Executive Director

Jill Balaster serves as the Director of Operations & Communications at the Arkansas Advanced Energy Association. With a wealth of expertise and a profound commitment to excellence, she is a driving force behind the organization's operational efficiency and communication strategy.

As a graduate of Arkansas Tech University with a Master of Arts in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages and a Bachelor of Arts in Spanish, Jill's educational foundation is rooted in multicultural understanding and linguistic proficiency. Her academic background has set the stage for her multifaceted approach to operations and communication.

Jill also brings a wealth of experience from her previous role as President of a startup solar development company based in Arkansas, where she served from January 2021 to April 2023. In this capacity, she established and implemented a robust operational infrastructure by introducing project management tools, fostering effective communication, and streamlining project timelines, which resulted in increased operational efficiency and overall productivity. Jill's leadership extended to developing and implementing comprehensive human resources policies, including the creation of an Employee Handbook, which not only ensured legal compliance but also enhanced employee engagement and organizational efficiency. Her collaborative efforts in drafting a comprehensive business plan paved the way for long-term company goals and growth initiatives, aligning the leadership team and cultivating a culture of accountability. Jill's commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion policies led to a remarkable 200% growth in the workforce within two years.

In her role at the Arkansas Advanced Energy Association, Jill has made a significant impact on the organization in her first month. Her dynamic approach to enhancing operational efficiency and communication strategies has been instrumental in driving the mission of the association. Jill's innovative strategies and keen insights have already begun to yield results, setting the stage for a more streamlined and productive environment. She is dedicated to fostering an atmosphere of inclusivity and open communication, ensuring the association's continued growth and success. Jill also aspires to broaden the scope of her influence, leveraging her background to enhance the association's impact in the realm of advanced energy and beyond.

Beyond her professional achievements, Jill is an advocate for health and fitness, a travel enthusiast, a talented photographer, and a dedicated gardener who loves spending time with her husband and cats. She and her husband are currently restoring a live-aboard sailboat with the dream of traveling the world. Her wide array of interests reflects her multifaceted personality and her ability to engage with diverse audiences.

In her position as the Director of Operations & Communications at the Arkansas Advanced Energy Association, Jill Balaster embodies the spirit of innovation, inclusivity, and positive impact. Her diverse experiences and unwavering commitment to excellence make her an invaluable asset to the organization.