Beacon Consulting Solutions

Beacon Consulting Solutions leverages the combined experience of over 50 years of experience in the electric cooperative industry to provide strategic guidance and innovative solutions.  With a diverse background encompassing Accounting, Finance, Nonprofits, Government, Education, Healthcare, Regulatory Affairs, and Power Supply, we specialize in Strategic Planning and Board Governance to help organizations navigate complex challenges and achieve sustainable growth. Our principled and savvy approach ensures that our clients receive tailored support to meet their unique needs. 

Melissa Watts, President & CEO

Melissa Watts is a seasoned financial professional and CPA with a wealth of experience in the electric cooperative sector. With a strong educational background and numerous industry specific certifications, she brings expertise in financial management, executive leadership, governance, and strategic planning.

Throughout her career, Melissa has demonstrated a commitment to fostering collaboration and transparency within organizations. She has been recognized by boards for her ability to diplomatically address tough subjects, head-on, while maintaining her professionalism.

Alena Brandenberger, Senior Financial Consultant

With deep agricultural roots and decades of executive leadership – as an Electric Cooperative CFO and CEO, and through serving on various Executive Boards/Committees within rural areas – Alena provides grounded, results focused consulting aligned with cooperative principles and member-owner values. Alena translates complex financial information into clear, actionable insight for those that are familiar with cash-based accounting. Her agricultural background is foundational, informing practical solutions sensitive to critical rural variables such as seasonal cash flow pressures, workforce challenges, and the need for reliable, cost-effective electric service. She also brings extensive expertise in cooperative financial reporting, policy development, organizational structuring, records management, job descriptions, and performance evaluations to strengthen governance and operational effectiveness.

Monica Bullock, HR Consultant

Monica Bullock is a Human Resources professional with over 7 years experiencespanning across core HR functions in a cooperative setting. She has had the opportunity to shape meaningful moments across the employee journey, from helping build onboarding experiences that set new employees on a successful path, to guiding employees through benefits decisions with understanding and care. She has also worked closely with leadership, serving as a trusted partner, and ensuring employee-centered practices are aligned with the organization’s goals. Monica believes Human Resources is about relationships, communication, and creating an environment where both the organization and the employees can thrive. She is committed to elevating the employee experience, designing processes and implementing tools that help employees navigate with ease while fostering a culture of well-being. At the heart of her work is a passion for helping people to feel informed, supported, and cared for throughout their employment journey. Monica is currently preparing to sit for the SHRMCP exam in 2026, further deepening her commitment to professional growth and excellence in the HR field.