William S. Ayer of Alaska Air Group Appointed to Puget Energy and Puget Sound Energy Boards

Business Wire, Dec 20, 2004

BELLEVUE, Wash. -- William S. Ayer, chairman and chief executive officer of Seattle-based Alaska Air Group, has been named an independent member of the Boards of Directors of Puget Energy (NYSE:PSD) and its wholly owned utility subsidiary Puget Sound Energy effective January 12, 2005.

"Bill's long and distinguished career with Alaska Air Group, one of the Northwest's premier companies, makes him a great fit for Puget Energy's board," said Stephen P. Reynolds, Puget Energy President and Chief Executive Officer. "With his corporation headquartered in our utility's service territory, Bill is familiar with our business. And, his vast experience in running a capital intensive business will be highly valuable in guiding Puget Energy's strategies in the capital markets."

Ayer has been chairman and chief executive officer of Alaska Air Group, the parent company of Alaska Airlines and Horizon Air, since May 2003. He began his career at the company more than 20 years ago and has held executive positions in operations, customer service, marketing and planning.

"It's a privilege for me to take on a role with another company that is a cornerstone of the Northwest economy," Ayer said. "Puget Energy, Puget Sound Energy and Alaska Air Group share some of the same business challenges and opportunities in the finance and customer service areas as well as dealing with volatile energy markets. It will be a rewarding challenge to join this board team," Ayer added.

Ayer, active in several industry and community organizations, serves on the boards of Angel Flight., the Museum of Flight in Seattle, the Alaska Airlines Foundation and the Advisory Board of the University of Washington Business School.