Matt Vella earns Elm’s Leader of the Year Award

By T.J. Auclair

Congratulations are in order for longtime Elm IT Director Matt Vella.

At an off-site management meeting on December 12 at the Delaney House in Holyoke, MA, Matt became the second recipient of Elm’s Leader of the Year Award.

Elm Controller Tim Williams was the award’s inaugural recipient in 2023.

The award was created to recognize an employee who continually displays dedication and professionalism, key characteristics that Matt has displayed throughout his career at Elm.

“Being presented with the Leader of the Year Award at Elm Electrical fills me with gratitude,” Matt told us. “Elm employees are hardworking, dedicated and incredibly knowledgeable, and I’m fortunate to work alongside such an exceptional team. To be recognized for this award among my peers is a true honor, and I’m deeply thankful for this acknowledgment.”

Bob Bacon, who presented the award, had this to say about Matt: “Matt leads by the example he sets. He is technically skilled, service oriented and he has a can do attitude! He recognizes he owns the safety and security of our system and his team’s role is supporting the other business units. Who could ask for more?”

Tim Rzeszutek described Matt as the embodiment of leadership and noted how he’s constantly inspiring with his unwavering can-do attitude and exceptional dedication.

“As our IT Director, Matt doesn’t just meet expectations—he exceeds them, proving that true leadership lies in lifting others up while achieving greatness together,” Tim said. “His hard work, integrity, and passion shine through in everything he does, making a real and lasting impact on Elm and the people fortunate enough to work alongside him. Matt’s recognition as Leader of the Year is not just well-deserved—it’s a reflection of the extraordinary leader and person he is. Thank you, Matt, for all that you do and for showing us what excellence in leadership truly looks like. Congratulations!”

“Congratulations to Matt Vella on being named Leader of the Year! For over 20 years, Matt has delivered best-in-class support as our Director of IT, working tirelessly to ensure our IT infrastructure is 100% available and providing seamless support for Elm’s operations,” said Mike Holmberg. “He also manages our business systems, Microsoft suite of products, and all forms of digital communication, delivering top-tier business analytics and communication platforms that empower every Elm employee. Matt’s exceptional work ethic, dedication, and drive truly exemplify the Elm spirit, and we are proud to have him on our team. Well done, Matt!”

Keith Saltmarsh calls Matt an extraordinary leader who inspires and empowers everyone around him.

“He leads by example, demonstrating outstanding communication, unwavering support, and a clear vision for what Elm needs to be at the top of our game,” Keith said. “Matt’s integrity and dedication set the standard, and his pacesetting leadership style drives excellence in our technology and beyond. He’s always available, always willing to listen, and consistently delivers solutions that elevate the entire team. His ability to collaborate and innovate is nothing short of remarkable. Matt, thank you for your guidance, hard work, and unwavering commitment to our success. Congratulations on being named Leader of the Year—this recognition is so well-deserved!”