Gov. Greg Gianforte appointed Kirk Bushman of Billings to the Montana Public Service Commission, filling the District 2 seat on a temporary basis. Bushman, who holds a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering technology from Montana State University, brings more than 30 years of experience in industrial engineering to the role.

Bushman previously served on the Public Service Commission and chaired hearings covering electric and natural gas rates, consumer complaints, railroad safety, and pipeline easements. “Kirk brings decades of engineering experience and a strong understanding of the important work of the Public Service Commission,” Gianforte told NBC Montana.

The appointment reflects the governor’s earlier push to reshape the commission. Gianforte’s energy task force has advocated for an appointed Public Service Commission rather than one elected by the legislature, arguing that technical expertise should guide utility regulation in Montana.

The Public Service Commission regulates utilities, railroads, and other industries affecting Montana consumers. The appointment puts Bushman’s industrial engineering background directly into decisions on energy rates and infrastructure projects across the state.