Electrical and industrial supplies distributor Border States has hired Charlie Hoertz as VP Digital Transformation.

The Fargo, ND-based company shared on its website that in this newly-created role, Hoertz will lead Border States’ enterprise-wide digital strategy, accelerating value creation through technology, data and process modernization. Through the use of advanced technologies, including AI tools, process automation, data analytics and IoT, Hoertz will spearhead the organization’s efforts to increase efficiency and elevate experiences for employee-owners, customers and vendors.

“The pace of change driven by technology and AI is unprecedented, and success requires bold leadership and a clear vision,” Border States Chief Information Officer Jason Stein said in Jan. 13 news release. “Charlie’s appointment as VP Digital Transformation reflects Border States’ commitment to accelerating innovation and creating measurable value for our customers, employee-owners and partners. This role will help us harness advanced technologies to modernize processes, unlock insights and deliver exceptional experiences across the enterprise.”

Hoertz joins Border States with more than 15 years of global experience leading digital transformation. He has held previous roles as a Senior Advisory Board Member for a European private equity firm and as a Chief Digital Officer, with experience spanning manufacturing, supply chain and commercial functions.

Hoertz holds a bachelor’s degree from Ohio State University and a master’s degree in business administration (MBA) from Louisiana State University. He completed MIT’s two-year Advanced Management Program and teaches digital transformation in the MBA program at Ohio State’s Fisher College of Business.

“Transformation requires more than a roadmap — it demands a strong corporate identity and values that guide the journey,” Hoertz said. “Border States is well positioned for what comes next, and I’m honored to help drive it.”

Border States was No. 7 on MDM’s 2025 Top Distributors List for Electrical/Data/Security. Supplying products and services to construction, industrial and utility customers, the company had more than 3,500 employee-owners across 31 states.