Erik began his service on May 1, 2023, for a term that runs through April 30, 2029. Gov. Kim Reynolds also appointed Helland as Commission Chair through April 30, 2025.

Helland serves on several committees for the National Association of Regulatory Utility Commissioners (NARUC), including the Committee on Critical Infrastructure, NARUC’s Washington Action Program, the Committee on Electricity and the Advanced Nuclear State Collaborative.

He previously worked at the Iowa Public Employment Relations Board and served four years in the Iowa Legislature. He earned a bachelor’s degree in biochemistry and a law degree, both from Drake University.

He and his wife live in Des Moines with their three children.