Leaders
YEP’s leaders are members who saw an opportunity to make a difference—stepping up to guide the organization while growing as leaders themselves.
To contact all the organization’s leaders, email Leadership@yeperie.org
Reach out to express your interest in becoming a leader!
Executive Board Members
Vice President - Marcus A Jacobs
Marcus, a native of Pittsburgh’s Mt. Washington neighborhood, moved to Erie to attend Penn State Behrend, where he earned dual Bachelor of Science degrees in Business Economics and International Business, along with a Master’s in Project Management.
He currently serves as the Borough Manager of Wesleyville in Erie County and is eager to contribute to the YEP Board. Marcus is passionate about YEP’s mission of uniting and empowering young professionals in the Erie region, recognizing its positive impact on the local community.
In his free time, Marcus enjoys camping and hiking in the great outdoors.
President - Harland Ashby
Harland was born in West Springfield MA but spent most of his life in Houston TX. Harland graduated from Texas A&M in 2019 with a degree in Mechanical Engineering. Harland then joined Wabtec’s (GE Transportation) Operational Management Leadership Program which brought him to Erie in 2021. Harland is currently the Lead Additive Application Engineer at Wabtec. When he is not at work, Harland is keeping the hills safe as part of the Ski Patrol at Peak’n Peak. In the summer, Harland likes to hike, bike, swim, kayak, and scuba dive!
Treasurer - Matthew Elder
Matthew was born and raised in Erie, PA. He attended Clemson University in South Carolina graduating with a Bachelor’s of Science degree in Supply Chain Management with a minor in Economics. Matthew is currently the Postmaster at the Harborcreek Post Office. In his free time he enjoys cooking and exploring Erie with his dog, a black lab named Vanish.
Secretary - Amber Schultz
William Postema serves as Executive Secretary & Chief Governance Officer (ES & CGO) for Young Erie Professionals. In this role, he supports YEP’s Board of Directors and Executive Committee by ensuring strong governance practices, maintaining bylaws, and overseeing internal communication and documentation across all standing committees.
William first joined YEP leadership in 2024 as Vice Chair of the Recreation & Wellness Committee before serving as Chair of the Social Committee. He has played a key role in expanding community programming, strengthening cross-committee collaboration, and developing onboarding infrastructure for future leaders.
Outside of YEP, William brings five years of experience in high-volume operations with Walmart and is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration: Supply Chain Management at the University of Arkansas. He currently works with Apple as part of their prestigious Capstone Program, contributing to strategic projects in U.S. Education Operations and Consumer Digital Strategy.
He continues to champion structure, strategy & connection throughout his work in both nonprofit and corporate settings.
Committee Board Members
Social Committee Chair - William Postema
Haile Ferris brings over five years of experience in retail operations, having excelled in leadership roles such as Digital Team Lead and Stocking 1 Team Lead. With a proven track record of managing teams of over 100 associates, Haile thrives on driving sales, fostering positive customer experiences, and creating efficient operational processes.
Outside of work, Haile is an avid outdoor enthusiast who enjoys snowboarding and mountain biking. Passionate about giving back, she also dedicates her time to volunteering and making a positive impact in her community. She looks forward to continuing to give back and making a positive impact in her community.
Growth & Success Committee Chair - Drake Karges
Drayke Karges is a dynamic professional serving as the Chair of the Growth and Success Committee at Young Erie Professionals, a position in which they are committed to fostering the professional development and success of young talents in the Erie community. Simultaneously, Drayke excels in their role as a District Sales Coordinator for Aflac Insurance, where they specialize in collaborating with business owners, offering expert advice and tailored insurance solutions. With a passion for networking and community engagement, Drayke has become a driving force behind numerous impactful initiatives, bridging connections between professionals and local businesses. Their dedication and leadership were recognized in 2022 when they received the prestigious Chamber Champion of the Year award from the Erie Regional Chamber and Growth Partnership. This accolade is a testament to Drayke’s unwavering commitment to the growth and prosperity of the Erie region.
Civic and Community Engagement Committee Chair - Emerson Bannon
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Marketing Committee Chair - OPEN
**Your Information Here**
This Committee position is currently open, this could be your profile box! Email Leadership@yeperie.org and express your interest.
Membership Committee Chair - OPEN
Born and raised in Southern California, Chris Rosato Jr. fell in love with Northwestern Pennsylvania during his time at Edinboro University and decided to make it his home. His educational and professional experience includes marketing, public relations, live events operations, sports broadcasting and public address announcing (catch him periodically on the mic at an Erie SeaWolves game!).
He is currently the General Manager of ASCEND Erie. When not on a wall, he can usually be found taking in a baseball game, playing board games with friends, or volunteering as a high school sports official. He lives with a 12-year-old Scottish Terrier named Murphy who loves to hike, kayak and go on climbing trips.
Recreation & Wellness Committee Chair - Abby Potter
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Strategic Roles
Partnerships
A proud Erie native, Mike Williams has built his career at Widget Financial, where he began as an intern and now serves as the Vice President of Marketing. Throughout his journey, Mike has remained deeply committed to making a positive impact in the community he calls home.
His passion for service has led him to volunteer with organizations such as the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, Walk to End Alzheimer’s, L’Arche Erie, and the EHCA Gatsby Committee. Whether it’s through professional or volunteer work, Mike is dedicated to helping Erie thrive.
Outside the office, you’ll find Mike smoking meats, cheering on his son at baseball games, hitting the golf course, or enjoying the many events and experiences that make Erie such a special place to live.
Mike is excited to bring his passion for partnership and community building to his new role as YEP’s Head of Strategic & Corporate Partnerships. He looks forward to helping grow our impact, one connection at a time.