Donald E. Bowles is a member of the board of directors of the Bluegrass Institute for Public Policy Solutions.

Bowles has been involved in Kentucky’s coal industry for more than four decades, including 32 years as owner and president of Charolais Corp. in Madisonville, an operation that mines an average of 2 million tons of coal annually in western Kentucky. Bowles was recognized as “Coal Miner of the Year” by the Western Kentucky Coal Association.

He also has served on the boards of a number of organizations, including: Associated Industries of Kentucky, the Western Regional Center for Emerging Technology, the Kentucky Energy Policy Advisory Board, the Kentucky Export Resource Authority, the Hopkins County Chapter of the American Red Cross and the Hopkins County Toy Drive.

Bowles also served on Gov. Ernie Fletcher’s Blue Ribbon Commission on Efficiency in State Government.

Bowles currently is involved in drag racing on the National Motorsports Racing Association and National Motorclub of America Inc. circuits. He is working with Ford Motor Co. to test engine performance and capabilities. The project includes utilizing “E85” fuel in racecars to show the general public the proven benefits of alternative fuels.