In accordance with the East County Schools (ECS) Federal Credit Union Bylaws, a Nominating Committee is appointed by the Chair of the volunteer Board of Directors to nominate at least one member for each vacancy for which an election is being held.

In addition to the slate of candidates presented by the Nominating Committee, nominations may also be made by petition signed by one percent of the membership, with a minimum of 20 members and a maximum of 500 members.

Each nominee by petition must be 18 years of age or older, a member in good standing, and must submit a brief statement of qualifications and biographical information with the signed petition. The nominee must also include a statement indicating they are agreeable to the nomination and willing to serve if elected.

Our Bylaws further state that when there is only one nominee for each position to be filled, the election will not be conducted by ballot and nominations will not be accepted from the floor.

2026 Election

Jim Custeau

Nearly 50 years ago, I joined ECS Federal Credit Union while teaching at Helix Charter High School, and since then, I have dedicated my career to serving the educational community of East County.

As the founding Instructor and Coordinator of the Automotive Technology Program at Cuyamaca College, I spent 33 years at the college advancing technical education and supporting students’ success. 

My leadership experience includes serving as President of the Cuyamaca College Faculty Senate, President of the Spring Valley Kiwanis, Chair of the Spring Valley Community Planning Group, and President of the California Automotive Teachers Association. I have also served as Interim Dean at both Cuyamaca and Grossmont Colleges, collaborating with business and education leaders to strengthen our community.

I am passionate about helping ECS innovate and expand its services, ensuring we remain a trusted partner for our members. I will work diligently to represent our members’ interests and help guide our credit union toward a strong and sustainable future.

Annual Meeting of the Membership

The ECS Annual Meeting of the Membership will be held both in person at the El Cajon Main Branch and via Microsoft Teams, on Wednesday, February 18, 2026 at 5:15 PM Pacific Standard Time.