What is it like working in public power? What inspired you to work in this sector?
Working in public power is very rewarding. Each day, you have the satisfaction of knowing you’re making a meaningful difference, and you have the opportunity to see the results in the local community. It offers the chance to contribute to your community’s well-being and be a part of projects that directly impact people’s daily lives. These were the driving factors that led me to choose a career in public power.
Who in public power has inspired you? Is there another leader/mentor who inspires you? What type of leader do you aspire to be?
The dedication and commitment of my city coworkers inspires me. Their passion for serving the Hamilton community and their constant efforts to provide the best possible service motivates me to do the same. They approach their work each day with purpose and integrity and strive to make a positive difference in the community through their dedicated service.
I aim to be a leader who leads by example, demonstrating empathy and kindness while working hard to achieve our shared goals. It is important to me that I foster a collaborative environment where everyone’s opinions and viewpoints are respected and valued. By embracing unique perspectives and welcoming suggestions from others, I hope to lead a team that has a sense of ownership over their work and is dedicated to continuously enhancing the service we provide to the Hamilton community.
How do you approach your own professional development and career progression, and what sources do you lean on for that?
I aim to be a leader who leads by example, demonstrating empathy and kindness while working hard to achieve our shared goals. It is important to me that I foster a collaborative environment where everyone’s opinions and viewpoints are respected and valued. By embracing unique perspectives and welcoming suggestions from others, I hope to lead a team that has a sense of ownership over their work and is dedicated to continuously enhancing the service we provide to the Hamilton community.
What accomplishments in your role in public power give you the most satisfaction or make you proud of your work?
One aspect of my role that I am proud of is our ongoing effort to keep utility rates affordable for our community while ensuring safe and reliable utility services. Balancing customer rates with the financial needs of the system is challenging. However, the entire city team contributes to this goal through efforts like exploring processes and initiatives to increase efficiency and eliminate waste, better manage operational costs, pursue grant funding and more. These collective efforts help us maintain affordable utility rates for the community.
What advice would you give to someone who is just starting their career in public power or who is looking to progress in their career?
Pursue ongoing learning: Attend workshops and trainings, pursue relevant certifications or education, and do your best to stay up to date with industry trends and best practices. Finding a mentor who can provide guidance and share experiences is also a great way to foster continuous learning.
Be open to challenges: Taking on new responsibilities and opportunities outside of your comfort zone can facilitate both personal and professional growth.
Embrace a community first approach: Public power is built on the foundation of community service and the mission to deliver reliable and affordable utility services. It is essential to prioritize the community’s needs and expectations, using them as a guiding principle in the decision-making process.