Networking through associationsI’m a big believer in associations. Not only do I work for an association but I’m also a member in different associations. One of these memberships is the American Association of Blacks in Energy (AABE). AABE is dedicated to ensure the input of African-Americans and other minorities into the discussions and developments of energy policies regulations, research and development technologies, and environmental issues.
An Association like AABE allows me to grow both as an individual and as a professional. They offer many benefits that keep me engaged in relevant news to our industry, provide leadership opportunities, and allow me to network with the best and brightest in the energy industry. The networking opportunities are one of the reasons why I choose to be a member.
Officers Roundtable Discussion moderated by Marsha Sampson Johnson, Sr. Vice President Human Resources & Chief Diversity Officer, Southern Company. The panel consisted of Jeff Lyash, Chief Executive Officer and President, Progress Energy; Carl English, Chief Operating Officer, American Electric Power; Doug Foshee, Chief Executive Officer and President, El Paso Corporation; Joe Laymon, Vice President, Human Resources, Chevron CorporationNisource; and Robert Skaggs, Jr., President and Chief Executive Officer
Last month, I went to AABE’s 32nd annual conference “Sustainable Energy for a New Economy” that was held at the Rosen Shingle Creek Hotel in Orlando, Florida. The conference was attended by approximately 350 professionals from energy companies. The event featured energy and environmental discussions, a clean vehicle showcase, an entrepreneurs’ forum, and a job fair. There were also scholarship and young adult programs. Session topics included: The Obama Economic Stimulus Plan, job creation, climate change and energy conservation.
I was very pleased by the involvement of the utility company executives that attended the conference. One guest panelist included the AGA’s First Vice Chair Bob Skaggs of NiSource, Doug Foshee CEO and President of El Paso Corporation, and David Ratcliffe Chairman, EEI President and CEO of the Southern Company. Their open dialogue regarding the issues their companies face in today’s challenging economy was very impressive. They expressed their perspectives on issues like diversity within their companies and steps they have taken or plan to take to improve in that area.
Conferences like this allow companies to address and look into more strategic ways to improve their organization when recruiting talent. The conference was a great opportunity to connect with other energy professionals from different aspects of the industry. Organizations allow their employees to attend because of the value it brings to their employees and shows the organization’s supportive role in their career development.
Right after a panel session discussion has finished Robert Skaggs, Jr., President and Chief Executive Officer, Nisource & Jimmy Staton, Executive Vice President & Group CEO, Nisource stop to take a photo with AABE members that participated in the session.
Are you using your association to help find these types of networking opportunities? How do you network?
Cyla,
Thanks for the comments I firmly believe stories like this one should be shared with others to show the true value of the conference.
Aaron
Bob,
It was a pleasure meeting you as well and thank you for your kind thoughts.
Aaron
Aaron,
Great article. I, too, share the sendiments spoken of what a very inspiring organization AABE is. It is so important that people learn and understand the effects of change the utility industry can and will have on their lives. This organization, AABE, not only allows for networking within the industry, but more importantly, provides information for us to share with our peers and communities. Thank you taking the time to share your thoughts with your peers and communities. I am a member of the Philadelphia chapter and we look forward to hosting an AABE conference again in the future.
Dave
Aaron,
Job well done! I was not able to attend the conference this year but enjoyed your perspective and enthusiasm for the conference. I know exactly what you mean. It is always great to attend the AABE National conferences and as a past president of the Gulf Coast Chapter, I was truly happy that several of our newest members were able to attend and they share the same outlook as you. Keep updating on AABE and other organizations that focus on energy policies and technologies; it’s a great story that should always be shared with others!
Take Care,
Cyla
Aaron, thanks for your coverage and positive comments on AABE and my participation at the recent National Conference.
It was great meeting you, and learning of your work at AGA. We value your many contributions, and your interest in ongoing development and growth – - both professionally and personally.
Thanks for sharing the benefits of joining AABE. I’ve been a member of this organization for four years. I am proud that our CEO, Bob Skaggs is a strong supporter of the organziation and the employees of NiSource.
Darnita,
I am very glad to hear you have strong support within your organization especially when the CEO understands the values it begins to the company and there employees.
Thanks
Aaron
Aaron,
Great story! You provide an interesting prospective on the value of associations specifically AABE. Not only is AABE great for networking but the information provided on a variety of energy issues especially those that impact minorities communities is critical to the success of this nation.
Thanks for sharing your viewpoint.
Kevin
Kevin,
I agree exactly that the information provided during such conferences as this one are very key in the development of these communities.
Thanks
Aaron
Aaron,
Kudos on your enthusiam about the AABE National Conference. As a founding member of the North Carolina Chapter and past Chapter President, I appreciate your involvement and recognition of the value of the Association. The national conference is one of my primay sources of information and provides one of the best opportunities for relationship building. In turn, these relationships have resulted in business development opportunities. I have met more C-level executives in a one-on-one setting at the national conference than any other conference I attend. Additionally, I am inspired by the diverse representation of the best talent in the energy industry. My inaugural session on Alternative Energy and Renewables happened at the 30th Anniversary conference in DC and it’s been a hit since then. Keep spreading the good news!
Carl,
Thanks for your thoughts, and I look to keep expressing the value of organization’s such as AABE and the benefiits that come along with attending there conferences.
Sounds like a good time. I am sorry I missed it. Next year I, and IEEE-USA, hope to join you.
Russ,
It really was a great conference, but I look forward to seeing you next year in Columbus, Ohio