English (United States)
If you’ve been to a high school football game in Nebraska, you may have seen me on the field, but not in pads. I’ve refereed high school football for more than 30 years. It’s one of many ways I stay involved locally in the communities we serve. I’ve also had the privilege of working with Scouting America, helping young people build character and confidence.
Although far from the world of energy, these experiences shape how I lead. They remind me that leadership is about presence, humility and service. These are values we bring to our work at NPPD. In recent years, the energy industry has seen dramatic change. New technology, explosive load growth and major economic developments – particularly around data centers, artificial intelligence (AI), ag tech and manufacturing – are transforming how and where power is used. The future will demand more from all of us. Fortunately, we’ve been proactive in preparing by investing in the buildout of new generation resources to meet growing demand and by strengthening our customer relationships, so we’re aligned on how to deliver the most value through the electricity we provide. These efforts help ensure we’re staying one step ahead of the pace of change, together.
Despite being one of the largest public power entities in the nation, NPPD is incredibly nimble. Our teammates live in the communities we serve and want to see their neighbors, friends and families thrive. Whether it’s using drones for safer, more efficient power line maintenance or exploring alternative and evolving fuel options, we’re focused on finding smart, practical ways to better serve Nebraskans. This is especially true in rural areas, where reliable, affordable electricity helps create high quality jobs, more opportunities and accelerated economic growth.
We also recognize that to lead well here at home, we need to be engaged nationally. That’s why I’m a board member for organizations like the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI), the American Public Power Association, the Large Public Power Council, the Nuclear Energy Institute, and the Electricity Subsector Coordinating Council. These groups give public power a seat at the table as policies are made and technologies are tested, ensuring Nebraska’s voice is heard and our customers benefit from the latest knowledge and resources.
One particular new EPRI-related endeavor NPPD is participating in is their Open Power Artificial Intelligence Consortium, which is designed to create an ecosystem for participants to identify, develop, validate and deploy AI solutions to transform the electric sector.
Equally committed to our cause are numerous NPPD teammates. These folks are experienced subject matter experts who are engaged regionally and nationally to shape things like the energy market in which we buy and sell power, the future of nuclear power and drivers to industry excellence. Countless teammates are involved in industry organizations and initiatives focused on important topics like cyber security, legislature, information technology, the environment and workforce development.
Our teammates are also local volunteers in numerous capacities that benefit our hometowns. All these leadership roles provide a mix of national insight and local heart to help NPPD make smart, balanced decisions. We’re not out to be flashy. We don’t chase the latest trend just to say we did. We are absolutely committed to staying on the leading edge of countless industry trends and topics to continue delivering real, lasting value to the people we serve.
Ultimately, our goal is simple: to gain essential knowledge through partnerships and do the hard work behind the scenes so you, your family and your community can keep moving forward with your passions and ambitions. That’s the power of public power, and it’s a responsibility we are proud to honor.
