• Ask Your Network

  October (2021) Member Spotlight: Nadia Powell (El Paso Electric)

  Posted by Kevin Praet (Adm) on October 1, 2021 at 11:45 am

  Nadia Powell is an active UAI member and provides outstanding influence and contributions to the UAI community through any of our multiple channels, including, but not limited to engagement on UAI Connect, volunteering with UAI, involvement and/or leadership in monthly Community Conversations, and/or speaking at UAI events, plus so much.  As thanks, we are featuring her in the UAI Member Spotlight. Nadia has been a utility professional for over 18 years and has worked in regulatory and power generation.  She has a background in economics and engineering.

  
  Kevin: How did you get into the utility analytics industry?

  Member: I loved econometrics classes and know there is value in being able to predict future events. When my company asked me ‘what do you want to do’ I jumped at the chance to explore data and analytics!

   

  Kevin: What project have you enjoyed working on most in your career?

  Member: I recently gave up my position as the oversight manager of our remote, partner operated, nuclear plant to pursue data and analytics. I loved the nuclear industry! That experience taught me so much about disciplined thought processes, engaged collaboration and developing the right narrative. I knew nothing about nuclear or the nuclear industry when I started – after 10 years, I can tell you I still have much to learn!

   

  Kevin: What has been your biggest professional challenge and how did you work through it?

  Member: I have said it often – developing the framework for a data and analytics initiative has and continues to be the biggest professional challenge I have ever faced.  I read many papers on starting initiatives – they all say the same thing, you must get buy-in.  What I didn’t know is just how difficult that step is – particularly when you are not seen as the person that has much experience.  Dogged determination, a great staff and maintaining unwavering focus on the desired result keeps me moving forward.

   

  Kevin: If you could go back in time and give yourself one piece of advice before entering the utility analytics industry, what would it be?

  Member: Reach out to peer utilities, community business and on-line sources sooner. Some people are not responsive, or don’t want to share, but most do. Find supportive people early!

   

  Kevin: What would you like to talk to fellow colleagues and members about in UAI Connect? Or, what issues or topics would you like to see more discussions on in UAI Connect?

  Member: We are still in the very early stages of our analytics journey. I would like to know what an average size budget is for a data and analytics initiative and how much, if any, parts of an analytics project can be capitalized.  I would also like to gain consensus on how to evaluate analytics projects and the cost savings it brings.

   

  Kevin: Thank you so much for sharing with us and for being a highly engaged member of UAI! Do you have any final thoughts, ideas, or comments you would like to share with your fellow UAI members?

  Member: I want to thank Kim Wagie at APS for telling me about UAI. This is a great community of people, who have far reaching experience, and don’t mind all my questions!

  ——————————
  Kevin Praet
  Membership Coordinator
  Utility Analytics Institute (UAI)
  Boulder CO
  315-440-3033
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  Kevin Praet (Adm) replied 3 years, 1 month ago 1 Member · 0 Replies
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