WOMEN TO WATCH
2021

Barbara Sugg

President and CEO
Southwest Power Pool

Southwest Power Pool is a regional transmission organization that oversees the bulk electric grid and wholesale energy market on behalf of utilities and transmission companies across 14 states. I was elected to the president and CEO position in early 2020 having served over 30 years in the electric utility industry, primarily focused on information technology and cybersecurity. I am blessed to lead an extraordinary group of highly skilled professionals, working with our member companies to responsibly and economically keep the lights on, today and in the future.

PRESSING QUESTIONS

How I knew this was my passion

I’ve always had an affinity for solving problems as well as helping others in need. My entire career has centered on creative problem solving and helping those around me to learn, engage and lead in being their best selves.

Biggest challenges in my career

Leading through the 2021 polar vortex has been my biggest career challenge, yet perhaps the most rewarding. Keeping the lights on was incredibly challenging, but we learned so much. We can never let a good crisis go to waste.

My first job and what it taught me

My first job after college taught me “how” to work. I underestimated the difficult adjustment from college life to working in my first full-time job. This job also taught me how to have confidence in both myself and my skills.

Nonprofit I wish more people knew about

Arkansas Hospice brings peace and comfort to patients and families at the end of life. An advocate for “end of life” care, this organization brings support to terminally ill patients including veterans, children and seniors. Everyone deserves to “die well.”

What keeps me coming back to my job every day

SPP has the best people and the best culture. We really are a big family that comes together to meet the challenges that our industry and our region face. We’re successful because we build solid relationships and promote collaboration.

One practice I use to maintain my mental health

I try to work out every single day, even if it’s as simple as walking the dog. Good physical health is essential for my mental health, and that requires time and focus on myself.

Best advice I ever received

“Have self-awareness and be true to yourself.” So often women get caught up in trying to be what they believe others expect them to be, and this leads to self-doubt, a lack of confidence, and often failure.

The one thing I wish people knew about my field

Solid leadership and communication skills are so much more valuable in my role than any technical skills I ever possessed. People often think the top leader must be the most knowledgeable. Instead, I surround myself with amazing, knowledgeable people.

The first thing I do to course-correct when I hit a wall

Ask for feedback! Surround yourself with people who will be honest with you, help you identify your blind spots and give you respectful feedback. We must always keep an open mind to self-improvement.

Best career moment so far

Being named president and CEO has by far been my best career moment. Entrusting me with the reins of an extremely successful company that has existed for nearly 80 years is humbling beyond words. I’m still pinching myself.

IT'S ALL IN THE DETAILS

Hometown

Lafayette, Louisiana

I can't start my day until

I exercise

Hobbies

Anything outdoors

Binge watch

Everything on HGTV

Last good read

“Becoming” by Michelle Obama

Favorite meal in town

Salmon salad at YaYa’s

Best recent local discovery

The great hiking trails nearby

Latest splurge

A Peloton bike

Most-used app

Outlook

Dream vacation

An on-the-water bungalow in Fiji

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