INDUSTRY FOCUS
differently.
“ The ones who encouraged me to ask questions, gave me opportunities to try something new, and supported my initiatives are the people who helped me get where I am today,” she added.“ But I’ m also thankful for the more challenging experiences that showed me what not to do. I’ ve learned something from every person I’ ve worked for— sometimes about the kind of leader I want to be, and sometimes about the kind I don’ t.”
Bell expresses similar beliefs about the misconceptions in the industry regarding the“ need” for technical knowledge before entering the space.
“ Of course the industry needs engineering and technical expertise, but it also needs marketing, finance, HR, supply chain, sales, communications, product management, and leadership,” she said.“ You don’ t have to come into the industry knowing everything. You just need to be willing to learn, ask questions, and understand how your skills can contribute.”
Meaghan Morgan
Meaghan Morgan, business analyst II at Nashville Electric Service( NES), started her career as an administrative assistant to the chief information officer 12 years ago, transitioning to a procurement assistant, before landing in fleet as a business analyst five years ago.
Working for NES, the 11th-largest publicly owned electric utility company in the nation with approximately 650 Class 1 to 9 assets, has given Morgan experience in an organization that plays an important role in her community. Over the years, she has also had the opportunity to learn from and grow under strong leadership.
“ Our Safety Engineer & Transportation Manager, Mark Booker, has had the biggest influence on my career here, encouraging my initiative and frequently challenging me with opportunities to broaden my skill set,” she explained.“ He’ s the most open-minded and forward-thinking manager I’ ve ever had the pleasure of working for.”
Morgan reflects that at the beginning of her career, there was less of a disparity between the genders. On the administrative side, she notes that there was a more equal balance.
“ Now in fleet, I’ m one of only two women in the department, something that is not uncommon in our industry, but I feel fortunate I’ ve never been made to feel as though my contributions or my place here are in question,” she emphasized.
As the industry continues to change, Morgan points to organizations that are helping create more opportunities for women.
12 l September-October 2026