POWERGRAMS

LEADERSHIP True Trailblazer Smith retires after 37-year career 'leaning in' When Donna Smith began her career at Alabama Power, she never would have considered herself a trailblazer. In fact, she accepted a job in the training department because she felt it would be a natural transition from her previous job as a teacher. "I have a master's degree in communications and education," Smith said. "So it just made sense to work in the training department." Her first assignment in 1976, writing a truck equipment manual, is worlds apart from the position she held before retiring, serving as the vice president of Human Resources and Ethics. Advancing that far is impressive, but couple that with the fact she did it during a time when women weren't widely recognized as management material. Not to mention 37 years ago Alabama Power wasn't just a man's world, it was an engineer's world. Add those factors and her career path isn't just impressive, it's extraordinary. But then again, according to those who know her best, so is Donna Smith. "Donna was leaning in when leaning in wasn't cool," said Birmingham Division Vice President Bobbie Knight, referring to the new catch-phrase for women in business. "She wasn't afraid to make choices and take a stand and I have always admired that about her." Smith admits that not all of her career choices were easy decisions. She spent time working in the Montgomery Division and said the job wasn't exactly what she had expected or hoped for, but it taught her valuable lessons. "I just remember feeling very isolated when I first went to Montgomery," Smith said. "I was in a new town with a new job and I didn't really know anyone. I didn't really think I was doing what I had expected to do in the job role and I was unsure of what to do next. I had to jump right in and begin developing relationships and by doing so, I learned things and met people who have helped me throughout my entire career." One relationship Smith is certain had a profound impact on her career is the one she has with CEO Charles McCrary. "I've worked with Charles for a number of years, but our relationship really strengthened when I went to work with him at Generation as the HR director," she said. "I've always felt like I knew where I stood with him and he's always had clear expectations. He is, without a doubt, the person who has taught me to be a strong leader." McCrary said Smith has always been a person who he wanted with him on the team. "She's always been able to make tough decisions and she's someone I can count on and trust." Smith's ability to foster great Smith joined company relationships stretches across Southern in 1976. Company. Many people throughout the system consider her a mentor. "Donna has always been someone I could lean on and ask for guidance," said Gulf Power HR Director Marty Tutchtone. "She was more than just a great manager; she made me see what kind of manager I wanted to be." Jean Lynch, Alabama Power HR team leader, said Smith has always been a strong leader. "I am one of many she encouraged to pursue my vision to the extent that it becomes a shared effort, a shared vision and a shared success." Although Smith's career at Alabama Power is coming to a Human Resources and Ethics Vice President Smith mentored many employees. close, she's not quite done with the business world. She serves on advisory boards and is excited about new opportunities to share her knowledge and experiences with others, especially women, after she retires. "I am proud that I have worked for the company this long and have been allowed to be viewed in the community as a representative of Alabama Power," she said. She is most looking forward to spending time with her parents, who are in good health and live in Tuscaloosa, and her grandchildren, who live in Birmingham. She joked that she "may even take some time to sleep late and head to the beach." "We spend a lot of time thinking about what we'll do in the future and planning for the next step," she said. "But, I've learned that it's just as important to take the time to participate in opportunities as they are presented and to continue to cultivate relationships. "I've been fortunate that I have had the chance to work with a great team of people and that's what I will miss the most." No matter what new opportunities Smith pursues, one thing is certain: She plans on blazing new trails for years to come. By Theresa Helms 3

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