POWERGRAMS

TRAINING Early reviews of the daylong training session "Civil Treatment for Leaders" indicate the mandatory seminar for all Alabama Power managers and supervisors is well worth the effort. "I thoroughly enjoyed the training," said Southern Division Sales Manager Jennifer Pemberton. "We covered a wealth of information but the time passed very quickly." Pemberton said she was able to use what she learned immediately upon returning to her job. Had the training been optional, she doubts she would have taken the time out of her hectic schedule to attend. "Now I can't imagine not having attended," she said. "It gave me a fresh perspective on how my behaviors as a leader – at work and away from work – are perceived by others, and how they impact my employees, my job, my family, Alabama Power Company and our shareholders. The training raised the bar for me as a leader, as I am now incredibly aware that many of the things I have learned through the years from great managers before me are no longer acceptable or applicable in today's work environment." Compliance Director Jim Turner said Alabama Power routinely provides training regarding company policies but it has been many years since managers and supervisors received formal instruction on civil treatment. The Management Council recently made a commitment to the training, not because of regulatory or legal issues, but because the members believe that to maintain a culture of success, managers need to periodically refresh their understanding of key expectations and how they should address behaviors that are inconsistent with expectations. The training covers a range of subjects including commitment to SouthernStyle and the Code of Ethics, and key company policies related to harassment, discrimination, performance management and duty to act. "Fundamentally, the training will help all of us understand what we, as leaders, need to do to ensure that all employees are treated fairly and with respect," said Chairman, President and CEO Mark Crosswhite. The customized, instructor-led classes are being conducted through the end of the year at Alabama Power facilities statewide. In an effort to foster discussion and interaction, each session is limited to 25 employees. With about 1,000 managers and supervisors required to complete the training, Turner said it is important that all employees honor their commitment to attend once registered. "Since Southern Style is at the center of what we do and who we are, this training opportunity will provide you with the tools necessary so that we, as leaders, know how to address behaviors that are not consistent with the company's expectations," Risk Services Director Glenn Shaull said after attending the class. "This will ensure we are equipped to treat each other fairly and with respect. It is well worth the time investment." Employees may register for a specific session by logging onto LearningSOurce. For more information, contact Regina Thompson at 8-257-3699. "We are blessed. Our company provides us with the very best tools needed to do our jobs well," said Pemberton. "This training is one of those tools. If you leave this training empty-handed, it's only because you chose to. I encourage participants to put the phones and email away and focus." Managers, supervisors getting refresher course on expectations 2 Alabama's lakes and streams are the topic of the new exhibit running through Nov. 13 in the Alabama Power Archives Museum in Birmingham. ON THE COVER: 'Civil Treatment for Leaders' classes continue through end of year. Photo by Christopher Jones

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