POWERGRAMS

42 coincidentally both involved locked gates. On one occasion, Randall stopped at a builder's new home to check the electric load and was accidentally trapped in the backyard when the gate slammed shut behind her. Realizing she had forgotten her phone, she wasn't worried and simply "shimmied" over the fence. When it happened at another new home, Randall was luckier: She waved to a nearby subcontractor who came to her rescue by opening the gate. Randall said the use of electric products has greatly increased during her years in Marketing. "When I began, there were not as many builders who chose to use electric products. What I'm most proud of is that our team grew the percentage share of the market," Randall said. "I also appreciate the support and encouragement I have received from my managers and team members through the years. "In my opinion, we are just scratching the surface of the future of energy, and it will be exciting for me to see the new technology and how it will be marketed and brought to our customers," she noted. Another contribution that brings Randall great satisfaction was her role in 2001 as co-chairperson of Alabama Power's first GoodCents show home. The all-electric, energy-efficient house in Tuscaloosa was fully decorated and opened for tours. The proceeds were used to support Tuscaloosa schools. Shinstock said Randall's knowledge and experience is well-respected by Tuscaloosa-area builders. "In many cases, I had more than a business relationship with my builders. A lot of them are just good friends," Randall said. Todd Vick, co-owner of College Station Construction, said he knew he could always depend on Randall. "It was super nice having somebody like Brenda who understands the value of good service and is able to help us gain information and solve problems," Vick said. "Anytime I needed help, whether it was an issue with a meter, a commercial account or engineering, she could answer my question or get me to the right person who could help me." After graduating from Samford University with a degree in interior design, the Decatur, Georgia, native married her husband, Wayne, and they made their home in Tuscaloosa and raised their two children, Kyle and Paige. In 1976, Randall began working at Alabama Power as a secretary in Risk Services, later moving to District Marketing, Power Delivery and Human Resources. She was executive secretary to several Western Division vice presidents before her promotion to market specialist. Randall is active in her community. She has served as chairperson of the Associates Council of the Homebuilders Association of Tuscaloosa and was selected as the chapter's Associate of the Year in 2013. As past president of the Arts and Humanities Council of West Alabama, Randall was involved in a campaign that raised $1.25 million to turn an old hardware store into the Dinah Washington Cultural Arts Center in Tuscaloosa. She was a longtime board member and past president of the Women's Division of the Tuscaloosa Chamber of Commerce, and a charter member of the Western Division Chapter of the Alabama Power Service Organization. "I love Tuscaloosa, and I love the people," Randall said. "I've always felt it's important to give back." With her retirement, Randall said she will relax for a few months before making any future plans. She is an avid University of Alabama football fan, has been in the stands wearing her "big, fancy" hat at the Kentucky Derby for over 30 years and loves to travel – all hobbies she plans to continue. "I'm excited about the next chapter of my life and whatever God puts in my path to do," Randall said. "I know I would like to remain active, whether it means volunteering in the community or becoming more active in my church, Calvary Baptist. I'm leaving all the doors open." Randall, at right, with daughter Paige behind her and daughter-in-law Ellen at the recent Kentucky Derby. Randall at an APSO holiday function in the '90s.

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