It gives me great joy to work with a team to develop a vision, execute well and, through effective collaboration, reach big goals together.
Why do you believe honoring achievement is important?
In honoring the achievements of others, we get to see examples of success — examples that inspire ideas and greatness in others. Many STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) fields have been traditionally dominated by men. Today, in large part because of recognizing and uplifting women breaking barriers in these roles, that is changing. Now, women are assuming leadership positions in every one of these fields. If we continue to honor achievement, we will continue to inspire others to pursue opportunities that may seem out of reach.
Inspiring people to reach higher is critical to the success of our business community. Arizona’s economic future is dependent on a skilled workforce that can fill the jobs of tomorrow. With more young people from diverse backgrounds skilled and inspired by the careers ahead, we’ll be able to fill those jobs and power another generation of economic development.
What insights have you gained in your career that would inspire others?
I’ve learned that you can never stop growing and learning. This applies in many areas. For example, one must grow one’s skills to get further in one’s career. As an engineer, I have had to take certifications and additional classes to keep up with changing technologies.
It also applies to softer skills like building relationships. This is not something everyone knows from the outset. It requires taking cues from others, listening to the feedback you get from managers and other leaders in your circle, and generally being curious about others.
To keep growing and learning, I encourage others to adopt a growth mindset. By recognizing that anyone — yourself included — is capable of growth with enough focus and determination, you can be comfortable getting uncomfortable. That’s where the best learning happens!
What can we do — now — to make a difference for young people/women in Arizona?
My love of math, which led me to an engineering career, was inspired by my father. I think of that often because it had an indelible impact on my life. It was not a traditional career path for women in my generation, and, without him helping me see how I could excel in a STEM field, I’m not sure I would have been as confident going into a career like mine.
I believe that we can do the same by mentoring young people and women of all ages. If we can encourage the next generation, and those who may be underrepresented, we can help everyone achieve anything they set their mind to. We also need to help them through the obstacles they encounter, with ongoing mentorship and support. In doing so, we’ll make a massive difference, building toward a world where everyone has the means to succeed in life.
In A Few Words
- What was the last course, certification or training you took to improve yourself professionally? I was recently nominated for, and will soon complete, a Leadership Development training at SRP. I was one of 30 leaders selected and am excited for the opportunity to grow my skills in this area.
- What would you say is a single characteristic OTHERS might attribute to you that defines your success? Positive
- What is the one thing you feel you could work on professionally to be a greater success? Networking
- What is the one professional skill you have that has gotten you where you are today? Tenacity
- What is the single greatest issue facing Arizona today? Protecting our water supply to balance Arizona’s growth and natural beauty.
About Me
As the director of Power Delivery Engineering for Salt River Project, I lead a team responsible for providing engineering and testing to help get electricity from generation to our customers. This position allows me to utilize my diverse background in engineering, project management, marketing and community service. As a native Phoenician, I have enjoyed making the Valley a better place through both my professional endeavors and my volunteer work, such as my role on the Salvation Army Advisory Board.
Kim Humphrey, PE is Director of Power Delivery Engineering at Salt River Project.
