Closed Circuit

Since joining Rocky Mountain region’s Eastern Colorado Maintenance Office in 2004, Jon Fredrickson has played a crucial role in maintaining and operating a wide range of WAPA-owned and General Services Administration-leased equipment.

Matt Grozs’ dedication, expertise and collaborative spirit have been invaluable to WAPA. As a Meter and Relay Electronic Integrated Systems Mechanic, he embodies the organization’s core values, fostering a curiosity and continuous learning culture.

On Dec. 18, 1992, the Western Area Power Administration’s Upper Great Plains region lost six team members in a plane crash. On the 32nd anniversary of the accident, WAPA employees remember their fellow teammates.

Barb Lynch has significantly contributed to WAPA through her exceptional expertise and leadership with a comprehensive understanding of WAPA’s Power Marketing, rates and repayment functions.

Anastasia Markel is a highly skilled Energy Management and Marketing Specialist for the Colorado River Storage Project region who consistently goes above and beyond her role and shows meticulous attention to detail and strong leadership.

Amy Blalock started her WAPA career in 2010 as part of the Student Career Experience Program. Over time, she has worked in various locations throughout the Rocky Mountain and Desert Southwest regions.

Colin Marquez has served as a valued member of WAPA since 2010, advancing through various leadership roles that reflect his dedication and contributions to achieving WAPA’s strategic goals.

Leah Shapiro has served WAPA for more than 12 years in various roles, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to its mission and people. She is a skilled storyteller, dedicated to sharing WAPA’s achievements and ensuring the organization presents itself in the best light.

Joe Mayfield is a respected leader at WAPA. As the Upper Great Plains Transmission Scheduling and Switching Manager, he is known for his strong technical skills and self-driven nature and has significantly leveraged his expertise in with the UGP Energy Management System.

Ben Blaquiere with WAPA’s Upper Great Plains region epitomizes the organization’s core values through dedication, hard work and humility. For over 38 years, he has been a cornerstone at the Miles City Converter Station in Montana, earning him a 2024 ESA recognition.

Desert Southwest recently consolidated the rates of its transmission systems, cutting administrative costs by simplifying the rates-making process.

Earlier this year, WAPA finalized and published its Final 2025 Olmsted Power Marketing Plan, which specifies the terms and conditions under which WAPA will market energy from the Olmsted Project for the next 30 years, beginning in October 2024.

On April 5, WAPA entered the California Independent System Operator’s WEIM.

October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month, a great time to brush up on best practices for digital and online safety.

DOE’s Chief Information Officer and her staff visited WAPA to discuss technology and cybersecurity priorities, including deep dives into mandates and reporting.

Marks Phelps is an IT supervisor at WAPA who is passionate about blacksmithing.

We evolve and cultivate our culture and work practices to improve employee engagement, productivity and well-being.

From telephone and telegraph lines to 14.4k modems and satellite internet, the speed at which humans push and pull information has exponentially increased with every passing decade.

Our dedicated Web Management team successfully modernized and migrated the site, significantly enhancing its functionality and aesthetic appeal.

Practicing cybersecurity basics can make a huge difference in protecting your information and systems that you use.

Cybersecurity Advisor Jim Ball was recognized for participating on the Clean Energy Corps’ Core Competency Interview Team.

WAPA’s CPI community of over 300 members drives efficiency through Lean Six Sigma, fostering knowledge sharing and professional development to enhance operations.

During National Wildfire Awareness Month in May, the Western Area Power Administration is increasing knowledge of wildfire risk and potential impacts.

WAPA’s Continuous Process Improvement (CPI) program is championed by two relatively new leaders who are driving CPI forward from a long history and solid foundation for successful process improvement.

Though articles and videos, employees share how they contribute to WAPA’s mission and strategy.

Nearly a year in the making, WAPA released its updated strategic plan Feb. 7, 2023.

The strategic plan is the successor to Strategic Roadmap 2024. It will guide WAPA through an evolving energy landscape for the next seven years.

You can help protect your home and loved ones through proactive planning and preparing to respond if a fire takes place.

Learn about updated Hazard Communication Standard changes, including new labeling, hazard classifications, and expanded Safety Data Sheets to enhance chemical safety at WAPA.

With so many safety topics to choose from, lets focus on a few that can make a big difference at work and our personal lives.

As a learning organization, we strive to improve our processes, identify areas of improvement, and seek feedback from our employees.

Recognizing and Avoiding Distraction both at home and in the workplace.

Fire can happen anywhere, and we all need to be prepared to protect ourselves

Every August, WAPA begins a five-month process to revise the Power System Safety Manual, an effort made successful by employee participation.

Safety committees help keep WAPA employees safe on a local and organizational basis. They also can use input and participation from you.

Safe spring cleaning. Spring is here, and for many it is a fitting time to organize and clean their homes and workspaces.

WAPA plans to make site visits a regular offering for new employees to get them quickly engaged and interested in our mission-critical work.

The Western Area Power Administration’s Rocky Mountain region added 12 new customers to its Loveland Area Projects portfolio, the most since 2004.

Originally built in the early 1950s, WAPA’s Flatiron-Valley 115-kV line has powered Loveland while the community built up around it. WAPA is updating structures for more clearance and better reliability.

AEPCO, Basin, CORE, Minnkota Power, Tri-State and United Power were selected as finalists for funding through the USDA’s New ERA program.

WAPA crews responded to four destroyed and damaged transmission towers structures Aug. 28 after an EF-2 tornado touched down in South Dakota, resulting in $1.3 million of damage.

Crews from the Western Area Power Administration’s Rocky Mountain region worked to upgrade a 115-kilovolt transmission line that feeds power to consumers throughout the Loveland, Colorado, area.

Path 15 public private partnership enhanced the transmission grid.

WAPA’s Cody Hotline School equips linemen with the technical skills for safe operations, combining hands-on training and industry expertise to enhance electrical safety.

WAPA collaborates to counter invasive smallmouth bass in the Grand Canyon, balancing environmental protection with the challenges of maintaining hydropower generation.

WAPA’s Desert Southwest region responded to a transformer fire caused by a lightning strike at its Test Track Substation near Maricopa, Arizona.

WAPA’s Procurement team organized a field trip to Casper, Wyoming, aimed at reconnecting their staff with field operations, emphasizing the critical support they provide to live missions.

With construction underway on WAPA’s soon-to-be-established Beale Substation, Sierra Nevada is paying particular attention to California’s native vernal pool fairy shrimp.

Discover the exciting new upgrades at WAPA’s Electric Power Training Center, featuring modern meeting spaces, enhanced training simulators and more.

Learn about the intricate world of WAPA’s Power System Dispatchers, who ensure the safe and reliable operation of the electric grid amid complex and challenging conditions.

Discover how WAPA’s record archival project is preserving history, optimizing space, and transitioning to digital records in a milestone effort.

With extreme weather events on the rise, WAPA has faced growing energy costs. Yet, as it has from its inception, the organization continues to adapt.

The Western Area Power Administration line crews are heading home after a week of repairing damaged transmission lines in southwestern Iowa.

During National Wildfire Awareness Month in May, the Western Area Power Administration is increasing knowledge of wildfire risk and potential impacts.

Carbon-free, cost-effective, reliable power that backs up renewables like wind and solar, built by U.S. companies and owned by U.S. utilities.

On April 25, WAPA’s Headquarters staff offered children a glimpse into the multifaceted world of WAPA to learn about its diverse roles and occupations.

The current supply chain environment has raised concerns regarding equipment acquisition.

Residents of several Western Nebraska communities were faced with a blistering cold front which evolved into severe winds and blizzard conditions, resulting in the loss of power for more than 12,000 customers and damage to transmission lines and towers.

WAPA’s Colorado River Storage Project initiated a new Inter-Regional Service Partnership Agreement.

WAPA convened its Annual Customer Meeting, continuing its tradition of fostering open dialogue and collaboration with its customers and stakeholders.

Regional Procurement teams recently met for a three-day event aimed at fostering collaboration, breaking down regional silos and enhancing organizational effectiveness.

A strong winter storm spread layers of ice across the Interstate 94 corridor from Bismarck to Grand Forks.

Desert Southwest recently consolidated the rates of its transmission systems, cutting administrative costs by simplifying the rates-making process.

We evolve and cultivate our culture and work practices to improve employee engagement, productivity and well-being.

From telephone and telegraph lines to 14.4k modems and satellite internet, the speed at which humans push and pull information has exponentially increased with every passing decade.

WAPA’s regional Procurement groups officially initiated a transition to a center-led organizational structure.

Byron McCollum received the 2022 Business Utilization Director’s Award.

Inside the hydroelectric industry the importance of accurate engineering drawings cannot be overstated.

Recognizing and Avoiding Distraction both at home and in the workplace.

Fire can happen anywhere, and we all need to be prepared to protect ourselves

Grid operators energized the Path 15 upgrade in autumn 2004.

A remarkable scientific journey took place within the depths of the Grand Canyon.

WAPA pre-registrations have far exceeded any in previous years.

The Tucson Substation riprap installation showcases how WAPA innovates in the physical security space.

Our dedicated Web Management team successfully modernized and migrated the site, significantly enhancing its functionality and aesthetic appeal.

Practicing cybersecurity basics can make a huge difference in protecting your information and systems that you use.

Every August, WAPA begins a five-month process to revise the Power System Safety Manual, an effort made successful by employee participation.

Vice President of Power Operations for CRSP, oversees two 24/7 control centers in Loveland, Colorado, and Phoenix, Arizona, supporting a seven-state region.

Earlier this year, WAPA finalized and published its Final 2025 Olmsted Power Marketing Plan, which specifies the terms and conditions under which WAPA will market energy from the Olmsted Project for the next 30 years, beginning in October 2024.

As participants in Leadership Development’s third cohort of the Emerging Leaders Development Program, a group of 25 candidates committed to two separate in-person, week-long training courses and an individual coaching session.

The Financial Operations group within the WAPA Office of the Chief Financial Officer’s Finance and Accounting team provides a repeatable case study in workforce management and succession planning.

Human Performance Improvement and Just Culture Program, or HPI/JC, continues to develop a framework that focuses on optimizing the performance of individuals and business units. 

Over the past several years, the United States has witnessed an increase of wildfire activity and intensity, threatening safe and reliable electrical transmission throughout the West.

Safety committees help keep WAPA employees safe on a local and organizational basis. They also can use input and participation from you.

Cybersecurity Advisor Jim Ball was recognized for participating on the Clean Energy Corps’ Core Competency Interview Team.

This transformative project will replace a pair of high voltage transmission lines that serve Estes Park.

On April 5, WAPA entered the California Independent System Operator’s WEIM.

Though articles and videos, employees share how they contribute to WAPA’s mission and strategy.

More than 40 of WAPA’s front-line workforce graduated from our first formalized UAS training program.

Safe spring cleaning. Spring is here, and for many it is a fitting time to organize and clean their homes and workspaces.

With record snowfalls pounding communities across northern California, WAPA’s Sierra Nevada crews continue to battle Mother Nature’s challenges to the area’s energy grid.

WAPA has taken an innovative step towards better protecting the electrical transmission system from the risks of space weather caused by our favorite star: the sun.

Cheryl Reese has led the Power Marketing Administrations Human Resources Shared Service Center since 2021.

Nov. 10, 2021, would be anything but normal for the 12-plus-year pilot. It would be the day Schuck cheated death.

WAPA hosted its annual customer meeting, a hybrid session based out of the Headquarters office in Lakewood, Colorado.

WAPA’s Power Forward 2030 plan can align individual programs.

Nearly a year in the making, WAPA released its updated strategic plan Feb. 7, 2023.

Several offices across the organization worked together to commemorate WAPA’s 45th Anniversary celebration through an all-employee meeting.

Liaison Office, Dionne Thompson is responsible for developing and leading WAPA’s national relations and government affairs strategies.

Pest control is an important aspect of facility operations that goes overlooked by most employees.

Paying attention to how each employee is doing mentally – and addressing concerns – is important for both for the individual and the organization as a whole.

Recently, many of WAPA’s historically significant physical records were transferred to the National Archives and Records Administration’s Federal Records Center in Broomfield, Colo.  

On Friday, Jan. 20, Secretary of Energy Jennifer Granholm visited Western Area Power Administration’s Desert Southwest regional office in Phoenix, AZ.

WAPA leaders from across the organizational footprint gathered for the first major in-person and hybrid event since the pandemic began.

The strategic plan is the successor to Strategic Roadmap 2024. It will guide WAPA through an evolving energy landscape for the next seven years.

WAPA celebrated 45 years as a power marketing administration

Employee photos showcase WAPA footprint

Being a leader is not about you.

WAPA’s craftsmen are the employees who touch the transmission system; all crafts work in harmony to complete WAPA’s mission.

In wet water years, customers can receive a lot of hydropower under their Base Resource…

On June 19, Jack Murray took the helm as Desert Southwest’s senior vice president and regional manager.

The ESAs recognize those who excel in technical competency, enthusiasm, innovation and commitment to bettering themselves and WAPA.

WAPA is currently exploring the potential of robotics and automation.​

On July 17, a powerful microburst with 80 mile-per-hour winds uprooted trees and damaged multiple high-voltage transmission lines,

In June, Administrator and CEO Tracey LeBeau announced the first participants of WAPA’s Leadership Learning Intensive, or L2I, Program.

The Open Mic events are still new, and momentum continues to build since their inaugural session in December 2021.

In May, Environmental Protection Specialist Andrea Severson received the Emerging Leader Award from RMEL in Denver, Colorado.

Western Area Power Administration is on track to fully expend the $500 million that the organization received from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.

On May 22, Rodney Bailey became senior vice president and manager of the Colorado River Storage Project Management Center.

On April 25-26, Colorado River Storage Project Management Center staff assisted in the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources’ biannual trout electrofishing survey.

In July 2021, Lloyd Linke assumed the role of senior vice president and Upper Great Plains regional manager.

WAPA has the distinct pleasure of working directly with Native American Tribes.

WAPA is a proud supporter of the National Science Bowl and hosts a number of regional events each year.

In March, WAPA named Paul Schwabe as senior vice president and Transmission Infrastructure Program manager.

The event was hosted by Equal Employment Specialist Peggy Wooten and moderated by Leadership Development Specialist Sarah P.

Chief Strategy Officer Kerry Whitford is working with senior leaders to develop WAPA’s 2030 strategic plan, the successor to Strategic Roadmap 2024.

In March, more than 25 linemen and communication technicians spent one week in a winter survival course.

On Feb. 23-24, WAPA’s Electric Power Training Center hosted its first-ever hybrid event: the 2022 Cybersecurity in Protective Relaying Workshop.

Rocky Mountain employees placed a mobile transformer into service at Kimball Substation in Kimball County, Nebraska.

In 2019, Michael Montoya was selected as senior vice president and chief information officer.

WAPA has massive repositories of data about its assets and operations. Most of it is housed in secure systems

The Department of Energy’s Office of Aviation Management hosts an annual aviation safety award program.

In December, Compliance Manager Mark Buchholz received the Midwest Reliability Organization’s Highly Effective Reliability Organizations Award.

WAPA’s first All-Employee Meeting of 2022 was held Feb. 3.

It’s an arduous process, moving a heavily remote workforce back into the building, and it is a move that will affect all employees, regardless of telework status.

A lightning storm caused damage to Gila Substation, spurring lengthy process of replacement and repair that lasted through early this year.

In January, Leadership Development launched the WAPA-wide Mentoring Program, welcoming 62 participants in its first cohort.

One of the biggest challenges for hydropower is water variability due to intermittent drought and flooding.

For the past several years, the U.S. has endured a series of devastating wildfires.

Last month WAPA launched a new tool that will enable us to more effectively monitor the health of our transmission system and efficiently react to condition issues.

Safety is one of WAPA’s Strategic Enablers, as identified in our Tactical Action Plan.

On Nov. 21, 2021, Kerry Whitford officially joined WAPA as the organization’s chief strategy officer.

WAPA took part in the North American Electric Reliability Corporation’s GridEx VI emergency exercise.

On Oct. 29, the Emerging Leaders Development Program graduated its first cohort of 30 individuals.

With big eyes and sharp talons, one might think that ospreys don’t need much protection from anything.

In October, the Loveland warehouse staff made a simple change to its storage configuration that uses the space efficiently

In October, Supervisory Electrical Engineer John Quintana received the Industry Leadership Award from RMEL.

Since joining Rocky Mountain region’s Eastern Colorado Maintenance Office in 2004, Jon Fredrickson has played a crucial role in maintaining and operating a wide range of WAPA-owned and General Services Administration-leased equipment.

Matt Grozs’ dedication, expertise and collaborative spirit have been invaluable to WAPA. As a Meter and Relay Electronic Integrated Systems Mechanic, he embodies the organization’s core values, fostering a curiosity and continuous learning culture.

Reflecting on WAPA’s remarkable journey and expressing gratitude for each of our team members.

DOE is preparing to open the FY25 Grid Resilience State and Tribal Formula Grants application period and announced an opportunity to provide input on three potential National Interest Electric Transmission Corridors.

On Dec. 18, 1992, the Western Area Power Administration’s Upper Great Plains region lost six team members in a plane crash. On the 32nd anniversary of the accident, WAPA employees remember their fellow teammates.

Barb Lynch has significantly contributed to WAPA through her exceptional expertise and leadership with a comprehensive understanding of WAPA’s Power Marketing, rates and repayment functions.

WAPA plans to make site visits a regular offering for new employees to get them quickly engaged and interested in our mission-critical work.

The dedication and hard work of our employees power communities, support our customers and sustain WAPA’s vital mission.

Anastasia Markel is a highly skilled Energy Management and Marketing Specialist for the Colorado River Storage Project region who consistently goes above and beyond her role and shows meticulous attention to detail and strong leadership.

Amy Blalock started her WAPA career in 2010 as part of the Student Career Experience Program. Over time, she has worked in various locations throughout the Rocky Mountain and Desert Southwest regions.

Colin Marquez has served as a valued member of WAPA since 2010, advancing through various leadership roles that reflect his dedication and contributions to achieving WAPA’s strategic goals.

Leah Shapiro has served WAPA for more than 12 years in various roles, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to its mission and people. She is a skilled storyteller, dedicated to sharing WAPA’s achievements and ensuring the organization presents itself in the best light.

The U.S. Department of Energy recently announced $10 million available for states, tribes and non-profits to accelerate transmission deployment.

The veteran-centric employee resource group supports WAPA employees with prior military service and recently provided a beneficial presentation on VA disability claims.

The Western Area Power Administration’s Rocky Mountain region added 12 new customers to its Loveland Area Projects portfolio, the most since 2004.

October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month, a great time to brush up on best practices for digital and online safety.

Joe Mayfield is a respected leader at WAPA. As the Upper Great Plains Transmission Scheduling and Switching Manager, he is known for his strong technical skills and self-driven nature and has significantly leveraged his expertise in with the UGP Energy Management System.

Ben Blaquiere with WAPA’s Upper Great Plains region epitomizes the organization’s core values through dedication, hard work and humility. For over 38 years, he has been a cornerstone at the Miles City Converter Station in Montana, earning him a 2024 ESA recognition.

WAPA’s Sustainability Program moves WAPA’s needle toward sustainable and efficient operations, reduced environmental impacts and resource conservation through everyday business practices.

You can help protect your home and loved ones through proactive planning and preparing to respond if a fire takes place.

Jonathan Aust has been instrumental in guiding WAPA through significant transitions, particularly in integrating RM and DSW regions into the SPP’s Western Energy Imbalance Service and CAISO’s Western Energy Imbalance Market.

Originally built in the early 1950s, WAPA’s Flatiron-Valley 115-kV line has powered Loveland while the community built up around it. WAPA is updating structures for more clearance and better reliability.

AEPCO, Basin, CORE, Minnkota Power, Tri-State and United Power were selected as finalists for funding through the USDA’s New ERA program.

WAPA crews responded to four destroyed and damaged transmission towers structures Aug. 28 after an EF-2 tornado touched down in South Dakota, resulting in $1.3 million of damage.

Today, we remember the tragic events of September 11, 2001. As we reflect on this solemn anniversary, we are reminded of the bravery of first responders and everyday citizens and the power of unity and service.

Crews from the Western Area Power Administration’s Rocky Mountain region worked to upgrade a 115-kilovolt transmission line that feeds power to consumers throughout the Loveland, Colorado, area.

Path 15 public private partnership enhanced the transmission grid.

This holiday marks more than the achievements of our workforce; it underscores our collective commitment to empowering communities and advancing a resilient energy future.

WAPA’s Cody Hotline School equips linemen with the technical skills for safe operations, combining hands-on training and industry expertise to enhance electrical safety.

David Tucker, WAPA’s new CTO, brings over 20 years of experience to lead tech innovation, driving WAPA’s mission of delivering clean, reliable energy forward.

WAPA collaborates to counter invasive smallmouth bass in the Grand Canyon, balancing environmental protection with the challenges of maintaining hydropower generation.

WAPA’s Desert Southwest region responded to a transformer fire caused by a lightning strike at its Test Track Substation near Maricopa, Arizona.

DOE’s Chief Information Officer and her staff visited WAPA to discuss technology and cybersecurity priorities, including deep dives into mandates and reporting.

WAPA’s Procurement team organized a field trip to Casper, Wyoming, aimed at reconnecting their staff with field operations, emphasizing the critical support they provide to live missions.

Learn about updated Hazard Communication Standard changes, including new labeling, hazard classifications, and expanded Safety Data Sheets to enhance chemical safety at WAPA.

With construction underway on WAPA’s soon-to-be-established Beale Substation, Sierra Nevada is paying particular attention to California’s native vernal pool fairy shrimp.

WAPA’s CPI community of over 300 members drives efficiency through Lean Six Sigma, fostering knowledge sharing and professional development to enhance operations.

DOE’s new portal streamlines transmission project permitting, cuts review timelines and enhances coordination with Tribes and stakeholders.

Kayti Bashore received the 2024 HR Strategic Partnership Award for her outstanding leadership and collaboration with HR, exemplifying excellence and fostering organizational success.

Discover the exciting new upgrades at WAPA’s Electric Power Training Center, featuring modern meeting spaces, enhanced training simulators and more.

Learn about the intricate world of WAPA’s Power System Dispatchers, who ensure the safe and reliable operation of the electric grid amid complex and challenging conditions.

Marks Phelps is an IT supervisor at WAPA who is passionate about blacksmithing.

Discover how WAPA’s record archival project is preserving history, optimizing space, and transitioning to digital records in a milestone effort.

As we commemorate the 80th anniversary of D-Day, we pause to honor the bravery, sacrifice and determination of the Allied forces who undertook this monumental task.

With so many safety topics to choose from, lets focus on a few that can make a big difference at work and our personal lives.

With extreme weather events on the rise, WAPA has faced growing energy costs. Yet, as it has from its inception, the organization continues to adapt.

The Western Area Power Administration line crews are heading home after a week of repairing damaged transmission lines in southwestern Iowa.

Today, on Memorial Day, we pause to honor and remember the brave men and women who have sacrificed their lives for our country.

During National Wildfire Awareness Month in May, the Western Area Power Administration is increasing knowledge of wildfire risk and potential impacts.

Carbon-free, cost-effective, reliable power that backs up renewables like wind and solar, built by U.S. companies and owned by U.S. utilities.

Achievements of past leadership development initiatives contribute to the success of today’s L2I program.

The 45-day public comment period presents an opportunity for customers, Tribes and other stakeholders to provide feedback, which will be essential to informing DOE’s NIETC process.

WAPA’s Leadership Learning Intensive is a transformative 18-month journey that molds the leaders of tomorrow within our organization.

The L2I program nurtures motivated self-starters with proven communication and leadership skills.

On April 25, WAPA’s Headquarters staff offered children a glimpse into the multifaceted world of WAPA to learn about its diverse roles and occupations.

Innovation drives progress, and leadership steers it towards meaningful impacts.

Today, we celebrate Administrative Professionals Day, an annual tradition acknowledging administrative professionals’ pivotal roles and immense contributions.

The current supply chain environment has raised concerns regarding equipment acquisition.

Our efforts contribute to broader sustainability goals, emphasizing the importance of renewable resources and environmental stewardship.

Our linemen are the backbone of our operations, ensuring the maintenance and reliability of high-voltage transmission lines across vast regions.

Residents of several Western Nebraska communities were faced with a blistering cold front which evolved into severe winds and blizzard conditions, resulting in the loss of power for more than 12,000 customers and damage to transmission lines and towers.

WAPA’s Colorado River Storage Project initiated a new Inter-Regional Service Partnership Agreement.

WAPA convened its Annual Customer Meeting, continuing its tradition of fostering open dialogue and collaboration with its customers and stakeholders.

The Department of Energy’s Office of Electricity is now accepting nominations for new members to join the Electricity Advisory Committee. 

Regional Procurement teams recently met for a three-day event aimed at fostering collaboration, breaking down regional silos and enhancing organizational effectiveness.

Michelle Williams is a critical member of WAPA’s senior executive team for the Sierra Nevada region.

WAPA’s Continuous Process Improvement (CPI) program is championed by two relatively new leaders who are driving CPI forward from a long history and solid foundation for successful process improvement.

In February 2024, Department of Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm presented Western Area Power Administration’s Scott Lund with the DOE Secretary of Energy Excellence Award.

A strong winter storm spread layers of ice across the Interstate 94 corridor from Bismarck to Grand Forks.

Desert Southwest recently consolidated the rates of its transmission systems, cutting administrative costs by simplifying the rates-making process.

As a learning organization, we strive to improve our processes, identify areas of improvement, and seek feedback from our employees.

In the spirit of innovation and progress, we are thrilled to announce a transformation in how we connect with you, our valued customers and stakeholders.

Human Performance Improvement and Just Culture Program, or HPI/JC, continues to develop a framework that focuses on optimizing the performance of individuals and business units. 

With record snowfalls pounding communities across northern California, WAPA’s Sierra Nevada crews continue to battle Mother Nature’s challenges to the area’s energy grid.

We evolve and cultivate our culture and work practices to improve employee engagement, productivity and well-being.

From telephone and telegraph lines to 14.4k modems and satellite internet, the speed at which humans push and pull information has exponentially increased with every passing decade.

WAPA’s regional Procurement groups officially initiated a transition to a center-led organizational structure.

In March 2022, Paul Schwabe joined WAPA as senior vice president and Transmission Infrastructure Program manager.

The Exceptional Service Award is WAPA’s most prestigious employee award.

Byron McCollum received the 2022 Business Utilization Director’s Award.

Inside the hydroelectric industry the importance of accurate engineering drawings cannot be overstated.

Recognizing and Avoiding Distraction both at home and in the workplace.

Fire can happen anywhere, and we all need to be prepared to protect ourselves

Grid operators energized the Path 15 upgrade in autumn 2004.

A remarkable scientific journey took place within the depths of the Grand Canyon.

WAPA pre-registrations have far exceeded any in previous years.

The Tucson Substation riprap installation showcases how WAPA innovates in the physical security space.

Our dedicated Web Management team successfully modernized and migrated the site, significantly enhancing its functionality and aesthetic appeal.

Practicing cybersecurity basics can make a huge difference in protecting your information and systems that you use.

Every August, WAPA begins a five-month process to revise the Power System Safety Manual, an effort made successful by employee participation.

Vice President of Power Operations for CRSP, oversees two 24/7 control centers in Loveland, Colorado, and Phoenix, Arizona, supporting a seven-state region.

Earlier this year, WAPA finalized and published its Final 2025 Olmsted Power Marketing Plan, which specifies the terms and conditions under which WAPA will market energy from the Olmsted Project for the next 30 years, beginning in October 2024.

As participants in Leadership Development’s third cohort of the Emerging Leaders Development Program, a group of 25 candidates committed to two separate in-person, week-long training courses and an individual coaching session.

The Financial Operations group within the WAPA Office of the Chief Financial Officer’s Finance and Accounting team provides a repeatable case study in workforce management and succession planning.

Human Performance Improvement and Just Culture Program, or HPI/JC, continues to develop a framework that focuses on optimizing the performance of individuals and business units. 

Over the past several years, the United States has witnessed an increase of wildfire activity and intensity, threatening safe and reliable electrical transmission throughout the West.

Safety committees help keep WAPA employees safe on a local and organizational basis. They also can use input and participation from you.

Cybersecurity Advisor Jim Ball was recognized for participating on the Clean Energy Corps’ Core Competency Interview Team.

This transformative project will replace a pair of high voltage transmission lines that serve Estes Park.

On April 5, WAPA entered the California Independent System Operator’s WEIM.

Though articles and videos, employees share how they contribute to WAPA’s mission and strategy.

More than 40 of WAPA’s front-line workforce graduated from our first formalized UAS training program.

Safe spring cleaning. Spring is here, and for many it is a fitting time to organize and clean their homes and workspaces.

WAPA has taken an innovative step towards better protecting the electrical transmission system from the risks of space weather caused by our favorite star: the sun.

Cheryl Reese has led the Power Marketing Administrations Human Resources Shared Service Center since 2021.

Nov. 10, 2021, would be anything but normal for the 12-plus-year pilot. It would be the day Schuck cheated death.

WAPA hosted its annual customer meeting, a hybrid session based out of the Headquarters office in Lakewood, Colorado.

WAPA’s Power Forward 2030 plan can align individual programs.

Nearly a year in the making, WAPA released its updated strategic plan Feb. 7, 2023.

Several offices across the organization worked together to commemorate WAPA’s 45th Anniversary celebration through an all-employee meeting.

Liaison Office, Dionne Thompson is responsible for developing and leading WAPA’s national relations and government affairs strategies.

Pest control is an important aspect of facility operations that goes overlooked by most employees.

Paying attention to how each employee is doing mentally – and addressing concerns – is important for both for the individual and the organization as a whole.

Recently, many of WAPA’s historically significant physical records were transferred to the National Archives and Records Administration’s Federal Records Center in Broomfield, Colo.  

On Friday, Jan. 20, Secretary of Energy Jennifer Granholm visited Western Area Power Administration’s Desert Southwest regional office in Phoenix, AZ.

WAPA leaders from across the organizational footprint gathered for the first major in-person and hybrid event since the pandemic began.

The strategic plan is the successor to Strategic Roadmap 2024. It will guide WAPA through an evolving energy landscape for the next seven years.

WAPA celebrated 45 years as a power marketing administration

Employee photos showcase WAPA footprint

Being a leader is not about you.

WAPA’s craftsmen are the employees who touch the transmission system; all crafts work in harmony to complete WAPA’s mission.

In wet water years, customers can receive a lot of hydropower under their Base Resource…

On June 19, Jack Murray took the helm as Desert Southwest’s senior vice president and regional manager.

The ESAs recognize those who excel in technical competency, enthusiasm, innovation and commitment to bettering themselves and WAPA.

WAPA is currently exploring the potential of robotics and automation.​

On July 17, a powerful microburst with 80 mile-per-hour winds uprooted trees and damaged multiple high-voltage transmission lines,

In June, Administrator and CEO Tracey LeBeau announced the first participants of WAPA’s Leadership Learning Intensive, or L2I, Program.

The Open Mic events are still new, and momentum continues to build since their inaugural session in December 2021.

In May, Environmental Protection Specialist Andrea Severson received the Emerging Leader Award from RMEL in Denver, Colorado.

Western Area Power Administration is on track to fully expend the $500 million that the organization received from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.