Smart Wires Inc.

Employee Spotlight: Richelle Sampson, Sr Manager of Project Operations

June 18, 2024

What inspired you to first join Smart Wires?

I was inspired to join Smart Wires during the pandemic. I was working in a job that was not fulfilling and did not align with my true passions of sustainability and clean energy. I wanted to work for an organization that matched my personal beliefs and my professional goals. I joined Smart Wires as a Business Process Analyst, which allowed me to marry what I am good at professionally with what I am passionate about personally. I have also been able to grow within my role and within the organization, carving a path for myself in ways that I was never able to in any of my previous roles.

Can you share a bit about your role as Senior Manager of Project Operations?

As the Senior Manager of Project Operations, I wear many hats, primarily within the Projects & Services department. I assist our teams with process governance and process improvement, resource management, procurement, logistics, OKR development and deployment, regional project support, Corrective Action Response reviews, technical writing program management, training program development, as well as assisting with multiple audits we have throughout the year. Process mapping and process improvement are my “bread and butter” and love that I can put these skills to work on a daily basis.

What aspect of your work are you most passionate about, and why?

The aspect of my work that I am most passionate about is being a part of an organization that is helping drive the world towards a more sustainable future. I also truly enjoy working with other teams to problem solve and overcome any challenges and issues that are thrown our way.

What is the most challenging part of your job?

The most challenging part of my job is being able to balance competing priorities. There are many plates spinning in the air at once, and learning to juggle and balance them all can be daunting at times. To overcome this, we work as a team to understand the need, how it will impact the organization, and prioritize what is needed and when. From there, we can all be on the same page and work together to achieve our goals.

In your opinion, what sets Smart Wires apart from other companies in the industry?

Smart Wires deploys innovative solutions for grid enhancing technologies, allowing utilities to better manage the integration of various renewable energy sources. This helps to enhance grid resilience and adapt to changing energy demands. Also, Smart Wires works with utilities to help tailor their solution effectively and to ensure the solution meets the needs of their customers. Being customer-focused and steadfastly committed to grid enhancement, innovation, clean energy, sustainability, and safety, set Smart Wires apart from others within the industry.

Outside of your day-to-day work, what climate action inspires you?

I recently moved from the Midwest to San Diego. After moving here and living in such close proximity to the ocean, you realize how big of an impact you have on the environment around you and how plastic pollution plays such a huge part in the climate crisis. To help, I have participated in a few beach cleanups on the weekends. A group of dedicated individuals who are passionate about the environment and leaving the beach and ocean better than they found it is so inspiring and shows us that we all have a role to play in sustainability and mitigating climate emergencies.

Contributing expert

Richelle Sampson

Richelle Sampson

Senior Manager of Project Operations

Richelle Sampson is Senior Manager of Project Operations at Smart Wires, responsible for process mapping, process governance and process improvement for the Projects & Services department, alongside leading a variety of workstreams such as resource management, technical writing program management, and audits. Richelle has over 18 years of experience across multiple industries, predominantly in program management, analyst and process management roles. Prior to joining Smart Wires in 2021, Richelle was Program Manager at Gallup, where she managed a large five-year $7M+ ERP implementation project.

For press related purposes, please contact us at marketing@smartwires.com.

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