Cole: Who are your role models, and what life- changing lessons did you pick up from them? Kenney: My mother is my role-model. She taught me the value of a strong work ethic. As a reading teacher, she instilled in me the value of education, intellectual curiosity, and a life- long love of learning. She taught me the value of empathy, the value of humility, and the value of kindness. Cole: What inspired you to pursue a career in the energy field, and how did you get started? Kenney: Earlier in my career, I worked as an assistant attorney general under Attorney General Jay Nixon, as a consumer protection attorney. Several years later, Attorney General Nixon was elected Governor of Missouri and he appointed me to the Missouri Public Service Commission, which is the regulatory body for utilities in the state. I had the privilege of serving for six years, the last two as Chairman. Having that opportunity showed me how important energy providers are. I was drawn to this industry because it is important and consequential work. I have been truly fortunate to have been given the opportunity and privilege to work in an industry that is critical human existence. We light the darkness and provide warmth on the coldest nights. This kind of mission-driven and purpose-driven work is what gets me out of bed in the morning.
Photo: McBoat Photography
Leadership Vision: Steering the Future of Energy Join CBCC’s Dr. Angelic Cole in a revealing conversation with Xcel Energy’s visionary leader, Robert Kenney, exploring the innovative strategies and personal philosophies driving the industry forward. Cole: What would you say Is the primary motivating factor behind your leadership? Kenney: The primary motivating factor behind my leadership is the desire to be of service to others; to be of service to our customers, our communities, and my coworkers. Working in the energy industry is very much aligned with my personal ethos.
Photo: McBoat Photography
10 The Acumen
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