Al Raymond Reflecting on AAPI Heritage Month
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What do you like about working at AVANGRID?
Before joining AVANGRID, I worked as an engineer, a marketing manager, and a corporate lawyer. When I realized law firm life wasn’t for me, I wrote down my four career goals. They were to align my personal values with my company’s, to use skills from both my legal and business backgrounds, to share common goals with a team, and to watch my kids grow up. For me, AVANGRID has hit all four. Also being able to contribute to our country’s transition to clean energy? It has been just an amazing opportunity.
What’s a recent project or initiative you’ve been proud to be a part of?
AVANGRID being named one of the World’s Most Ethical Companies by the Ethisphere Institute. It speaks to everything our employees stand for, AVANGRID’s contributions to communities and the environment, and years of committing to ethical values. I’m grateful that our team could play a part in it.
What does AAPI month mean to you?
Growing up as a Korean American in rural Maine, I never would have thought something like AAPI month would be possible. Although we are in a challenging time, AAPI month is one way we can reflect on our values and progress as a diverse society. In fact, just a few years ago, I visited my old school in rural Maine for a tournament and there was a poster on the front entrance celebrating South Korea Appreciation Week! I had to take a photo for the kids.
How do you feel about AVANGRID’s commitment to Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI)?
It’s so important. The world is changing faster every day. Embracing DEI is a critical part of AVANGRID’s ability to adapt and thrive through that change. The more I learn about the goals and benefits of our commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, the more I’m convinced that it’s the right thing to do.
Who or what inspires you?
Without a doubt, driving down the highway after a difficult storm and seeing a fleet of Central Maine Power trucks heading to where our community needs them most. Those are the moments when I’m most proud of working here.
What do you hope to accomplish in the years ahead?
AVANGRID is on an amazing trajectory, but our future as a clean energy leader will depend on our reputation and values. My hope is that a few years from now, our company will be synonymous at the dinner table with environment, community, and ethical values. I think our ethics and compliance program can play an important role in getting there.
