Amber Clinkscales, a Market Operations Analyst in SRP’s Transmissions Services department, hasn’t had a perfectly linear career path.
“I didn’t choose this career – it chose me,” Clinkscales said recently. “When I came to SRP from the banking industry eight years ago, I was passionate about HR. But after transferring into an operations role, my director asked if I’d be interested in project management … and it ignited a new passion.”
Clinkscales got involved in the group’s Extended Day Ahead Market (EDAM) initiatives and began training for the Project Management Professional (PMP)® certification. This work led to a recent promotion, where she is now helping implement an operational excellence program – a critical effort for a team that’s responsible for ensuring SRP has the power it needs to keep the lights on.
Spreading her wings
Clinkscales’ desire to grow within SRP also led to another area of passion – her involvement in the company’s African American Cultural Committee (AACC) Employee Resource Group (ERG).
SRP’s 10 ERGs are self-organized voluntary groups that self-identify with a diversity dimension or like interest. In addition to offering resources, ERGs provide networking opportunities beyond a person’s job role or department.
“I was in the audit department at the time … and I wanted people to see me outside of my role,” she said. “AACC’s initiatives, mission and vision aligned with things close to my heart.”
Contributing to community partnerships is one of those areas of alignment. The AACC and other ERGs partner with nonprofits and fundraise for various causes outside of SRP’s walls.
With Clinkscales’ help, the AACC recently adopted a family for the holiday season. They selected a Valley family who had been dealing with a number of challenges and ran a companywide drive to provide them with needed items.
“The kids showed up prepared to give back to someone else in need, not knowing they were the ones receiving. It was such a blessing. We came together as an SRP community to bless this family,” she said.
Balancing a passion for work with a heart for community
Just as SRP’s Energy Imbalance Market (EIM) works to balance forecasted energy load with demand, Clinkscales balances her full-time job with personal work in the community.
“Giving back has always been really near and dear to my heart,” she explained.
As the hospitality lead at United Nations Church in Phoenix, Clinkscales makes sure that families adjusting after medical or other personal situations get home-cooked meals. She is also planning to host a monthly workshop focused on writing resumes and cover letters and is “excited to give people the tools they need to be successful.”
Clinkscales brings this same passion to her work and projects at SRP, where it is reflected in the company’s culture.
“In times of need, whether in the community or with employees, we really show up. We’re there, we’re supportive, and we make sure that employees have the support they need,” she said.
Learn about career opportunities at SRP
You can join Amber and many other exceptional employees by applying at SRP today.