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not been on the Mississippi 811 board but a couple of years when Sam Johnson shared with me how fortunate he was to have Mike on board. He said, “The thing about Mike is that he doesn’t just put on his 811 cap when he comes to a board meeting, he keeps it with him wherever he goes. He consistently represents who we are on job sites every day.”
At board development meetings across the country, often the desired topic is creating a succession plan. Working with Mississippi 811 for 15 years, we’ve discussed that topic many times, and rightfully so. It is important to have confidence in the next leader when the baton is handed off. In that
“I’m still in the damage prevention business and it is an industry that I’ve been passionate about for many years.”
regard, the Mississippi 811 board was fortunate to have Fred Johnson who had been there almost 20 years and much of that time was spent as Operations Director. Perhaps the biggest challenge for the new President of Mississippi 811 was in selecting his replacement.
As it turned out, perhaps it was not as difficult as it could have been. The new President, Fred Johnson stated, “Obviously, I knew Mike. I had the privilege of working with him for several years dealing with damage prevention issues. He has always been very responsive to any situation that has come up. Most of the issues were conflicts between his former employer and other members of Mississippi 811. The outcome has always been a positive resolution. He
has also served on our Board of Directors and has been an asset to our organization. Mike had several years of utility experience and worked well with people. He had held supervisory positions in the companies that he worked for and is a person with high moral values. In addition, since Mike has served on our Board of Directors, he already has
a close working relationship with our existing board and with many of our employees. They were already familiar and comfortable with him. So, it seemed like a natural fit for everyone.”
Recently, I had the opportunity to talk with Mike about
his new role. He said, “I’m still in the damage prevention business and it is an industry that I’ve been passionate about for many years.” He hung his head for a moment and then said, “I am thankful and truly humbled to be a part of such an outstanding organization, I have been blessed to have this opportunity and honored to work alongside great men such as Sam and Fred Johnson. I am excited to serve the members of MS811 in the future.”
Well said, my friend... And welcome aboard!
Start the New Year with CenterPoint Energy
CenterPoint Energy training is focused on making sure your leadership
and field personnel understand the 811 state laws, safe digging best practices, and other tips to help your projects be completed damage free without the delays and expenses
of cutting a natural gas line. Most importantly, it is critical we cover how to stay safe in the event of a cut natural gas line.
Our training also covers the steps to prevent natural gas ignition, explosion, and inherent risks should blowing gas from a damaged pipeline occur in your community.
To schedule your training session, email
PublicAwareness@CenterPointEnergy.com
2023, Issue 3
Mississippi 811 • 9