Marie C. Gildow
Nominated for: 30 Over 30 Award
Title: Environmental Engineer- Principal
Company: American Electric Power
Years in Profession: 11+
Nominator: Brian D. Newton, Environmental Manager, American Electric Power, manager of Marie.
Tell us why this person deserves recognition for making a difference in the practice of EHS & Sustainability management. (500 words max.)*
Marie performs at a very high level. She developed a mastery of NPDES related work. She is now learning Coal Combustion Byproducts subject matter. She is a model for industry professionals. Her commitment to doing the right thing for the environment while balancing what the plants’ needs is noteworthy.
Describe a situation or initiative where the nominee was directly responsible for a significant achievement and/or advancement in the practice of EHS & Sustainability management. Include metrics and KPIs if available. (500 words max.)*
Marie had responsibility for two large power plant NDPES permit renewals. In addition to securing the new permits, she appealed due to some difficult permit conditions. She was able to work with the agency to come to terms on most of the issues. This is a difficult task for one facility. Marie did this for two. All while preserving the vital relationship with the agency. She had other SWPPP and compliance support tasks during this time as well.
Marie has a great questioning attitude and is always wanting to fully understand an issue at hand. She takes initiatives and follows through. As an example, Marie asked a lot of really good questions regarding the on-going mitigation monitoring for one of our plants and has run with the deed restriction / property transfer. She also took the initiative to write comments on a state NWP Regional Conditions. Marie is also quick to respond and offer assistance, such as processing several permit applications for one of our hydroelectric plants.
Marie helped lead compliance with the West Virginia Aboveground Storage Tank Rule in 2015. To ensure compliance, Marie travelled to every AEP generation plant in West Virginia to better understand individual operations and how the new rule would apply. Marie’s acuity for detail resulted in thoughtful input to support compliance for seven generation plants within the state. Additionally, her insight helped shape the comments submitted during the regulatory development and program as we know it today. Marie continues to be a subject matter expert on the rule and has since developed enterprise-wide expertise on Spill Prevention, Control and Countermeasure operations.
In your opinion, what are the predominant skills and attributes that directly contribute to the nominee’s effectiveness and success? (500 words max.)*
Marie demonstrates great leadership ability. Some of the traits that make Marie and excellent candidate for this recognition are; a questioning attitude, fluency reading and interpreting regulations, maintaining a positive attitude, excellent communicator, continuous improvement mindset, follow-up and follow-thru.
Marie has developed an extensive depth of knowledge for the utility industry through her direct environmental experience supporting multiple aspects including Generation, Transmission, Distribution, and Internal business operations.
Share the ways this nominee has positively influenced you, both personally and professionally. You may also include reflections and quotes from others including executives, direct reports, colleagues, suppliers, and clients. (500 words max.)*
Marie prepares very well. She has the talent and skill to respectfully debate the agencies’ interpretation of rules and regulations. She tells you how she feels and not what she thinks you want to hear. She asks a lot of good questions. She is very constructive with her line of thought. Marie has been described as an very impressive Environmental Professional by her peers. Business Partners call her top-shelf. Leaders use the words “very impressed”.
Provide one or more examples of nominee’s commitment to environmental stewardship within their organization and/or the community. (500 words max.)*
Marie is genuinely interested in improving and connecting with the natural environment and brings that love to those external to her work life. Marie elevates awareness of the natural environment to her social network by frequently posting about family hikes which include pictures of unique plants or insects with both common and scientific names!
Marie actively volunteers with the Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Ohio Mentor Program and has done so for the past ten years. Specifically, Marie serves as a Big Sister and directly impacts children she mentors, their families, and creates supportive, lifelong relationships.