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Tag: AABE Florida Chapter

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AABE Florida Represents at the 2026 AABE National Conference

The Florida Chapter of the American Association of Blacks in Energy (AABE) proudly participated in the 2026 AABE National Conference this past April, joining energy professionals, executives, and emerging leaders from across the country for an impactful week of networking, professional development, and collaboration.

The conference brought together AABE members from every region to engage in conversations surrounding leadership, innovation, workforce development, and the future of the energy industry. Members of the AABE Florida Chapter were honored to attend, connect with fellow industry professionals, and represent the State of Florida on the national stage.

The conference provided valuable opportunities for attendees to:

  • Strengthen professional relationships within the energy sector
  • Participate in leadership and career development sessions
  • Engage in discussions on diversity, equity, and inclusion in energy
  • Share ideas and best practices with chapters from across the nation
  • Celebrate the accomplishments and continued growth of AABE

Florida chapter members were actively involved throughout the conference and proudly showcased the spirit of collaboration and excellence that continues to define AABE Florida.

As AABE continues its mission of providing direct input into the deliberations and developments of energy policies, regulations, emerging technologies, and environmental issues, conferences like these remain an important opportunity to inspire the next generation of leaders in energy.

The Florida Chapter extends its appreciation to all members who attended, participated, and represented the chapter with professionalism and pride. We look forward to continuing the momentum throughout the year as we support education, leadership development, and community engagement across Florida.

To learn more about the conference and AABE National initiatives, visit AABE National Conference Information.

AABE FL 2026 meetings (004)

AABE Florida Chapter Announces 2026 General Membership Meeting Schedule

The AABE Florida Chapter has announced its 2026 General Membership Meeting schedule, featuring both virtual and in-person gatherings in March, June, September, and December. Members across Florida are invited to participate and stay engaged with chapter initiatives and the energy community.

BEAM

AABE |TECO BEAM Event with North Tampa Success Center – Utility Industry Career Session

AABE Florida extends our heartfelt appreciation to our partners at TECO for their outstanding engagement and support during our recent student-focused event. Though BEAM Month officially begins in October, we are proudly counting this collaboration as an early BEAM initiative—and what a powerful start it was!

Together with TECO and Duke Energy, students were introduced to career journeys, energy awareness, safety, craft and technical opportunities, power generation, and energy efficiency. The candid conversations and hands-on insights made a lasting impact and inspired the next generation of energy leaders.

A special shout-out goes to Julie Ward, Phillip Singleton, Addidas Barnes, Derick Farfan, and Dr. Shonda Flores for their exceptional dedication. Your passion and commitment helped create a memorable and meaningful experience for every student in attendance.

👏 Thank you, TECO, for being an incredible partner in this mission. Together, we’re building brighter futures in energy! ⚡

#AABEFlorida #BEAMMonth #EnergyAwareness #TECO #NextGeneration #STEMCareers

Florida's Women In Energy Leadership Forum

AABE Florida Chapter President Featured in The Power Source

We are proud to share that Walette Stanford, President of the AABE Florida Chapter, is featured in the January 2025 issue of The Power Source, a publication of the Florida Women in Energy Leadership Forum (FWELF).

In her feature, Walette shares insights into her career journey, her role as Ethics Officer at JEA, and her perspective on who we are as AABE. She highlights the importance of fostering an ethical workplace culture, building career pathways for future energy leaders, and the value of purposeful career development.

Highlights from the Interview

  • On her role at JEA: Walette develops and executes strategies to strengthen JEA’s ethical culture, ensure compliance, and embed values into daily operations.
  • On inspiring the next generation: JEA offers internships, apprenticeships, and college-to-career programs that provide real-world experience, mentorship, and skill-building for future energy professionals.
  • On her career path: With an MBA and experience in both human resources and communications, Walette describes her professional growth as a purposeful strategy—one that she encourages students to consider when shaping their own futures.

About FWELF

Founded by Lila Jaber, the Florida Women in Energy Leadership Forum continues to highlight women making an impact across the energy sector. This year, FWELF will celebrate its 10th anniversary at the 2025 Forum: IMPACT!, held August 25–27 at the Four Seasons Orlando.

📖 Read Walette’s Full Interview in The Power Source

Announcing the 49th AABE National Conference in New Orleans

The AABE Florida Chapter is excited to share important updates about the upcoming 49th AABE National Conference, taking place in vibrant New Orleans, Louisiana.

Updated Conference Dates

Please note the conference will now be held Sunday, April 12 – Wednesday, April 15, 2026, a slight adjustment from the originally announced April 13–17 dates.

What Remains the Same

While the dates have shifted, the heart of the AABE National Conference remains unchanged:

  • Policy Leadership, Community Engagement, and Career & Professional Development continue as our guiding pillars.
  • Attendees will enjoy a rich experience focused on education, professional growth, networking, and enrichment—the hallmarks of the AABE experience.
  • Conference cost remains unchanged.

What to Expect

Prepare for a comprehensive, power-packed AABE experience that tackles national energy issues while celebrating resilience and innovation in our industry. This annual gathering is more than a conference—it’s an opportunity to connect, learn, and lead alongside energy professionals and thought leaders from across the nation.

The AABE Board of Directors, National Headquarters Staff, Regional Directors, and Local Leadership are eagerly looking forward to welcoming you to New Orleans this spring.

Join Us in New Orleans

📍 Location: Hyatt Regency New Orleans
🔗 Register Today

Help us spread the excitement by sharing this news with your colleagues and networks. Together, we will make this year’s conference an unforgettable experience.

Thank you for your continued support and commitment to AABE’s mission. We look forward to seeing you in New Orleans!