Tag: 3BL

CINCINNATI, March 12, 2025 /3BL/ – Today Fifth Third (NASDAQ: FITB) and community leaders celebrated the groundbreaking for a new full-service banking center in Cincinnati’s Avondale neighborhood, which has been without a standalone bank branch for nearly five years.

The new branch is expected to open to the public in late summer or early fall and is among 15 banking centers Fifth Third plans to open in low- and moderate-income (LMI) or high minority (HMT) population census tracts this year. The branch will enable Fifth Third to increase financial access for the community while contributing to the revitalization of Avondale.

Fifth Third prioritizes financial access and neighborhood revitalization through its Neighborhood Program, a community development initiative which creates and implements innovative place-based strategies to effect positive change in historically disinvested neighborhoods across the Bank’s 11-state footprint. As Fifth Third strategically expands and opens new financial centers across the U.S., 30% of new branches in development will be in LMI and/or HMT areas. In addition to new centers, Fifth Third offers its Financial Empowerment Mobile, known as the eBus, and Banking to Go kiosks to address gaps in financial services in underserved communities.

“At Fifth Third, we believe that strong banks need strong communities, and strong communities need strong banks,” said Kala Gibson, chief corporate responsibility officer for Fifth Third. “We are proud to contribute to the revitalization of Avondale by expanding financial access through this new branch, in addition to many other community investments in recent years.”

Located in the Avondale Town Center, the new branch will be a model for innovation and sustainability, occupying 2,024 square feet in a storefront along Reading Road. The existing full service drive-up ATM in the town center parking lot will remain. Inside, the center’s open design will make it easy for customers to get quick digital service or discuss more complex banking products, like college savings plans, mortgages, or retirement solutions. The new, streamlined building will feature flexible meeting and seating areas that offer adjustable layers of privacy. The branch is expected to open in late summer or early fall 2025, with Walnut Hills-based Triversity Construction serving as the general contractor. Soul Palette, a local Cincinnati artist, will design and install a mural that celebrates Avondale’s history.

“We are able to celebrate the opening of this Avondale location because of the special bond that exists between our community partners and our local Fifth Third team,” said Tim Elsbrock, president, Fifth Third Bank, Greater Cincinnati Region. “This is the result of many years of conversations, planning and hard work that allowed for a shared commitment to provide resources for the good of our community.”

Avondale, Cincinnati’s largest African American community, has experienced decades of disinvestment leading to population decline, aging housing stock and increased poverty.

“The Avondale Development Corporation is excited to welcome Fifth Third to our Avondale community,” said Russell Hairston, executive director of the Avondale Development Corporation. “This is more than just a bank opening; it represents a commitment to Avondale’s future. This marks a significant step toward economic empowerment and neighborhood revitalization. By providing accessible financial services, small business support, and homeownership opportunities, Fifth Third is helping to create a more financially inclusive Avondale. We look forward to partnering with them on financial literacy programs, workforce development initiatives, and community investment strategies that will uplift residents and drive sustainable growth, which aligns with ADC’s mission to foster sustainable community development.”

Fifth Third launched its neighborhood program in 2021, taking a place-based approach to community development where the Bank works with a lead partner organization and other local organizations to build ecosystems that drive real change through both financial and social investments. This collective ecosystem approach is focused on identifying solutions to key challenges in partnership with the community, with the goal of creating lasting, transformative change.

In partnership with the Avondale Development Corporation and other community partners, Fifth Third has made $33.6 million in direct investments into Avondale and helped catalyze $17.9 million from other entitles for a total financial impact of $51.5 million.

Key initiatives include:

Blair Lofts: The Fifth Third Community Development Corporation invested $15.5 million into Blair Lofts in 2021. The 64-unit affordable housing development located on Reading Road features one-, two-, or three-bedroom apartments, on-site management and amenities that include laundry, resident storage spaces, a community kitchen and a fitness center. Fifth Third also funded wrap-around services such as a move-in care package for residents, financial education workshops, funding so that 55 children could attend a summer camp, furnishing for the community room, and five desktop computers and furnishings for a computer lab.Carthage Flats: Fifth Third is providing equity and construction financing for Carthage Flats in Cincinnati. Located on Vine Street, Carthage Flats is a 45-unit affordable housing development that has received a 4% low-income housing tax credit award. The property is designed for family households with incomes up to 30-, 50- and 60% of the area median income. All 45 units will operate with Permanent Supportive Housing funding and target those who are homeless or at risk of homelessness. The housing is being built on a long-vacant site.Digital Accessibility: Fifth Third has been working to help close the digital divide and bring Avondale residents into the technology mainstream. Key partners in the effort include the Avondale Development Corporation, Uptown Consortium Inc., and the University of Cincinnati. Following a community-wide assessment of the neighborhood and its needs, in fall 2024 the partners began replacing non-functional and outdated equipment at eight housing complexes and adding service in two locations that were not previously served, thanks to funding from the United Way of Greater Cincinnati. In early 2025, 319 apartments are expected to have free internet connectivity, including 779 residents and 374 school-age students. Six free outdoor hotspots are also being installed along Reading Road. The final phase includes a neighborhood-wide Wi-Fi project that will provide free and/or discounted servicing throughout all of Avondale.

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About Fifth Third

Fifth Third is a bank that’s as long on innovation as it is on history. Since 1858, we’ve been helping individuals, families, businesses and communities grow through smart financial services that improve lives. Our list of firsts is extensive, and it’s one that continues to expand as we explore the intersection of tech-driven innovation, dedicated people and focused community impact. Fifth Third is one of the few U.S.-based banks to have been named among Ethisphere’s World’s Most Ethical Companies® for several years. With a commitment to taking care of our customers, employees, communities and shareholders, our goal is not only to be the nation’s highest performing regional bank, but to be the bank people most value and trust.

Fifth Third Bank, National Association is a federally chartered institution. Fifth Third Bancorp is the indirect parent company of Fifth Third Bank and its common stock is traded on the NASDAQ® Global Select Market under the symbol “FITB.” Investor information and press releases can be viewed at www.53.com. Deposit and credit products provided by Fifth Third Bank, National Association. Member FDIC.

Originally published by Public Utilities Fortnightly

For leading energy providers like Southern Company, affordability has long been an essential part of doing business. After all, when energy is not affordable, customers suffer, businesses are at risk, and economic growth opportunities go elsewhere.

Meeting customer needs is and has been the Atlanta-based company’s North Star. While it starts with affordability, energy must also be clean, safe, and reliable. All these pillars need to be in harmony to allow for the delivery of resilient and consistent energy that can stimulate and drive economic growth, all while providing an essential service to customers large and small.

Continue reading here. 

Ever wondered how wastewater becomes clean again? Join us as we explore wastewater treatment at the Holyoke Wastewater Treatment Plant in Holyoke, Massachusetts.

In this video, we break down the comprehensive process including screening to remove large debris, settling to separate solids in tanks and the biological treatment using living microorganisms to purify water.

Veolia operates the Holyoke Wastewater Treatment Plant on the city’s behalf, providing a strategic blend of local presence and global expertise. This combination ensures access to extensive resources and technical expertise, allowing the plant to address issues beyond its immediate scope.

Whether you’re a municipality, industrial facility or utility provider, we offer comprehensive services to help you navigate the complexities of water treatment, distribution and wastewater management.

Our expertise spans the entire water cycle, from sourcing and treatment to distribution, reuse and optimization. We have extensive experience in the ownership and operation of regulated water utility systems, ensuring compliance with stringent regulations and delivering high-quality water services to your community or facility.

Our state-of-the-art wastewater treatment solutions are designed to meet the highest environmental standards, protecting public health and preserving natural resources. We also offer innovative water reuse and optimization strategies, helping you maximize the value of this precious resource while minimizing waste.

With a deep understanding of municipal and industrial water needs, our team of experts provides tailored solutions that address your unique challenges. From infrastructure planning and design to operational support and maintenance, we are your trusted partner in ensuring a sustainable and efficient water management system.

Want to learn more about our water and wastewater operations and management partnerships? Visit https://www.veolianorthamerica.com/what-we-do/water-capabilities

At The Economist’s 10th Sustainability Week, held in London, Cascale CEO Colin Browne joined a panel discussion on supply chain sustainability and the role of business in driving climate action. The session, moderated by Eddie Milev (Economist Impact), explored how companies can balance geopolitical challenges, regulatory pressures, and sustainability goals while maintaining supply chain resilience.

Browne was joined by Lucy Westgarth, Environmental, Social & Governance Lead at Leidos Europe, who brought insights from the defense and public sector supply chains to the discussion. Together, they examined the shifting role of sustainability as an operational priority rather than an afterthought.

“Sustainability used to be the last item on the boardroom agenda—an afterthought,” Browne stated. “Now, it’s a core business function, touching everything from supply chain resilience to legal and financial accountability. Companies that fail to take it seriously will struggle to stay competitive.”

Sustainability in Supply Chains: A Business Imperative, Not a Buzzword

During the discussion, Eddie Milev set the stage by highlighting how supply chains have moved to the forefront of corporate strategy following global disruptions—from the pandemic to shifting geopolitical tensions.

Browne agreed, emphasizing that supply chains are now a defining factor of business success: “Great companies have great supply chains. Sustainability is no longer just about risk mitigation—it’s a business opportunity. Companies that embrace it will set themselves up for success, while those that ignore it will fall behind.”

Westgarth added that within government procurement and defense contracting, sustainability is increasingly tied to resilience and long-term readiness: “Sustainable procurement is about meeting today’s needs without compromising tomorrow. In our industry, resilience is key, and sustainability plays directly into that.”

The Role of Collaboration in Industry Decarbonization

A key focus of Browne’s remarks was the need for deep collaboration between brands, manufacturers, and policymakers to accelerate decarbonization. He explained that no single brand or supplier can tackle emissions alone: “Many brands and retailers use the same factories. No individual company—whether a brand or manufacturer—can solve this alone. The only way to drive real change is through collective action.”

Westgarth echoed this, emphasizing that collaboration is equally critical in public sector supply chains. “Many industries, including defense, are now working together on shared sustainability challenges—whether through accreditation systems, carbon reporting platforms, or collaborative risk assessments. The same needs to happen in consumer goods.”

Browne reinforced that brands and manufacturers must move beyond transactional relationships and build long-term partnerships that embed sustainability into core business decisions.

Supply Chain Resilience & The Geopolitical Challenge

The conversation also touched on reshoring, nearshoring, and geopolitical tensions and how these factors impact sustainability.

Browne cautioned against moving supply chains without considering environmental impact. “If you’re changing suppliers or restructuring your supply chain, consider where you’re moving to. Are you relocating to a country investing in renewables? Can this shift be a double win—both economically and environmentally?”

Westgarth highlighted the complexity of balancing supply chain resilience with sustainability. “For some industries, nearshoring isn’t a simple fix. You might move manufacturing closer, but raw materials still need to be sourced globally. It’s about understanding the full picture.”

What’s Next? Industry Decarbonization & Cascale’s Role

Browne reaffirmed Cascale’s commitment to driving industry-wide decarbonization through collective action, transparency, and measurable impact. He emphasized that companies already know what needs to be done. “The question is no longer whether we can decarbonize. We have the technology, we have the solutions. The real question is: do we have the courage, capacity, and commitment to make it happen?”

Through the Industry Decarbonization Roadmap, Cascale continues to work with its members on practical solutions that support manufacturers and brands in achieving meaningful emissions reductions while maintaining business competitiveness.

Browne closed with a call to action. “Legislation will ebb and flow, but sustainability is not going away. Consumers expect it. Markets demand it. And the planet needs it. The companies that take action now will be the ones best positioned for the future.”

Want to Learn More?

Cascale will continue these critical conversations through its work on the Industry Decarbonization Roadmap and at key gatherings like those at the upcoming Cascale Forum: Ho Chi Minh City this May.

NORTHAMPTON, Mass., March 12, 2025 /3BL/ – 3BL, the leading sustainability and social impact communications partner, is excited to announce Chris Cutino as its new Chief Revenue Officer (CRO). With over 20 years of experience leading high-performing revenue teams and driving strategic growth, Cutino brings deep expertise in revenue optimization, client success, and business development.

As businesses increasingly seek to demonstrate the tangible impact of their sustainability efforts, Cutino will be instrumental in driving the success of 3BL clients. With a proven track record of scaling revenue operations at industry-leading organizations, he brings the expertise to help clients communicate, strategically share, and measure the impact of their responsible business initiatives with greater precision.

Cutino has successfully led revenue teams and elevated customer engagement at industry leaders including Cision, Vocus, and Celtra. Throughout his career, he has demonstrated a remarkable ability to drive business growth, having increased ARR by 53% at Celtra and expanded Cision’s revenue to over $100 million by strengthening new business development and customer engagement.

“Chris joins 3BL at a defining moment. Companies today don’t just need to communicate sustainability — they need to prove its impact. As we help businesses navigate this shift, Chris’s leadership will ensure we not only provide intelligence and strategy but also elevate responsible business as a driver of trust, reputation, and growth,” notes 3BL’s CEO, Charlie Wilkie.

Cutino’s arrival comes at a time of significant momentum for 3BL, marked by substantial enhancements to its analytics capabilities and deeper capabilities in sustainability impact reporting. His appointment reinforces the company’s mission to empower organizations to communicate their initiatives strategically, solidifying their standing as responsible, trusted brands.

“I’m honored to join 3BL, a proven leader in helping organizations transform their sustainability initiatives into measurable business value,” said Cutino. “The exceptional talent here is positioned at a critical inflection point for this industry, and I’m eager to work alongside our dedicated team, clients, and partners to accelerate our momentum. Together, we have the opportunity to revolutionize how organizations communicate their impact and maximize the return on their sustainability investments. I’m ready to roll up my sleeves and get to work.”

To learn more, visit www.3bl.com.

About 3BL 
3BL is the leading sustainability and social impact communications partner, connecting organizations’ stories of purpose and progress with the audiences who matter most.

3BL partners with over 1,500 companies – from global corporations and mid-sized enterprises to NGOs and nonprofits – to elevate their reputations as players in the world of responsible business. We do this through unrivaled news and content distribution, bespoke storytelling support, and our digital media division, TriplePundit.

Originally published on Nation’s Restaurant News

Meghan Farren has been named president of Taco Bell North America, effective Feb. 10. She has served as general manager of KFC UK and Ireland (UK&I) since September 2022.

Click here to continue reading on Nation’s Restaurant News

Originally published on 3M News Center

Mobility, work, safety, and the energy economy fundamentally shape our daily lives. Regardless of where people reside, these four areas significantly influence our home life, work environment, and community interactions.

People worldwide acknowledge the challenges associated with these topics. However, there is a prevailing sense of optimism about how each area can positively impact our future. This optimism creates opportunities for businesses and governments to collaborate, leveraging science and innovation to address today’s most pressing challenges.

“As a global leader in materials science, technology and manufacturing, 3M is uniquely positioned and committed to leading the way with transformative solutions,” said 3M’s corporate scientist and chief science advocate, Dr. Jayshree Seth. “We are dedicated to innovation and science-based problem-solving to deliver scalable, effective solutions to a world eager for progress, with a promise to help build a better future for all.”

In partnership with Morning Consult, 3M conducted original research in the areas of mobility, work, safety and energy to uncover insights and preferences of people around the world.*

Mobility finds people open to innovation, but prefer personal autonomy 

Not only do people prioritize travel via personal vehicles, but they also embrace innovation in the technology that drives them – especially as they look to the future. Only about 21% surveyed said they have electric or hybrid vehicles today—but about half, 53%, said they would prefer to have one if cost were not a factor. For now, cost is very much a factor: 80% say it’s the main concern they have about electric vehicles (EVs). Almost as many, 79%, say battery range discourages them in purchasing one, and 78% say the ability to find chargers does the same. Safety, fire risk and the environmental impact of producing lithium batteries were among other concerns.

Fortunately, ongoing innovation is actively addressing these issues. 3M is making strides in battery, adhesive, and display technologies that can make EVs lighter, safer and, easier to operate. For example, 3M Glass Bubbles make composite materials lighter, which means cars built using them can be more efficient. Specialized 3M adhesives are also enabling vehicle manufacturers to disassemble EV battery packs more efficiently, allowing them to reduce waste, enable repairs, and repurpose or recycle batteries. And 3M optical films improve in-cabin displays and vehicle connectivity to boost vehicle efficiency, provide passenger entertainment, and increase a driver’s ability to focus on the road.

Manufacturing earns respect, but many believe it offers low pay and lacks job security

Three-quarters of those surveyed view manufacturing jobs as having a positive impact on the economy and 41% associate those jobs with skilled labor. Respect for those who work manufacturing jobs is high at 78%, and 78% also support the creation of more training opportunities to fill those jobs.

Sixty-five percent of people believe new technologies will lead to more job opportunities, but 70% say they worry about automation taking these jobs away. Still, a majority, at 71%, agree the workforce needs more manufacturing jobs and 61% believe that the manufacturing job market is likely to grow in the next five years.

People also recognize the importance of technical skills: 74% say today’s manufacturing jobs require more workers with technology skills. When asked if they would steer a young person toward certain career paths, 80% said they would advise the skilled trades and 78% said STEM careers—followed closely by 75% suggesting green jobs and 68% suggesting manufacturing jobs.

To address the need for training and opportunities in manufacturing, 3M has launched several initiatives. The company created the Manufacturing and Academic Partnerships (MAP) program to give people training and hands-on experience with the engineering, computer and manufacturing skills they’ll need to work in the skilled trades. 3M is also strengthening its 40-year partnership with SkillsUSA, the nation’s premier workforce development organization, to address the country’s skilled trades gap by providing more opportunities for young people interested in the trades and manufacturing. To bring more attention to the sector and its career promise, 3M released the docuseries, Skilled, to showcase the real-life experiences of four skilled trade workers in plumbing, fall protection, welding, and film production—along with a glimpse of future opportunities.

Safety is always a concern, but in a changing workplace it takes on new meaning

Advancing technology affects not only the job market, but the physical workplace where new machines require new kinds of vigilance. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration identified automation and robotics, including human-robot interaction, as one of the top “workplace safety landscape” trends of 2025. When people think about health and safety, however, 60% of them say their concern extends to the workplace, 57% include hobbies, sports, and the home and 62% extend that to everyday activities such as traveling and shopping.

Most people, 82% of those surveyed, believe employers are responsible for workplace safety, and almost as many, 72%,currently feel their employers provide needed safety equipment. Slightly fewer at 67% feel employers provide needed safety training.

Developing products and solutions that keep people safe is a hallmark of 3M innovation. In 2020, the 3M N95 respirator became a household name as it provided vital protection against airborne contaminants related to the COVID-19 pandemic. 3M also provides virtual reality modules that train people to work at great heights, and how to properly wear harnesses that reduce the potential fall risk when performing these jobs. High-performance reflective 3M road materials make signage and crosswalks more visible, creating safer environments for everyone from children in school zones to highway workers on the road.

Most people consider new global sources of energy to be a top priority—and look to science for answers  

As nations emphasize energy security, the focus on investing in resilient energy solutions has intensified. Nearly seven out of 10 individuals expect job growth in the energy sector over the next decade and 75% believe that their governments should increase investment in creating jobs within the clean energy sector.

There is broad support for strategies like renewable energy at 79%, clean transportation at 78%, energy efficiency at 77%, and nuclear energy at 62%.

3M is using its size, scale and innovation to help address sustainability. 3M is supporting the developing hydrogen economy—from production to storage and shipping solutions. For example, just ten grams of the innovative 3M™ Nanostructured Supported Iridium Catalyst Powder can help separate ten tons of hydrogen from water while preventing 100 tons of carbon emissions annually.

Additionally, a resilient and intelligent electrical grid is essential to meet the increasing energy demands of modern economies. 3M’s Sensored Cable Accessories provide real-time data on electrical grid performance, helping utilities detect faults, optimize energy distribution, and reduce their downtime. By integrating sensors into cable accessories, these smart grid solutions can help utilities enhance predictive maintenance, minimize outages, and improve overall grid resilience. 3M’s global team is dedicated to driving innovation for customers and positioning 3M as a key collaborator in the transition to energy security.

People are aware, optimistic, and confident

Across the four critical areas of mobility, work, safety, and the energy economy, a consistent theme emerges: people recognize today’s challenges, are optimistic about tomorrow’s possibilities, and believe that solutions lie in the application of science and technology. 3M stands at this intersection, where innovation and optimism converge to drive positive impact and build a better future for all.

*Methodology:

Morning Consult conducted the poll between Nov. 19 and Dec. 17, 2024, among a national sample of 10,959 adults in each of 10 countries (U.S., U.K., Canada, Germany, France, Brazil, Mexico, China, Japan, and South Korea). The interviews were conducted online, and the data was weighted to approximate a target sample of adults for each market. Results from the full survey have a margin of error of plus or minus 3 percentage points.

DALLAS, March 12, 2025 /3BL/ – To empower future growth, iconic beauty and entrepreneurship company Mary Kay Inc. announced the appointment of Dr. Lucy Gildea as Chief Brand and Scientific Officer.

Gildea and her freshly designed cross-functional team will pioneer a new operating model to power up Mary Kay’s global brand and science aiming for growth and customer loyalty in over 40 markets. In her expanded role, Gildea will shape a powerful brand identity, image, and strategy consistent across all platforms and geographies supported by an impactful product portfolio embracing the ever-evolving needs of consumers. She and her team will activate the brand through engagement strategies harnessing the power of next-gen entrepreneurs and resonant brand storytelling to win the hearts and minds of consumers.

“With her expertise in science and beauty innovation and customer-centric approach, Lucy will lead a strategic chapter of our transformation into the future. The new Global Brand and Science organization will contribute to our mutual business success by enabling our Independent Beauty Consultants to share a transformative brand experience with their customers and thrive as personal beauty advisors, thus reinforcing the unique value proposition of direct selling,” said Ryan Rogers, Chief Executive Officer of Mary Kay and grandson of Mary Kay Ash.

Since joining Mary Kay in 2017, Gildea has focused on modernizing and enhancing the company’s competitiveness through product innovation and by improving organizational efficiencies. Gildea spent 15 years at Procter & Gamble working primarily in beauty technology and beauty/skin product development. She also held a variety of senior roles including leading development teams for upstream technology and measurement sciences across healthcare, beauty and personal care industries. During her tenure at P&G, Gildea lived in Singapore, advancing her experience with international markets.

“Mary Kay was founded on a dream to enrich women’s lives with a product portfolio rooted in science. I am confident that integrating brand and science is the winning formula to meet global consumer needs and work toward our continued success. I look forward to maximizing synergies across our teams to captivate our Independent Beauty Consultants and invite a new generation of consumers to fall in love with our brand,” said Dr. Lucy Gildea, Mary Kay’s Chief Brand and Scientific Officer.

Gildea earned a Ph.D. in Cell and Molecular Biology, Immunology, and Infectious Diseases at the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine and a Postdoctoral Research Fellowship in Immunology in a joint appointment with Cincinnati Children’s Hospital and the University of Cincinnati Department of Immunology. She also holds a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Georgetown College in Georgetown, Kentucky.

Gildea is a passionate STEM advocate for women and girls. She serves as a Board Member at Baylor Scott & White Dallas Foundation and a Board Advisor at Baylor Scott & White Charles A. Sammons Cancer Center.

This leadership appointment by Ryan Rogers honors Mary Kay Ash’s legacy of empowering women. At Mary Kay, women make up 63% of the R&D team, 54% of the executive team, and 63% of the global workforce1.

Did you know:

In 2023 and again in 2024, Mary Kay was named the #1 Direct Selling brand of skin care & color cosmetics in the world by Euromonitor International2.Mary Kay holds more than 1,600 patents for products, technologies, and packaging designs in its global portfolio3.

1 Source: Women Representation and Leadership at Mary Kay (May 2024).

2 “Source Euromonitor International Limited; Beauty and Personal Care 2024 Edition, value sales at RSP, 2023 data”

3 As of 2023.

AEG, the world’s leading sports and entertainment company, has received a 2025 Handshake Early Talent Award (ETA), recognizing it as a top employer for Gen Z talent. With Gen Z making up 27% of today’s workforce and projected to reach 30% by 2030, this award highlights AEG’s commitment to fostering early career opportunities and professional development.

The annual Handshake Early Talent Award celebrates the best employers for individuals starting their careers. AEG was selected from nearly 1 million employers using Handshake’s platform, joining an elite group of past winners that have included Adidas, Amazon, General Motors, Google, and TikTok.

“At AEG, we believe in empowering the next generation of leaders by providing meaningful career opportunities, mentorship, and a culture that fosters innovation and growth,” said Marla Anderson, VP, Talent Acquisition, AEG. “Receiving the Handshake Early Talent Award reinforces our dedication to attracting and developing young professionals who will shape the future of the sports and entertainment industry.”

Handshake is the leading career platform for Gen Z, with a network of over 17 million students, alumni, employers, and career educators. Nearly 1 million companies across the U.S. and Europe use Handshake to build their future workforce, spanning industries from Fortune 500 corporations to startups, healthcare systems, school districts, and federal agencies.

By earning this distinction, AEG continues to demonstrate its leadership in workforce development and its commitment to nurturing early talent across the sports and entertainment industry.

Originally published on NRG Energy Insights

By NRG Editorial Voices

Welcome to Culture in Focus, where we’re highlighting the unique workplace culture at NRG through the stories of our greatest asset: our people. Our culture is defined by the people who bring it to life every day. That’s why we’re excited to spotlight Executive Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer, Gin Kinney.

Gin’s authenticity, warmth, and humor have made her a beloved figure at NRG, where she leads a diverse and talented team. Her role touches many facets of the company — brand, communications, sustainability, philanthropy, and talent — all with one purpose: to support NRG’s mission and goals.

A team with heart

Gin’s approach to leadership is driven by her deep admiration for her team. As she puts it, “The most rewarding part of my job is coming to work with a great team. Our team has grit, has determination. We’re a bit relentless in our pursuit of achieving our goals.” Admittedly biased, Gin refers to her team as “the heartbeat of the organization,” serving a vital role in making NRG a vibrant place to work and helping the company fulfill its mission.

What makes Gin’s team unique is their unstoppable drive paired with a sense of togetherness. “At times, we move at a pace that’s not for the faint of heart,” Gin shares with a laugh. “But we do this with an incredible amount of heart.” It’s this blend of persistence and compassion that helps build collaboration.

Where communication and culture align

It’s no surprise that Gin is passionate about communication. For her, it’s the backbone of any thriving culture. “One of the things I attribute to building a strong culture is communication, communication, communication,” she emphasized. “When our employees have clarity, then we can create alignment. And alignment creates an opportunity for all of us to work together.”

This clarity and alignment allow NRG to celebrate the unique perspectives within the company, while still moving forward as one cohesive team. “We can be different and still aligned,” Gin noted. For her, a unified culture doesn’t mean conformity, but rather a shared purpose that gives everyone the ability to be their best selves while guiding the company forward.

Leading with vision

Gin’s understanding of culture goes beyond words. As a professional communicator, she acknowledges the power of language but is quick to stress that actions speak louder. “Culture isn’t just about words. It’s about action and the behaviors we choose to take every day and how we show up for each other and for ourselves.”

Being a role model is important for leaders; it drives culture, purpose, and vision. As part of NRG’s executive management team, Gin plays an essential part in shaping the company’s strategy for the future, clearly articulating it, and analyzing what success looks like. “Culture plays a huge part in that because culture [affects how we] attract, retain, and develop talent.”

Embracing diversity and supporting growth

Gin is a strong advocate for diversity. “As a senior executive at NRG who also happens to be a woman, I think it’s important that we have pathways for other female leaders to grow and develop throughout the company.” Having had diverse mentors who championed her career, Gin recognizes the importance of allies in fostering diverse leadership.

Looking forward, she’s excited about how NRG is evolving to provide more personalized development opportunities for employees. “We’re moving from a jobs-based model to more of a skills-based model,” she explained. “How do we continue to refine? Upskill. Offer people more opportunities to have mobility around the company and learn new things.”

This big-picture approach is part of what makes NRG a leader at the intersection of energy and technology. As Gin proudly stated,

“The most exciting thing about working at NRG right now is that we really are doing something different. We’re honoring our past of being a power generator, providing electricity and natural gas solutions to our customers. But we’re also thinking about how we can deliver for our customers things that are more sustainable and that fit their lives in a better way.”

The renowned publisher Malcolm Forbes once said that diversity is “the art of thinking independently together.” This mirrors Gin’s leadership philosophy: diverse perspectives and thinking independently together are the building blocks of a strong, united culture. She also believes that being a leader is an equal-opportunity proposition: “Leadership doesn’t have to sit in a particular box in the organization chart. It’s about how you show up and the accountability you take.”

By encouraging open communication, championing diversity, and leading with purpose, she’s helping shape a culture where everyone can thrive.

Want to connect with Gin? Visit her LinkedIn here.

Want to learn more about the unique culture at NRG Energy?

Be on the lookout for more installments of the Culture in Focus series.