Laurie Spears
About Laurie Spears
Laurie Spears serves as the Managing Director of Siting, Outreach & Right of Way at American Electric Power, where she has worked since 2020. She holds a Bachelor's Degree in Biology from the College of Charleston and a Master's Degree in Environmental Science from the University of Colorado at Denver.
Current Role at American Electric Power
Laurie Spears serves as the Managing Director of Siting, Outreach & Right-of-Way at American Electric Power. She has held this position since 2020. In her role, she oversees various aspects related to siting and outreach, ensuring that the company's projects align with regulatory requirements and community interests.
Previous Experience at American Electric Power
Laurie Spears has extensive experience at American Electric Power, where she worked in several key positions. She served as a Senior Transmission Line Siting Specialist from 2016 to 2020, focusing on the siting of transmission lines. She also held the role of Director of Transmission Asset Strategy for 11 months in 2020 and was the Transmission Asset Strategy Manager from 2018 to 2020, contributing to strategic planning and asset management.
Education and Expertise
Laurie Spears earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Biology from the College of Charleston, studying from 1999 to 2003. She also holds a Master of Science in Environmental Science from the University of Colorado at Denver, which she completed between 2006 and 2008. Additionally, she obtained a Financial Management Certificate from Cornell University, enhancing her expertise in financial aspects related to her field.
Career Background in Energy Sector
Laurie Spears has a diverse background in the energy sector. Before her tenure at American Electric Power, she worked at Xcel Energy as a Senior Siting and Land Rights Agent from 2014 to 2016. She also served as a Project Manager at The Louis Berger Group for one year in 2013-2014. Earlier in her career, she was a Transmission Siting and Environmental Planner at Tri-State Generation & Transmission from 2008 to 2012.