Brian Taylor: Valley Innovation Ambassador
October 18, 2023

Brian Taylor knows how vital innovative partnerships and technology are in preparing the grid for the future.

Brian has led CDE Lightband as general manager since 2012 with a deep understanding of technological diversity and strategic partnerships. We asked him to share his experience deploying past projects with Seven States.

“Seven States has been pivotal in our transformation and preparation for the future. Quite honestly, it’s been a game-changer in what we’re doing. There’s so much change in our industry, and it’s coming at such a fast pace, that we can’t stay on top of everything internally. Seven States provides the resources we need at our fingertips, and with every project we’ve deployed, they’ve been with us every step of the way.”

Brian always considers how his customers view CDE Lightband’s investments in innovation.

“I want our customers to know that we are leaders in our industry and are bringing things into the system to improve system reliability and resiliency. Everything that we do – every single decision, whether it’s bringing in a new outage management system or being intentional in our social media communications – every decision is made to do our job more efficiently and at less cost to the customers.”

With 42 years of industry experience, Brian has learned that partnerships are fundamental to being an innovative leader. He offered this advice to general managers who might need support in bringing innovation to their community.

“My advice to any new GM in this industry would be to reach out to your peers. That’s first and foremost: reach out to folks who have already done it; don’t try to do it alone because there’s such power in collaboration. And then, secondly, call Seven States. That’s how important they are to the Valley. Any innovative-forward GM you reach out to would likely encourage you to call Seven States. ”

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Here We Grow Again! Seven States Welcomes Kim Shumpert as VP of Public Relations

By Jessica Bradshaw • June 9, 2025
Seven States Power Corporation is pleased to announce the appointment of Kim Shumpert as Vice President of Public Relations. Shumpert brings over two decades of experience in growing the capacity and impact of multiple organizations within both the public and private sectors. With both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in Public Administration, Shumpert brings a distinguished background in executive leadership, having guided regional economic development initiatives and directed comprehensive communication strategies across diverse platforms. Her experience includes successfully managing media relations and fostering strong partnerships. In her new role as Vice President of Public Relations, Shumpert will spearhead efforts to increase the organization’s impact, deepen stakeholder engagement, and advance the mission of empowering LPCs to meet growing consumer demand for technology and innovation in an evolving utility landscape. “We are thrilled to welcome Kim to our team,” said Betsey Kirk McCall, Seven States President & CEO. “Her proven ability to build meaningful relationships and communicate with purpose aligns perfectly with our vision for growth and engagement.” Shumpert joins Seven States at a pivotal time in the energy industry. Her leadership will play a crucial role in supporting Seven States Power Corporation’s ongoing commitment to leveraging technology to design, develop, and deploy forward-thinking energy solutions in partnership with LPCs and the communities they serve.  Seven States Power Corporation is a trusted partner to 153 local power companies across the Tennessee Valley, delivering customized energy and generation solutions and supporting community success through technology and innovation. To stay up to date on Seven States projects, announcements, and news, subscribe to our newsletter .
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