Jeff McDonald

Leading Tuscumbia Utilities as General Manager for the last eight years, Jeff McDonald knows how vital it is to prepare his system for the future. He offered the following thoughts regarding his LPC’s approach to the implementation of new technology:

“I always try to look for technology that can make our service better and ensure our customers’ lives are continuously improved. We implemented online payments and applications during Covid, and a lot of those processes will continue to evolve as we look to provide more online options for our customers in the future. We’re looking forward to transitioning to AMR as well, which will be a tremendous asset to both our customers and our team, with the ability to provide real-time data and potentially heading off any unnecessary energy usage. We know that this will improve the quality of our customers’ lives, and that’s ultimately what fuels every decision we make.”

Jeff knows that this industry evolves rapidly, and he shared how Seven States can help LPCs navigate the innovative changes in the Valley.

“Seven States’ intentional presence at district meetings and other events around the Valley is valuable for LPCs who might not know where to start on implementing innovation. They’re always ready to share what works, what doesn’t, and are knowledgeable in a wide variety of technologies, whether it be EV chargers, solar, batteries, or anything else coming down the road. It’s nice to see somebody that’s actually in a boots-on-the-ground role and to hear from other LPCs that have had successful projects with them.”

When asked about what advice he’d give to a new manager who wants to pursue innovation, Jeff shared that it’s important to keep the customer at the heart of every decision.

“Every single day, you have to do what’s best for the ratepayer. They are your lifeline, and you have to steward their resources and go above and beyond to serve them well. With a smaller system, sometimes the timing for new projects just isn’t right yet, but with each decision you make, as long as you’re confident that what you’re doing is truly the best thing for the ratepayer, your community will benefit greatly.”

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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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