SWEPCO Welcomes New Leadership in Finance and Regulatory Affairs
Southwestern Electric Power Company (SWEPCO) has recently appointed Melissa Gage as the new Vice President of Regulatory Affairs and Finance. Gage will officially begin her role on October 26, succeeding Tom Brice, who will retire in December following a 32-year tenure with the company. Her leadership will span SWEPCO’s service areas in Arkansas, Louisiana, and Texas, operating primarily from AEP's offices in Austin.
Experience and Vision
Gage has been a pivotal member of SWEPCO's regulatory team, contributing significantly to numerous regulatory filings and proceedings. According to Brett Mattison, SWEPCO’s president and COO, Gage's extensive legal expertise, proactive approach, and dedication to building relationships are essential for SWEPCO's commitment to serving its customers effectively.
Melissa Gage joined American Electric Power (AEP), the parent company of SWEPCO, in 2015, offering legal counsel to SWEPCO and other AEP operations in Texas. Her career advanced in 2020 when she was promoted to Associate General Counsel for AEP's western regulatory division. Her responsibilities included leading a team of attorneys in regulatory matters across several commissions, including the Louisiana Public Service Commission and the Oklahoma Corporation Commission.
Background and Education
Before her tenure at AEP, Gage worked with a law firm in Austin, representing utility clients in regulatory issues before various Texas commissions. She holds a Bachelor of Business Administration in Finance and a Bachelor of Arts in Spanish from the University of Texas at Austin, and a Juris Doctor (JD) from Southern Methodist University.
Strategic Goals and Transition
Gage expresses enthusiasm for her new role, highlighting her commitment to delivering smart solutions that benefit customers and states while advancing SWEPCO’s goals. Her predecessor, Tom Brice, will remain with the company until the end of the year to ensure a smooth transition.
"I appreciate Tom for his dedicated service," Mattison stated, commending Brice's contributions to the diversification of SWEPCO's generation fleet and his heartfelt service to the community and company.
SWEPCO and its leadership will continue to focus on enhancing regulatory relationships, pursuing strategic priorities, and delivering safe, reliable, and affordable energy to all its customers.
