Susan Hardwick
Vectren
2011 Maverick

Kris Nichols
Nicor Gas
2010 Maverick

Patty Walker
Duke Energy
2009 Maverick

The Maverick Award gives special recognition to leaders who have set the standard in promoting, connecting and strengthening female leaders in energy operations and engineering. The Maverick Award is presented annually to a man or woman who actively participates in the advancement of women in leadership, who knows an organization is stronger with a diverse leadership team, who believes in the empowerment of women, who understands the importance of recognition and opportunities for women, who advocates for the professional advancement of women, and who acknowledges the full talents, capabilities, and organizational benefits of women in energy operations and engineering.

Check back for the 2012 Nomination Process

Statements about the nominee should be no more than 500 words and should include (but are not limited to) the following information:

• Leadership: A leader establishes strategic direction and guides an organization towards the vision. What has the nominee done to stand out as a role model and leader by increasing the pool of promotable women in energy operations and engineering? What strategy has the nominee established and implemented to broaden the leadership diversity within the organization?
• Mentoring: A mentor gives personal attention to a subordinate or coworker, and is well known as a wise and trusted counselor. How has the nominee taken personal accountability to help a female leader(s) to grow? How has this mentor been an influential sponsor for women leaders? Do they donate their time to educate, guide, or counsel women? How has the nominee motivated women to excel and grow into valued leaders?
• Advocacy: An advocate speaks and acts on behalf of female leaders in the organization to advance their opportunities and value within the enterprise. How has the nominee championed Energetic Women in order to increase their opportunities or encourage leadership growth and development? What opportunities has this maverick created in order to promote women into non-traditional leadership roles? In what ways does this trail blazer support and advocate on behalf of the women leaders in the industry?

Please also include any past recognition the nominee has received for their achievements in these areas. Nominators are encouraged to submit up to two supporting materials on behalf of the nominee as appropriate, including press clippings and/or testimonials.