Michael Watkins

About Michael Watkins

I love to solve puzzles, even (and sometimes, especially) with limited knowledge and in technically challenging, high-stress situations.For me, there’s always a way. And I’m motivated by the challenge of overcoming adversity to find it.I have a knack for seeing alternative paths to solutions that others miss. I view things holistically, which allows me to coordinate varied resources and actions to achieve creative solutions to technical problems.As an electric industry expert in operational excellence with over 20 years of experience leading power grid operations and crisis management, I’m frequently called upon to create strategies to adapt to ever-changing regulatory requirements and market conditions. Most notably, I led the replacement of an Energy Management System, developing an RFP with 975 separate written requirements for the new system, and delivered it on time and on budget.I amass new knowledge quickly, not just for the joy of it, but also for the opportunity to apply it in meaningful ways. I’m probably the only Eagle Scout and Navy veteran who is a NERC Certified Reliability Coordinator System Operator and who also holds an MBA and a Masters in Finance.Because of that, I’m able to bridge the gap between the technical and financial effortlessly; I have experience on the operations and liabilities side, and also I understand the money side of contracts and marketing power.And in the rapidly changing electrical energy landscape, there will be a need to provide innovative total solutions in operational awareness, technical skills, and regulatory knowledge. Fortunately, I’m up for the challenge. HAVE A PROBLEM THAT NEEDS SOLVING? LET’S CONNECT: I regularly consult with industry leaders on complex regional power and energy management issues. For help, message me here or email me at m••••••••@pm.me.Specialties: Transmission operations Balancing operations Resource adequacy Energy management systems NERC compliance Renewable integration

Experience

1. Transmission Operations Strategic Policy Advisor

   Seattle City Light

   Dec 2020 — Present · Seattle, WA, US

Education

• Webster University

  Master of Business Administration (MBA), Crisis/Emergency/Disaster Management, Entrepreneurship

  1998

• UW Foster School of Business

  MBA Update Seminar , Stategic Communications and Negotiations

  2015

• Webster University

  Masters in Finance, International Finance

  1995 — 1998

• Excelsior University

  Bachelor of Science - BS, Political Science and Government

  1995