| | 9 NOVEMBER 2025manage this by prioritizing IT investments based on strategic business needs and conducting thorough cost-benefit analyses.STRATEGIC PLANNING: METHODS OF MANAGING BUSINESS GROWTH WITH EMERGING TECHNOLOGIESAt Southwest Gas we strategically plan and manage growth with emerging technologies through a systematic method. It involves aligning technology initiatives with business goals, building a culture of innovation and continuously optimizing performance. The method also assesses the current business and technology space by understanding both the short and long-term goals. We also evaluate the existing technology infrastructure and identify the areas of strength, weakness and improvement. Our method is all about developing a comprehensive technology roadmap that aligns with the business strategy by identifying a clear vision and specific objectives. All this is done along with a detailed timeline with milestones and a plan to allocate resources for budget, personnel and technology infrastructure.Another method that we have resorted to is investing in training programs to upskill our employees and establishing innovation labs and centers of excellence to encourage experimentation and innovation within the organization.COLLABORATING WITH TOP LEADERSHIP TO ALIGN THE COMPANY'S STRATEGY WITH ITS OVERALL VISIONWe employ a multifaceted approach to align Southwest Gas's technology strategy with its overall vision and long-term goals. This includes defining clear objectives, establishing strong communication channels, and building a cross-functional team with representation from all critical areas. We also conduct assessments of the current technology landscape to develop a unified vision, prioritize initiatives, create detailed roadmaps, and foster a culture of collaboration. We ensure success by engaging key stakeholders throughout the process and using data and analytics to inform them of strategic decisions. Implementing effective change management is another way we ensure smooth transitions. These are ways by which Southwest Gas's leaders work together to guarantee that the company's technology strategy is aligned with its overall business goals, improving efficiency and competitive advantage.PLANS TO ENSURE SUCCESSFUL IMPLEMENTATION OF LARGE-SCALE TECHNOLOGY PROJECTSAt Southwest Gas, a structured approach is required to ensure the successful initiation, execution, and completion of large-scale technology projects. We employ standard policies for project governance and leadership while also using our Enterprise Project Management Office (EPMO) to provide guidelines and ensure consistent practices.The roles and responsibilities are clearly defined for sponsors, managers, and team members. We also secure executive sponsorship that provides the necessary resources and support. Our teams regularly update the risk management plan and conduct risk assessments to identify and mitigate potential risks. We have established communication plans detailing how to share information with stakeholders and team members and use collaborative tools for seamless communication.We also established a formal change control process to manage scope changes and ensure they are evaluated and approved before implementation. This process also includes effectively communicating changes to all stakeholders and adjusting plans as necessary.Finally, a formal project closure process includes delivering documentation, stakeholder sign-off, and a post-implementation review to evaluate outcomes and identify areas for improvement. ADVICE TO LEADERS Aspiring professionals should focus on personal development, strategic thinking, practical skills, and networking to be successful in a leadership role. I would suggest being self-aware and identifying strengths, weaknesses, values, and motivations by using tools like Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats (SWOT) analysis and personality assessments.Individuals should reflect upon the past experience to understand what personally energizes and drains them. They should stay updated on industry trends and work on self-regulation, empathy, and social skills. Developing strong communication skills, thinking strategically, and balancing innovative ideas with practical implementation are also critical. I suggest building a robust professional network within and outside the organization and engaging with mentors, industry peers, and technology leaders from other industries to exchange ideas and gain insights. This will help aspiring leaders develop the skills, mindset, and connections necessary for effective and successful leadership. Individuals should develop skills and connections by focusing on clear and persuasive communication with different audiences. This will help them build a strong professional network and connect with mentors, peers, and industry leaders to share ideas.
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