ARLINGTON, Va. — The National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) today announced the hiring of energy industry veteran Bridget Bartol as Executive Director, Industry and Regulatory Affairs for the Grid. Bartol brings more than 15 years of policy and regulatory experience to NEMA, most recently serving as Deputy Chief of Staff and Senior Advisor to the Secretary at the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and previously as Deputy Director for the Office of Public Affairs for DOE.
Electrical manufacturers provide essential infrastructure for a modernized grid: from copper wire and transformers to smart grid solutions and digital substation technologies. NEMA members’ products are integral to meeting rising electricity demand in a safe, cybersecure, and resilient manner. In her new role, Bartol will lead NEMA’s grid strategy, working closely with utility partners, regulatory agencies, and trade allies to achieve shared objectives for a robust, efficient, and reliable U.S. electrical grid.
“Electrical manufacturers are at the epicenter of growing energy demand driven by the electrification of our economy, including rapid demand increases from data centers and e-mobility. Bridget’s deep understanding of energy policy, the regulatory landscape, and the challenges facing the electric grid will serve the industry well during this pivotal moment,” said Debra Phillips, President and CEO of NEMA. “Her leadership strengthens our work to advance grid reliability and the rapid deployment of advanced electrical technologies to meet this rising demand.”
“I’m excited to join NEMA at a time when the grid is central to nearly every major economic and national priority,” said Bartol. “I look forward to working with NEMA’s members to advance a clear, coordinated policy and regulatory agenda that continues to spur investment, strengthen reliability, and deliver the infrastructure needed for a modern, secure electric grid.”
Bartol’s appointment completes NEMA’s leadership team focused on key end markets for the electrical industry:
- Bridget Bartol, Executive Director, Grid
- Steve Griffith, Executive Director, Mobility
- Todd Simms, Senior Director, Built Environment
- Zack Valdez, Senior Director, Smart Manufacturing & Industrial Automation
Together, this team advances electrical manufacturers’ priorities through policy solutions, industry standards, and market research that facilitates deployment of electrical technologies during this time of unprecedented demand.