Stacey Dedeaux models leadership at work, in the community

Transmission Engineer Specialist Stacey Dedeaux has worked at Mississippi Power for 20 years, following the family footsteps of her dad and an uncle to the company.

“Though I was uncertain about what I wanted to do, I knew I was going to work for a good company,” she said. “Growing up, I had heard about working with Mississippi Power from my father, Larry Dedeaux, and my uncle, Ronnie Dedeaux, who are both retired from the company.”

While Dedeaux has remained in the Substations department, her position and roles have grown and changed through the years.

Budget reports and substation field inventory are part of her routine work. She is also the compliance coordinator for the department, is on the Substations System Protection & Control safety committee, and maintains the company’s transmission website along with Luke Goodyear, senior transmission analyst.

When not on the job, Dedeaux enjoys boating and traveling.

“I like warm weather and the sunshine,” she said. “My college friends and I have started to take an annual trip. We’ve been to Mexico, Puerto Rico, Laguna Beach and Dove Mountain in Arizona.”

Her work as a volunteer for Harrison County Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) is rewarding but challenging.

“I’ve worked with CASA for 2-3 years now,” she said. “As a volunteer, you are given a case and stay with that case until it is closed. Some of the children have been removed from their home by the court and we work to help find them a foster home. Others require weekly monitoring within their home and if it is possible, CASA wants to reunite the family. “

This volunteer work begins with a background check followed by a series of courses and continuing education courses. “I admire the people who do this work for a living. Some of the cases really get to you and they can stay with you for a long time,” she said.

Dedeaux also enjoys fitness. She has participated in five Crescent City Classics and recently began a six-month B.E. Fit program, which is a local boot camp style exercise regimen.

“I was encouraged to join by my co-worker Julio Gonzales, and though he says burpees are his favorite thing, they are not mine,” said Dedeaux.

“While I do like to travel, probably what I love most is Ole Miss and especially Ole Miss football. I make a few games a year and really enjoyed the last two season’s games against Alabama. And I’m really looking forward to this season when we play them in Oxford.”