Leading with Integrity: Angie Byford’s Journey from Union Roles to Utility Leadership

When Angie Byford reflects on her career path at SEMO Electric Cooperative, she sees a journey defined not by titles but by courage, authenticity, and an unwavering commitment to integrity. From her beginnings in Member Services in a union role to her current leadership position, each step has shaped her approach to leading others.

Finding Her Own Voice

Angie recalls that early in her career, she respected the union's role but realized it didn't align with her natural operating style.

“I’ve always felt confident using my own voice and advocating for myself,” she says. “That experience helped me recognize how important it is to create space for individual voices—even within a collective.”

Although her independence was sometimes met with pushback, it reaffirmed her conviction to stay true to herself. Over time, Angie learned to navigate challenging dynamics with professionalism—a skill she now models for others. Each transition along her career path taught her how to listen deeply, lead with empathy, and strike a balance between structure and flexibility. Today, her leadership philosophy is rooted in encouraging others to speak up, grow into their strengths, and bring their authentic selves to the table.

Breaking Barriers with Confidence

Having thrived in both field and administrative roles, Angie offers candid advice to women entering traditionally male-dominated parts of the utility sector.

“Don’t wait to be invited—show up, speak up, and trust that you belong in the room,” she emphasizes.

Her approach has never been about labels but about hard work, professionalism, and integrity. She acknowledges that women in the field face real challenges—sometimes not being taken as seriously or having to work harder to prove themselves. Her solution: show up consistently with confidence, a willingness to learn, and a commitment to personal values.

“Confidence isn’t about knowing everything—it’s about being willing to learn, to ask questions, and to stand firm in your values,” she notes. She encourages women to find mentors—male or female—who will advocate for them, while also paying it forward by mentoring others.

Mentorship Rooted in Honesty and Compassion

Mentorship is a cornerstone of Angie’s leadership. For her, strong mentors are defined by honesty delivered with compassion. “A good mentor doesn’t just tell you what you want to hear—they tell you what you need to hear, but in a way that helps you grow.”

Her relationship with SEMO's CEO illustrates this principle. Built on mutual respect, their dynamic allows for candid coaching in both directions. Angie views her role as modeling what it means to speak up, even when it's uncomfortable, and encouraging others to do the same. Uplifting others, she believes, isn't just about encouragement—it’s about challenging them to grow while providing the tools and support to succeed.

Investing in the Next Generation

Looking ahead, Angie is most excited about advancing leadership development for younger employees at SEMO. As longtime employees begin to step back, she wants to ensure the next generation is prepared not just to fill roles, but to lead with authenticity and innovation.

“Innovation doesn’t just come from new technology—it comes from new thinking,” she explains. By identifying potential early, mentoring intentionally, and creating opportunities for employees to stretch and grow, she sees a path toward a thriving future for the cooperative.

Living a Legacy of Integrity

For Angie, being recognized with the Women Who SPARK Award is not about being on a list or earning recognition—it’s about the legacy she leaves for her family.

“I want my husband, children, and grandchildren to be proud of who I am—not just what I do,” she says. “What matters to me is that they see the character, work ethic, and integrity that brought me here—and that those values live on in future generations.”