The Bright Side

When I moved to Montana in 2021 to take the position of Director of Regulatory Affairs at NorthWestern Energy, I didn’t entirely know what to expect. As an Asian-American woman, I knew I would be a minority at NorthWestern Energy and in Montana. It was such a beautiful surprise to arrive and feel completely welcome. No one seemed to bat an eye at my skin color; everyone seemed more focused on my move from sunny San Diego, California, to snowy Helena, Montana.

I was born in Taiwan, and my family moved to the United States when I was 2 so my father could pursue a Ph.D. in aerospace engineering at a university in Tennessee. After he graduated, we moved to Sacramento, California, and as an adult, I settled in San Diego, where I worked for San Diego Gas and Electric. For my two sons growing up in California, race was not an issue for them, and I’ve been so happy to see that no one treats them differently here in Montana, either.

For my part, I have found NorthWestern Energy to be incredibly inclusive. From my first day on the job, I felt like I had a seat at the table and that my thoughts and opinions were listened to and valued. Diversity is important, but without inclusion – the willingness to listen to diverse views and opinions – diversity doesn’t mean much.

When I first thought about writing this column, I wasn’t sure I wanted to talk about my race. I’ve never been one to raise my hand and call myself out. However, the fact is, whether I point it out or not, I don’t look like most of my colleagues. In Montana, about 1% of the population is Asian, but that doesn’t mean Montana is a hostile environment. In my experience, it’s been just the opposite – an incredibly welcoming place that my family and I are now happy to call home. At NorthWestern, I found colleagues care more about my skills and experience and my fit and willingness to be part of the team.

At NorthWestern, I am lucky to work with an amazing group of 1,530 dedicated employees. It’s thanks to all my hard-working colleagues that we’re able to keep the lights shining and the heat running even in the harshest conditions. The employees here are quick to step in and help a co-worker in need. And while it’s a tight-knit bunch, they’re also incredibly welcoming to new employees. Since joining the company two years ago, I moved into the position of Vice President – Regulatory. At all levels of the company, I have found everyone to be eager to share their knowledge with me and to be interested in what I bring to the table.

I hope you enjoy reading this issue of Bright magazine. In the People issue, we aim to share a glimpse into what makes our employees and retirees so amazing. You’ll read about a South Dakota employee who has led our United Way Day of Caring efforts for more than a decade. You’ll also find a story about a Montana lineman who plays in a band and earned a gold record when one of his songs became a TikTok hit. The stories in this magazine are just a few examples of the incredible people whom I’m proud to work with at NorthWestern Energy.

Cyndee Fang Vice President – Regulatory