[New] Five Questions SHAWN PATTERSON

Shawn Patterson is the President & Chief Executive Officer of Southern Star. He joined the company in 2017 and has over 27 years of experience in the natural gas Industry. He and his wife, Renee, have one son, Cameron and two daughters, Emma and Lillian. They moved to Owensboro in 2018 and fell in love with the community.

BY ASHLEY WEDDING

WHAT IS THE BIGGEST LESSON YOU HAVE LEARNED IN YOUR PROFESSIONAL CAREER?

Great leadership will lead to more success than any strategy ever will. Relationships are essential to everything you and your companies want to accomplish. Hard work, pays off. Be inclusive and listen.

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WHAT DO YOU SEE AS OWENSBORO’S BIGGEST CHALLENGE/GREATEST POTENTIAL FOR GROWTH?

Owensboro has a strong foundation for future success. Elected officials, the Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce, Owensboro-Daviess County Industrial Foundation, our school systems, business, and industry partners must continue to encourage and grow diversity in our community. A proactive collaborative approach will foster a diverse community where all citizens are fully involved and feel their voices are heard.

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WHAT ROLE DO YOU SEE SOUTHERN STAR PLAYING IN OWENSBORO AND HOW DO YOU HOPE TO CONTRIBUTE TO OUR COMMUNITY?

Southern Star is committed to being an innovative corporate partner in our community. We love giving back to local nonprofits and collaborating with business and industry to move our city forward. I am personally on multiple local boards and have a child in our public school system. Giving back in all these areas is my passion. Together, we are building today for tomorrow’s future.

Southern Star is always looking for ways to partner with the community for the promotion of diversity, equity, and inclusion.

WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR YOUNG PROFESSIONALS NEW IN THEIR CAREERS?

I encourage young professionals to get involved, listen, learn, and have passion for all that they do. Be open and inclusive in your thought process. Don’t be afraid of trying something new and making mistakes. Bloom where you are planted…you will get noticed.

HOW CAN PROFESSIONALS BECOME MORE INVOLVED AND BETTER SERVE THE COMMUNITY?

Find something you are passionate about and be proactive in seeking out opportunities. Volunteer your time and always know that you can make a difference every day!