We love being a part of the communities we power. From providing education programs, donating to food banks and our employees volunteering at non-profits - we aim to provide comfort and support to our customers.

Behind the scenes of the endeavor is our External Affairs team. Tyna Reiter, External Affairs coordinator, says her role at I&M is the perfect fit for her and she is an advocate for community volunteering. 

How long have you worked at I&M and in what roles? 

I started at I&M in April of last year. So, I am almost at the one-year mark - yay! This role is a perfect fit for me. I have a lot of past experience in non-profit fundraising, events and volunteer management. I take a lot of those skills and apply them at I&M in unique ways.

How would you describe your job to someone?

The coordinator of many things -- that kind of sums it up really. From tracking community events, volunteer efforts and helping with charitable gifts - it's all in a day's work. Honestly, I have a lot of spreadsheets to keep me organized.

I also lead our year-round support for the United Way and volunteering associated with the effort. If you haven't participated in a volunteer opportunity, I definitely encourage it. I want to give a special thank you to I&M leadership for supporting and encouraging employee volunteering. I think it's a great tool to provide team building opportunities and increase employee morale.

What have you learned in your time with I&M?

So much honestly. I had no idea how large our company is and how many different roles there are to provide reliable and safe power to our communities. I learn something new daily and have so much appreciation for the work it takes to do what we do.

What is your favorite part about your job and working at I&M?

When I was younger, I always said my dream job would be to become a secret millionaire who gives away money to deserving people. Working on the External Affairs team gives me the next best thing.

I don't have to have the funds myself to help awesome causes do what they do, at I&M and our parent company, AEP, we have the AEP Foundation who generously supports each community with effort to grow and care for our communities. I love being able to play a role in that.

Can you share the best career advice you’ve been given?

A previous boss and great friend would say, "cream always rises to the top -- so just do you." She also said I should never be scared to better myself, even if it means leaving a team you love for a better opportunity.

What do you enjoy doing outside of work?

I love to spend time with friends and family, to paint and I am really trying to master the skill of snowboarding (it’s not as easy as it looks).

If you are interested in joining the I&M and AEP team, click here to learn more about the wide-variety of careers we offer.