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California State University, Long Beach
 

Cheryl A. Raine

Cheryl Raine

Women Engineers @ the Beach Keynote Speaker, Spring 2001

  • Portfolio Manager
  • Gas Construction and Materials Supply Management, Sempra Energy

What I am doing today?

Currently, I manage the people and processes that are responsible for contracting services and materials related to natural gas distribution and transmission pipeline systems for Sempra Energy. What does that mean? It means that my team of employees writes contracts for over 100 million dollars a year in construction services. In addition they write contracts for materials as well as purchase over 80 million dollars of materials. My team supports The Gas Company, San Diego Gas and Electric and other Sempra Energy companies.

Where did I start?

I started as an Engineering Intern in the Marketing Department conducting energy surveys for small commercial and industrial customers. Then in May of 1982 the job market took a dive and only one graduating senior had a job prior to graduation. I took a month off and went to Europe. Upon return The Gas Company offered me a position within their Engineering Department. Over the past 16 years I have held 13 positions! My engineering degree opened wide the windows of opportunity at The Gas Company. I started in traditional technical engineering positions, but knew earlier on that I didn't want to be a "techie" because I was much productive being involved with other people and processes. So it should not surprise you that I have over 12 years of experience in supervising, team leading and managing organizations. Some highlights include a five-mile 26-inch pipeline replacement job, being a Leadership and Team Building Facilitator for a program implemented company wide, and leading teams of people to complete projects or run an organization.

Words of advice?

People, People, People - It's rare you succeed alone! Take every opportunity there is to work together with a diverse group of people to accomplish a common goal. Communicate, Communicate, Communicate - You'll need strong verbal and written communication skills everyday on the job. And finally, start building relationships now that will get you in the door of the company you are interested in working for.

What do I do in my spare time?

I enjoy volleyball, softball and snow skiing. I enjoy reading and consume over 35 books a year. I also enjoy music and still play violin, and dabble at flute and piano. My family (husband and 16 year-old twin sons) and I enjoy taking our two dogs camping and hiking. I am also very active in leadership roles within the Presbyterian Church (USA). Spare time…. I use it all!

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