Debra Cameron-Williams is the executive administrative assistant to Muhammad Sohail, the Head of Switchgear Americas for Grid Technologies at Siemens Energy. She supports the entire leadership team and facility of over 400 people, managing supplies, IT orders, travel and expense reporting. Her dedication and hard work have made her an integral part of the team. But her responsibilities go far beyond just administrative tasks. She is the team lead for inclusion and diversity (I&D) at the Richland, Mississippi, location and has been instrumental in organizing events that encourage camaraderie between people from all walks of life.
“We must create an environment where everyone feels like they are included, accepted and understood. A workplace that celebrates cultures, religions, individuals, and that embraces our differences. A workplace where we unite to develop true inclusion," says Debra when asked about her role in the company.
What Debra loves most about working at Siemens Energy is the family atmosphere at the plant. Her boss, Muhammad Sohail, has truly become a friend, making it a joy to come to work every day.
"Creating a sense of community is essential to the success of any organization, and I’m proud to be a part of a company that values its employees and their unique perspectives," says Debra.
The I&D program she manages brings together employees who wouldn't usually interact, uniting employees to form one team - the Richland #TeamPurple.
As the I&D lead, Debra organizes events such as the recent Veteran's Day event featuring keynote speaker Brigadier General (R) Steven Rhoades, who is also Siemens Energy Head of EHS & Security North America. The event featured the local high school marching band, choir, and JROTC. Among many other events throughout the year, she coordinates monthly birthday celebrations, Earth Day celebrations where employees receive a tree to take home and plant, and Women's History Month and Black History Month events highlighting important historical figures.
