Our Team

TVPPA’s dedicated staff works alongside members to support their success, offering expert guidance, resources, and personalized service. From everyday challenges to long-term strategy, we’re here to help local power companies thrive.
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Executive Leadership

Doug Peters

Doug Peters is a 40-year electric utility veteran with experience in a wide variety of generation, transmission and distribution-related positions. 

He holds an undergraduate degree in electrical engineering from the Georgia Institute of Technology and a Master's Degree in Business Administration from the University of Tennessee. He is a Rossville, Ga. native with three daughters, one stepson, a daughter-in-law, and five grandsons.

In his free time, Doug is an avid movie watcher and collector who could “practically quote the dialogue from almost all John Wayne films.” He spends as much time with his family as possible and finds true happiness through helping others. 

Favorite Quote: “The harder I work, the luckier I get.” – Ken McVay

Danette Scudder

Danette’s journey at TVPPA began in 2001, and since then, she’s worn many hats — starting with the Education & Training team and rising to her current role as EVP & Chief Strategy Officer. Along the way, she’s helped shape TVPPA’s programs, partnerships, and member services, all while serving as a trusted advisor on strategy, leadership, and workforce development. In addition to her day-to-day leadership responsibilities, Danette consults with local power companies on strategic planning and teaches a popular course on managing multigenerational teams.

Outside the office, Danette is always in motion — whether she’s hiking, traveling with her family, attending sporting events, or volunteering. A lifelong learner and book lover, she co-founded a book club that’s been going strong for 20 years and never misses a reading challenge.

Danette is known for her determination, dedication to service, and love of meaningful work. She’s passionate about helping others find their purpose and is always up for an adventure. 

Favorite Quote: “Out of clutter, find simplicity. Out of discord, make harmony. Out of difficulty, find opportunity.” – Albert Einstein

Carrie Buddin

Carrie Buddin holds a Master’s Degree in Education with extensive experience as an Executive Assistant supporting senior management for major government contractors in Washington, D.C. She also spent 12 years as an adjunct instructor at American Public University, teaching adult learners through online education. 

She joined TVPPA in June 2018, where she now provides comprehensive support to the executive management team as well as the TVPPA and Distributors Insurance boards. She ensures seamless communication and scheduling and takes pride in representing the team. 

She loves traveling solo here in the US and abroad. Most of all, she loves spending time with her son. 

Favorite Quote: "We are what we believe we are” – C.S. Lewis

Communications & Marketing

Jen Chaney

With a knack for simplifying complex ideas and passion for people, Jen brings a decade of marketing experience and a love of design to her role at TVPPA. A Jane-of-All-Trades, Jen’s skills are steeped in graphic design, web design, client engagement, and heart to heart communication. 

Outside of work, Jen enjoys literature, music and gardening. She’s not a chef, but Jen is certainly an amateur enthusiast; she relishes making delicious meals from scratch… and devouring them with friends and family. 

Although sometimes described as an extrovert, Jen prefers nature's solitude and looks forward to spending time on her family glampground with her husband and son. 

Favorite quote: “Let your life be like that of a rose. In silence, it speaks the language of fragrance.”

Nathalie Strickland

As a journalist turned communications pro, Nathalie has a knack for cutting through the clutter and getting to the heart of the matter. With this attribute she excels at tackling complex challenges and leveraging strategy and creativity to develop impactful solutions.

When not at work, Nathalie is on the sidelines of sporting events for her three athletic teens, or wandering in the great outdoors. Never one to shy away from an adventure, she chases sunrises and sunsets from atop mountains whenever possible.

Nathalie joined TVPPA in late 2018 and strongly values the relationships she’s built with co-workers, TVPPA members, and partners across the Valley. She leads our communications “dream team.”

Favorite Quote: “Go the extra mile. It’s never crowded.” - Anonymous

Dawn Sloan-Downes

Dawn brings more than two decades of experience in communications, marketing, and writing to TVPPA. Her career spans roles in public relations, copywriting, marketing leadership, and freelance consulting across industries ranging from retail to tech, healthcare to insurance. Since joining TVPPA in 2020, she’s been the creative force behind the association’s publications, website content, and member communications. She is always looking for meaningful stories to tell and new ways to engage.

When she’s not writing or editing, Dawn enjoys gardening, hiking with her Wheaten Terrier, Doc, and spending time with her husband and two sons playing board games, working puzzles, and watching horror movies. She’s passionate about helping others share their stories and believes in the power of good communication to connect and inspire.

Favorite Quote: "Love, in all its forms, is the most powerful weapon we have." - Doctor Who

Sue Luse

With a background in tech writing, publishing, marketing, and corporate communications, Sue is a quick study who loves turning ideas into action.  

Outside of work, Sue enjoys reading, hiking, and taking in all the Tennessee Valley has to offer—plus the occasional beach getaway. She’s determined to break 100 in her bowling average and eagerly jumps on the bandwagon for any sports playoff.

Sue joined TVPPA in 2023 and is thrilled to be among her people, contributing to successfully serving our members every day.

Favorite Quote: "Start where you are. Use what you have. Do what you can." - Arthur Ashe

Justin Metcalf

Justin Metcalf graduated from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga in May 2020 with a BA in Communication. Curious and creative at heart, he enhanced his love of writing and storytelling through his studies and as a writer at the university newspaper. 

Justin joined TVPPA in May of 2021 as a part-time Communications Coordinator. In March of 2022, he joined as a full-time Digital Marketing Specialist, managing and creating content for TVPPA’s social media pages, website, and newsletters.

Outside of work, Justin enjoys spending time in nature, watching horror movies, playing video games, and reading books.

Favorite Quote: “Opinion is the wilderness between knowledge and ignorance.” – Misty Quigley 

Education & Training

Caleb Hall

Caleb Hall joined TVPPA in 2012 as a college intern from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga and was officially hired in August 2013. Growing up in his family’s small restaurant, he worked various roles—from dishwasher to payroll administrator—gaining hands-on business experience from an early age.

Caleb has worn many hats during his time at TVPPA, coordinating training classes for members and expanding our offerings to more locations across the Valley and nationwide. 

He and his wife love animals, owning two dogs and fostering more. A devoted father of two, he enjoys activities that involve all members family, pets included.

Favorite Quote: "Yesterday is history, tomorrow is a mystery, but today is a gift. That is why it is called the present."

Kaitlin Plaster

Kaitlin Plaster joined TVPPA in September 2015 and is a key member of the Education & Training Department. She helps manage student records, coordinates instructor materials, and schedules classes. Additionally, she assists with student enrollment and oversees the ordering of textbooks and class materials. 

She enjoys spending time with her husband and child in her spare time and loves to dive into a good book. She also enjoys going whitewater rafting and camping, as long as there is a double air mattress, electricity, and bathroom nearby. 

Favorite Quote: “Stay low, stay quiet, keep it simple, don’t expect too much, enjoy what you have.” – Dean Koontz

Courtney Philpott

Courtney began her career at TVPPA as a college intern in the accounting department, working through graduation. After earning her degree, she joined the conferences and communications department full-time, taking on diverse responsibilities across both areas.

Currently, she serves as one of our dedicated Education & Training Specialists, ensuring TVPPA members receive the highest quality of offerings. 

She has a knack for baking, especially cookies, and spends her spare time with friends and family. She has explored 25 states and cherishes playdates with her best friend and their children. 

Favorite Quote: “All our dreams can come true if we have the courage to pursue them.”

Shawn Blomgren

Shawn began his career at 15, working at Winn-Dixie for a decade in various departments. In March 2000, he joined Huntsville Utilities as a groundman in the electric department, steadily advancing through the ranks. After 24 years of dedicated service, he retired as Line Supervisor.

He joined TVPPA in May 2024 and coordinates all technical education for apprentice and journey lineworker programs. He actively recruits and manages a team of technical trainers, oversees curriculum development, instructs classes, and leads ongoing and new training initiatives.

Outside of work, he enjoys spending quality time with his wife and three children and embraces any opportunity to be outdoors.  

Favorite Quote: “Would the child you were be proud of the adult that you are?”

Strategic Services

Brad Rains

Brad brings more than three decades of experience in the utility industry, with a career that spans natural gas, electric utilities, manufacturing, and insurance. From engineering roles at Atlanta Gas Light and North Georgia EMC to leadership positions in corporate affairs and manufacturing, Brad’s diverse background gives him a unique perspective on helping TVPPA members find solutions to the challenges facing their businesses today.

A dedicated family man, Brad enjoys spending time outdoors with his wife, Cherri, and their children and grandchildren. Whether he’s fishing, hiking, or simply relaxing on the back patio, you can find Brad enjoying nature when he’s not at work. He’s also deeply committed to service, volunteering with his church and Habitat for Humanity.

Brad joined TVPPA in 2018 and is passionate about helping members explore innovative solutions – from DERs and smart grid technology to broadband communications and beyond.

Favorite Quote: “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.” – The Golden Rule

Conferences & Events

Diana Bryant

Diana began her career in customer service, eventually managing a 24/7 call center with 400 employees before moving into corporate training and development. After a few years consulting and raising her children, she joined TVPPA in 2008 working part-time in our E&T department. Today, she leads the planning and execution of eight conferences plus other events each year, working closely with venues, speakers, sponsors, and member committees to create engaging, impactful experiences.

Outside of work, Diana loves spending time with her husband, Doug, and their two kids, Rett and Delaney. The family shares a love of Disney, movies, travel, and card games—and Diana’s never far from a good leadership book. She also enjoys channeling her expertise as a parent and leader into her writing.

Diana thrives on details and positivity, always looking for ways to improve the member experience and bring energy to everything she does. She’s your go-to for all things conferences—and maybe a great Disney recommendation too.

Favorite Quote: “In the end, it is not the years in your life that count, it’s the life in your years.” – Abraham Lincoln

Rebekah Hampton

Rebekah’s passion for events began at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, where she earned a degree in Sport, Outdoor Recreation, and Tourism Management. After graduation, she honed her skills in the hospitality and wedding industries before finding her way back to Chattanooga — and to TVPPA. Now, she manages our event websites, the conferences app, registrations and exhibitor experiences, all with a focus on growing sponsorships and delivering value for attendees.

Energetic and outgoing, Rebekah thrives on connection… whether it’s building relationships with vendors or cheering on Tennessee sports. She loves travel, especially to Key West, and enjoys hiking, concerts, and exploring the world with her adventurous family and her Doodle-mix, Scout.

Rebekah joined TVPPA in 2024 and brings a high-energy, can-do spirit to everything she does. She’s a team player who’s always ready to help, and she’s passionate about making every event a memorable experience.

Favorite Quote: “Whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.” – 1 Corinthians 10:31

Madison Smith

A passion for event planning that began while running sorority events in college was reignited when she began working in events management at Topgolf. That experience led her to TVPPA, where she started part-time and quickly became a full-time Conferences & Events Coordinator. She now works closely with planning committees, speakers, and venues to organize TVPPA’s conferences down to the last detail.

Outside of work, Madison is always on the move — hiking, kayaking, running, and traveling with her husband T.J. and their two dogs, Arthur and Rosco. A certified scuba diver and devoted Green Bay Packers fan, she loves exploring new places, both above and below the water. 

Madison joined TVPPA in 2021 and thrives in her role, combining her love for people, organization and creativity to create memorable event experiences for members.

Favorite Quote: “Success is only meaningful and enjoyable if it feels like your own.” – Michelle Obama

Financial Services

Amanda Humes

Amanda’s journey with TVPPA began in 2016 as a temp with the accounting team, but it wasn’t long before her work ethic and cheerful spirit earned her a full-time role. Today, she handles the month-end processes, billing and credit cards — keeping everything running smoothly behind the scenes.

Outside the office, Amanda loves spending time with her husband, Ben, and their three children. They love being outside and going to Chick-Fil-A!

A homebody, Amanda loves living in Hixson, Tenn. and will tell anyone and everyone that it is the best place to live. Amanda takes pride in being part of the TVPPA team and is always happy to help her coworkers with any accounting questions, financials, or even Excel tips.

Favorite Quote: “The only way to do great work is to love what you do.” – Steve Jobs

Amanda Burke

Amanda’s career in accounting began in the mid-90s and has taken her from healthcare and education to the utility industry, where she found her professional home. Her passion for numbers, budgeting, and financial reporting is matched by her enthusiasm for leading a collaborative team that supports all of TVPPA’s financial operations.

A self-described extroverted accountant, Amanda thrives on building relationships and enjoys a lively life outside of work. She is active in community charity work, loves riding motorcycles, and isn't afraid of a karaoke mic  — especially for a rendition of “Uptown Funk.”

Since joining TVPPA in 2018, Amanda has enjoyed blending her love of accounting with her love for people. Her door is always open to help coworkers navigate financial tasks or simply share a laugh.

Favorite Quote: Hope is the thing with feathers - That perches in the soul - And sings the tune without the words - And never stops at all.”  – Emily Dickinson

Kelly Nixon

With over 20 years of experience as a cosmetologist, Kelly made a unique career pivot into accounting — first working as a bookkeeper at a skilled nursing facility while still styling hair part-time. Her love of learning and knack for numbers eventually led her to TVPPA, where she now handles accounts payable for TVPPA and Distributors Insurance, accounts receivable, and office supply orders … all while keeping her team laughing with her quick wit and positive energy.

Originally from Ringgold, Ga., Kelly loves spending time at the beach with her husband and two sons, Andrew and Ty. When not working, you’ll likely find her taking and editing photos or playing card games.

Since joining TVPPA in early 2023, Kelly has mastered her role, always eager to help and learn. She believes in loyalty, laughter, and living life with integrity — and maybe indulging in a little cheesecake now and then.

Favorite Quote: "Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away."  – Maya Angelou

Human Resources

Bernadette Martin

Bernadette Martin graduated from Middle Tennessee State University with a BBA in Business Management. While in college, she worked part-time at Samsonite Corporation where she discovered her passion for Human Resources. 

With a strong HR background, Bernadette held leadership roles at a large flooring manufacturer before joining TVPPA in April 2018. She is a trusted resource for employees and TVPPA members, helping their organizations find and hire new leaders through executive search services. 

She has a proclivity for travel and has visited destinations across the globe and also enjoys trying new recipes and spending time with her close friends and family. 

Favorite Quote: “Where there is a will, there is a way.”