As we celebrate Black History Month throughout February, we are excited to shine the spotlight on several of our colleagues who are members of our Black Employee Business Resource Group (BEBRG). To kick off the month, we asked Timell Montgomery, Supplier Diversity Specialist and BEBRG board member, what Black History Month means to her. Read more about Timell and her experience at SDG&E in the Q&A below.
Can you share what your role is at SDG&E and what your typical day looks like?
In my role as Specialist on the Supplier Diversity Team within Supply Management, I actively engage with a diverse range of suppliers, establishing connections with SDG&E’s business stakeholders. Alongside offering project support to our team’s project managers, we collaborate with business units to enhance the presence of diverse suppliers in our supply chain. Moreover, I have the privilege of attending various conferences and site visits, allowing me to connect with diverse companies across the nation and in our service area.
As a member of our Black Employees Business Resource Group, from your perspective, what are some of the biggest benefits to being part of an Employee Resource Group (ERG)?
Being a part of an ERG, especially the BEBRG, has provided me a sense of community and belonging within the company. It’s a safe space full of individuals that I can relate to and lean on. It also helps to immerse you into the many different events and prospects SDG&E has to offer. Within my first year of joining the company, I joined the BEBRG and it has helped me develop many different professional and personal work relationships as well as provided me opportunities to advance my career. Being an ERG member has also enabled me to be more involved in the San Diego community whether that be through volunteer opportunities or networking events.
What does Black History Month mean to you?
Growing up in school we were always taught about three important African American historical figures, Malcolm X, Rosa Parks, and Dr. Martin Luther King
Jr. While they are integral figures in history, and we deeply appreciate their sacrifices. I feel it is essential to recognize the numerous influential individuals from the past and present whose impact on society is often overlooked. Black History Month serves as a dedicated time to highlight the diverse contributions of black men and women across various cultural aspects.
This month provides a beneficial opportunity for feeling valued and important, addressing the occasional lack of celebration of Black history and culture throughout the year. I see Black History Month as a chance to celebrate and educate, acknowledging those who continue to make positive impacts on society and enlightening others about the profound influence Black individuals have had on history and culture as a whole.
This year, the theme of Black History Month is “African Americans and the Arts” – is there a particular Black artist (or author, singer, actor) that you admire?
I admire Pharrell Williams for his multifaceted contributions to music and fashion. Known as a renowned music producer, songwriter, and solo artist, he has worked with industry giants like Mary J. Blige, Snoop Dogg, Britney Spears, and Justin Timberlake. Pharrell’s unique blend of hip-hop, soul, rock, and R&B has left a lasting impact, earning him nine Grammys. Beyond music, as the creative director for Louis Vuitton, he has redefined fashion by incorporating diversity, inclusivity, and pop culture, showcased in his recent Men’s Fall-Winter 2024 collection with a Wild-West theme and diverse representation. Pharrell’s legacy is sure to persist across generations and continually serve as a source of inspiration.
What are your passions outside of work?
I am pleasantly involved in various passions. I work as a teacher with the Concerned Parent Alliance: College Bound, supporting college readiness for minority students in the Poway Unified School District. I volunteer as a coach for the Poway Girls Softball League Youth 10U Softball Team. Additionally, I stay active by engaging in both semi-recreational softball and volleyball, going to the gym, taking leisurely walks with my dog along the beach, and cherish spending time with my family and friends.
