Who are you?
I am Brittany Shadix, the Communications Specialist for Carroll Electric Membership Cooperative. I am also commonly referred to by my nicknames, Brattney and B-Shad.
How long have you worked with cooperatives?
Nearly 8 years! I started working at Carroll EMC as a senior in high school.
Describe your role.
I do it all, like most other communicators at a cooperative. However, my specialties are writing, graphic design and photography. Those three things keep me quite busy whether I am working on a newsletter, advertisement or social media post. I also assist with corporate communications and event planning. I recently took over our agriculture events, including FFA Day and bi-annual seminars, which I have really come to enjoy.
What do you enjoy about working with cooperatives?
Being a part of something so integral to the backbone of society is very rewarding. Beyond that, we are much more than a power provider—we are a community builder. Carroll EMC has what we call the Together We Serve program where we get up to eight hours of paid community service. We get to visit schools and various other organizations to teach them about electrical safety or simply offer help where it is needed.
When did you join CCA? Why?
I joined CCA in 2019 when I was hired full-time in the Communications Department. My current supervisor, Kelly Jimenez, has been a member for years, and she wanted me to reap the benefits of the organization including professional development and networking.
Did anything surprise you about CCA upon joining?
I did not know there were so many kinds of cooperatives! Everyone was also so friendly.
How has CCA supported you in your career?
The Communications Contest has on many occasions boosted my spirit and confidence in my own work. To be recognized for something you spent many hours on is exciting. The MCC designation is also something I am proud of and helps me to show others that I am proficient at my work.
What are your hobbies and interests?
Catch me outdoors and in the sunshine, I am one happy girl! Whether hiking, kayaking, or chilling in my Eno, you can find me outside when I’m not in the office. I have a newfound joy in antique shopping! I also love hanging out with friends at a local brewery/winery or even a concert. Carrollton, GA has the best free concerts at its downtown amphitheater in the summer.
Do you have a “bucket list”? What are some of the things on that list?
My bucket list consists of mostly traveling. I want to venture out to Italy one day, but I also want to explore the US too.
Give us something about yourself that is surprising or that most people don’t know.
I probably have the biggest social battery of anyone. I can talk all day long. I recently got a butterfly tattoo which tracks. But it’s nearly invisible because it’s white—I cannot commit to a visible tattoo my whole life!
What advice would you give to professional communicators just starting their careers?
Give yourself room to make mistakes and learn from them. Don’t expect to know everything all at once. Enjoy the slow pace and have fun!
Email Brittany here
