SWEPCO Appoints Sara Vestfals As New Plant Manager

Southwestern Electric Power Company (SWEPCO) is pleased to announce the appointment of Sara Vestfals as the new Plant Manager for Arsenal Hill and J. Lamar Stall in Shreveport, La., and Lieberman in Mooringsport, La.

Vestfals will report to Monte McMahon, Vice President, Generating Assets, and will be responsible for overseeing the managerial, financial, environmental, and safety performance of these facilities. Vestfals' appointment is effective as of May 27, 2024.

Sara’s experience at SWEPCO

Monte McMahon stated, "Sara has excelled in every role during her career at AEP. She has a unique ability to engage employees at all levels of the organization."

"Her focus on employee development is admirable, and I know that the employees at Arsenal Hill, Stall, and Lieberman will benefit from her knowledge and leadership. I look forward to having Sara’s experience at these critical SWEPCO assets," adds McMahon.

Prior roles of Sara Vestfals

Vestfals was the Plant Manager for both Flint Creek and Mattison Power Plants in Northwest Arkansas

Sara Vestfals joined AEP in 2005 as a Plant Systems Owner at John W. Turk, Jr. Power Plant near Carson, Texas and has since held various leadership positions. 

Most recently, Vestfals was the Plant Manager for both Flint Creek and Mattison Power Plants in Northwest Arkansas. Before that, she held leadership positions and previously at Wilkes and Lone Star Power Plants, both in East Texas.

Sara's leadership and dedication

Brett Mattison, President and Chief Operating Officer of SWEPCO, commented, "Sara's leadership and dedication to excellence have consistently driven improvements across our operations."

He adds, "Her new role as plant manager for these essential plants is a testament to her capabilities and the trust we place in her. We are confident that under her guidance, these facilities will continue to operate at the highest standards."

Educational background of Vestfals

Sara Vestfals is a graduate of LeTourneau University, holding a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, and she earned a master’s degree in engineering management from Arkansas State University. She is also a registered professional engineer in the state of Texas.

SWEPCO is committed to maintaining a diverse generation portfolio that includes natural gas, coal, and wind. This balanced energy mix not only enhances grid reliability but also supports the company’s dedication to sustainable and environmentally responsible energy generation.