In honor of Black History Month, we’re proud to shine a spotlight on our Employee Resource Group, The American Association of Blacks in Energy – South Jersey Chapter (AABE-SJC) and highlight the individuals behind the impactful work being done within this ERG.
At SJI, our Employee Resource Groups play a critical role in fostering a culture of inclusion and belonging for all. Our ERGs are vital, volunteer-led employee groups that significantly enhance employee engagement and promote an inclusive, collaborative workplace. These groups are open to all employees.
“AABE creates a strong sense of community by bringing members together around a shared mission of education, leadership, and service. Through mentorship, professional development, and scholarship initiatives, AABE fosters an environment of support, empowerment, and collective growth - making members feel connected and valued beyond the workplace.” – Lisa Cottman, AABE-SJC President
Living Our Values Through Action
At SJI, giving back is an important part of our culture. AABE champions this by supporting and empowering local communities through mentorship opportunities, educational awareness, networking events, and awarding over $350,000 scholarships annually, supporting students pursuing careers in STEM and energy.
Additionally, AABE is actively engaged in several events throughout the year. Last month, AABE continued its longstanding tradition of participating in Stockton University’s Annual MLK Day of Service, an event that brings together employees, students and community members in recognition of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s unwavering commitment to service.
On January 19, employees from SJI, South Jersey Gas, and Elizabethtown Gas participated in over 15 volunteer activities with Stockton University and Jersey Cares, from making cards and crafts for older adults and schoolchildren to distributing food and critical supplies to local organizations across the region.
These events demonstrate how small acts of service can make a meaningful impact on the communities we serve.
“AABE brings together employees from different departments, backgrounds, and levels of the organization through its programming, events, and volunteer opportunities. These interactions create natural opportunities to build relationships outside of our day-to-day roles. Serving as treasurer for the past three and a half years has allowed me to collaborate with leadership, team members, and partners across the company, strengthening both professional relationships and organizational understanding.” – Nikki Charles, AABE-SJC Treasurer
Throughout February, AABE held several events to honor Black History Month, including:
- Co-hosting a networking event in partnership with AtlantiCare and the Caesars Employee Resource Group to bring together professionals, leaders, and community members on Feb. 6.
- Participating in the Caesars Employee Resource Group’s Black History Month Film Festival on Feb. 9 and 17, which featured powerful films intended to spark reflection, inspire dialogue, and deepen appreciation for the experiences and contributions that enrich communities.
- Hosting a Lunch and Learn event at SJI’s Folsom headquarters on Feb. 25, honoring Black history through mentorship, inclusion, and impact in the workplace, highlighting the important role of Employee Resource Groups and Business Resource Groups.
Service Beyond a Single Day
Service is more than a moment—it’s a reflection of who we are.
We recognize and celebrate our AABE ERG leaders and members for their continued commitment to promoting greater awareness of the importance of inclusion at our company and leading programs that create a sense of belonging for our workforce.
Black History Month is a powerful moment to reflect, honor, and celebrate – and at SJI, our commitment to volunteerism and giving back is demonstrated year-round through our core values of service, community, and inclusion.
To learn more about our Employee Resource Groups, like AABE, please visit https://jobs.sjindustries.com/diversity-inclusion
