James Leigh-Kendall

James Leigh-Kendall has a strong background in the electric utility industry, with over three decades of experience. James has held various roles at SMUD, starting as a Senior Transmission Planning Engineer in 1989 and progressing to Director of Reliability Compliance in 2015. In their role as Director, they ensure compliance with FERC/NERC/WECC Reliability Standards. Prior to SMUD, James worked at the Western Area Power Administration as a Senior Electrical Engineer, where they supported the development of the California-Oregon Intertie Project integration into the WAPA grid. Overall, James has extensive experience in transmission planning, power system assessments, and reliability compliance.

James Leigh-Kendall attended United States Air Force Academy from 1980 to 1982, although no degree or field of study information was provided. James then pursued a BSEE degree in Power Engineering from California State University-Sacramento from 1982 to 1985.