Kaia S. Simmons, PhD

Kaia S. Simmons, PhD Manager of Public Affairs responsible for stakeholder engagement in Louisiana.

🌀Hurricane preparedness begins long before a storm enters the Gulf.With hurricane season fast approaching, Atmos Energy ...
05/29/2026

🌀Hurricane preparedness begins long before a storm enters the Gulf.

With hurricane season fast approaching, Atmos Energy remains focused on preparation, coordination, and ensuring we are ready to safely serve our customers and communities when severe weather strikes. Today, we joined parish, state, and federal leaders at the St. Tammany Parish Hurricane Preparedness Meeting held at Church of the King in Mandeville, Louisiana.

The meeting featured remarks and updates from key emergency management leaders, including St. Tammany Parish President Michael B. Cooper; Clint Ory, Director of the Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness (OHSEP); Jason P. Mahfouz, Director of the Louisiana Governor's Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness (GOHSEP) and Assistant Adjutant General of the Louisiana National Guard; as well as the National Weather Service, which provided an outlook for the 2026 hurricane season. Attendees also received a comprehensive overview of parish preparedness efforts and emergency response planning.

Representing Atmos Energy were Bruce Javery, Operations Supervisor for the Northlake area, and myself. Participation in meetings like these is critical to strengthening relationships with emergency management partners, maintaining situational awareness, and ensuring coordination before, during, and after severe weather events.

In Louisiana, where hurricanes, tropical storms, flooding, and other extreme weather conditions are a reality, preparation is essential. These discussions help us align our emergency response plans with local and state agencies, identify potential challenges, and enhance our ability to respond safely and efficiently when communities need us most.

As one of the nation's largest natural gas-only distributors, Atmos Energy is committed to being prepared before storms arrive. By working alongside emergency management officials and community partners, we help ensure the continued safe and reliable delivery of natural gas while supporting the resilience and recovery of the communities we serve.

Ensuring natural gas has a voice in the conversation about the future of energy is more important than ever.Atmos Energy...
05/28/2026

Ensuring natural gas has a voice in the conversation about the future of energy is more important than ever.

Atmos Energy was honored to host the Louisiana Chapter of the American Association of Blacks in Energy (AABE) at our Louisiana Division Headquarters in Baton Rouge for its annual meeting. The gathering provided an opportunity to reflect on our recent participation in AABE's 49th National Conference in New Orleans, themed "The Energy Renaissance: Driving Change, Empowering Communities, and Leading Sustainability."

As the energy landscape continues to evolve, organizations like AABE play a critical role in bringing together industry leaders, innovators, policymakers, and professionals to discuss the future of energy. It is essential that natural gas providers are actively engaged in these conversations, sharing the value natural gas brings to energy reliability, affordability, resilience, and sustainability while helping shape the future of our nation's energy mix.

We were especially proud to celebrate Louisiana Division President Oric Walker, who served as the keynote speaker for the Voices of Impact AABE Honors Celebration Dinner. His remarks highlighted the power of leadership, service, and creating pathways for the next generation of energy professionals.

This year's conference also marked a significant milestone for Atmos Energy, with multiple employees participating as attendees and volunteers, many for the first time. Our strong presence demonstrated a commitment not only to supporting AABE's mission, but also to ensuring the natural gas industry is represented in discussions that influence the future of energy and the communities we serve.

Hosting AABE's annual meeting at our Louisiana headquarters further strengthens this valued partnership and reinforces our commitment to active membership, committee involvement, leadership development, and stakeholder engagement. We look forward to growing our involvement, deepening relationships, and continuing to contribute to meaningful conversations that help drive the energy industry forward.

🤝 Strengthening relationships and building collaborative partnerships is essential to supporting the communities we serv...
05/19/2026

🤝 Strengthening relationships and building collaborative partnerships is essential to supporting the communities we serve. Recently, members of the Atmos Energy Public Affairs and Business Development teams had the opportunity to meet with Tangipahoa Economic Development to learn more about the parish’s growth initiatives, infrastructure priorities, and long-term vision for economic development. VP Public Affairs, Linda Waters, MPA Kaia Simmons, and Business Development Representatives Shelby Schroeder and Kathleen Dufour, each gave great context respective to their expertise providing a multidisciplinary point of view.

As a result our visit, we were introduced to several key departments and leaders, including workforce development, engineering, permitting, right-of-way specialists, and community stakeholders, while also receiving an invitation to engage with the Tangipahoa Chamber of Commerce. We were also able to provide insight into Atmos Energy's presence in the community both underground and through our outreach. Meetings like these create valuable opportunities for open dialogue surrounding upcoming projects, community needs, infrastructure planning, and regional growth efforts from both perspectives.

For Atmos Energy, cultivating strong relationships with organizations like Tangipahoa Economic Development is about far more than business growth. It is about maintaining a fluid line of communication, strengthening stakeholder engagement, supporting responsible development, and ensuring we remain a collaborative partner as communities continue to expand and thrive. By working together early and often, we can better anticipate future energy needs, support economic progress, and continue fueling safe and thriving communities across Louisiana.

The future of our communities is shaped by the opportunities we create for the next generation today. We recently had th...
05/16/2026

The future of our communities is shaped by the opportunities we create for the next generation today. We recently had the honor of welcoming 20 juniors and seniors from Helix Maritime and Mentorship Academy to our Louisiana Division headquarters for a meaningful day of mentorship, exposure, and connection.

The students and their staff toured our office before gathering in our large conference room, where Atmos Energy employees shared personal stories of resilience, leadership, perseverance, and career growth. Through honest conversations and lived experiences, students were able to see firsthand that success is not always a straight path — it is often built through determination, adaptability, and the willingness to keep pushing forward despite obstacles. What made this moment especially meaningful was the opportunity to create representation, visibility, and access.

Beginning with sharing our own AtmosSpirit values, we were intentional about providing an opportunity for employees of various backgrounds, life experiences, career paths, and tenure to share a moment of guidance with the young ladies. As each employee shared their personal and professional journey, it created a meaningful moment of connection - not only for the students, but for our team members to learn more about one another beyond our daily interactions. For many students, experiences like these help bridge the gap between the classroom and the corporate world, allowing them to envision themselves in careers and industries they may not have previously considered. From learning about the natural gas industry and corporate operations to hearing about personal journeys into leadership and service, the day was filled with inspiration, encouragement, and authentic engagement.

We were proud to have the following employees engage with and speak to the students: Oric Walker, LA Division President; Linda Waters, VP Public Affairs; Kaia Simmons, Manager of Public Affairs; Taylor Lewis, Financial Analyst; Daniel Waguespack, Business Development Manager; Hope Borne, Executive Assistant; Sabrina Daniels, Human Resources Generalist; Carlace Brooks, Revenue Management Coordinator

Investing time in mentorship and workforce exposure is one of the many ways corporations like Atmos Energy can give back to the communities we serve. By pouring into young people, sharing knowledge, and helping build confidence and career awareness, we are contributing to stronger futures and continuing our commitment to fueling safe and thriving communities.

Inspiring the next generation starts with showing up.Atmos Energy recently had the opportunity to participate in Career ...
05/15/2026

Inspiring the next generation starts with showing up.

Atmos Energy recently had the opportunity to participate in Career Day at St. Tammany Junior High, where we connected with eighth grade students to share more about our company, the natural gas industry, and the many career pathways available within the energy sector. Over the course of 12 rotating classes in 20-minute sessions, students engaged in thoughtful conversations about the resilience, efficiency, and safety of natural gas, as well as the important role safety plays in everything we do.

What stood out most was the level of curiosity and engagement from the students. From questions about infrastructure and emergency response to careers in public affairs, engineering, operations, and safety, these future leaders brought insightful questions and a genuine interest in learning more about the energy industry.

Opportunities like this reflect our commitment to Fueling Safe and Thriving Communities by investing in education, career awareness, and meaningful connections with students who will help shape the future of our communities and workforce. 💙

Big thanks to the Atmos Energy employees who spent the day investing in these students: Kaia Simmons, Manager of Public Affairs; Sabrina Daniels, HR Generalist; Tony Dumas, Distribution Operator; Damon Petrie, Sr. Service Technician; Joey Faciane, Sr. Service Technician

Celebrating the   who shape our future! 🍎📚 As part of our Fueling Safe and Thriving Communities outreach vision, Atmos E...
05/15/2026

Celebrating the who shape our future! 🍎📚

As part of our Fueling Safe and Thriving Communities outreach vision, Atmos Energy proudly continued our annual Teacher Appreciation initiative by recognizing the incredible educators and school leaders who pour into students across Louisiana each and every day. From breakfasts and lunches to Atmos-branded raffle prizes and special surprises, this tradition is one small way we say "thank you" to those making a lasting impact in our communities.

This year, we were honored to celebrate the following schools across the Northshore and beyond:

Merrydale Elementary, EBRP
Wedgewood Elementary, EBRP
St. Joseph Catholic, Tangipahoa
Galvez Middle, Ascension Parish
Galvez Primary, Ascension Parish
William Pitcher Jr. High, St. Tammany
Bayou Lacombe Middle, St. Tammany

At our 2025-2026 adopted school, Merrydale Elementary in East Baton Rouge Parish, we were especially excited to help close out the school year with a special donation that included raffle prizes and spirit t-shirts for every teacher and staff member as a token of appreciation for their dedication, heart, and service to students and families.

Teachers are everyday heroes who help build stronger, safer, and more thriving communities, and we are grateful for the opportunity to support and celebrate them year after year. 💙

Creating safer communities goes far beyond emergency response — it starts with education, prevention, and giving familie...
05/12/2026

Creating safer communities goes far beyond emergency response — it starts with education, prevention, and giving families the tools they need to recognize risks before accidents happen. That’s why it was so meaningful for Atmos Energy to attend the open house and ribbon cutting for The Safety Place facility at BREC Cedar Ridge to present a check announcing our partnership and show support.

Atmos Energy joined community leaders and safety advocates in celebrating this innovative space dedicated to hands-on safety education for children and families across our region. The new brick-and-mortar facility will expand opportunities for interactive learning around topics such as fire prevention, pedestrian and bicycle safety, water safety, internet safety, and now, the importance of natural gas safety education.

The Safety Place serves as a community-centered educational resource designed to teach children real-world safety skills through immersive, age-appropriate experiences. By creating engaging environments where students can learn how to respond to emergencies and recognize potential hazards, the organization is helping build a stronger culture of prevention and preparedness throughout Louisiana.

For communities across Deep South Louisiana, adding natural gas safety education into these programs is especially important. With our region’s extensive pipeline infrastructure, growing residential development, hurricane exposure, flooding risks, and ongoing construction activity, public awareness around natural gas safety is critical. Teaching families and young people how to recognize the smell of natural gas, understand the importance of calling 811 before digging, and know what to do in the event of a leak can help prevent emergencies and save lives.

As a natural gas provider deeply rooted in the communities we serve, Atmos Energy⁠ understands that safety education is one of the most powerful investments we can make. Partnerships with organizations like The Safety Place⁠ help ensure that the next generation grows up informed, prepared, and empowered to make safe decisions for themselves, their families, and their neighborhoods.

The 2026 Acadiana Go Red for Women Luncheon brought our Atmos Energy team together in Lafayette for an impactful day cen...
05/12/2026

The 2026 Acadiana Go Red for Women Luncheon brought our Atmos Energy team together in Lafayette for an impactful day centered on awareness, advocacy, and the importance of women’s heart health. ❤️

Under the leadership of our very own Manager of Public Affairs, Jena Roussel, who served as this year’s chair, we gathered alongside community leaders, survivors, families, and advocates to share powerful stories of resilience and strength. Hearing firsthand accounts from our own employees and families affected by heart disease served as a meaningful reminder that this issue touches so many lives both personally and professionally.

We are incredibly grateful to Jena Roussel for her leadership and dedication to this important cause, and to the Veazey family for courageously sharing their story and helping inspire greater awareness, education, and support for women’s heart health across our communities. Events like the American Heart Association’s Acadiana Go Red for Women Luncheon reinforce the importance of showing up for one another, supporting lifesaving conversations, and continuing to build healthier, stronger communities together.

As National Safe Digging Month comes to a close, we were proud to support the Kids Zone at the Earth Day event hosted by...
05/01/2026

As National Safe Digging Month comes to a close, we were proud to support the Kids Zone at the Earth Day event hosted by The Walls Project—an organization doing transformative work right here in our communities.

The Walls Project is more than public art. It’s a community reactivation organization that uses creativity, education, and collaboration to break down barriers and create pathways to economic opportunity, healthy living, and lifelong learning—especially in underserved communities.

From revitalizing neighborhoods through murals to expanding access to fresh food, workforce training, and youth programming, their impact reaches far beyond what you see on the surface.
That’s why this partnership matters.
By sponsoring the Kids Zone, we’re investing in safe, engaging spaces where children and families can learn, play, and grow—while reinforcing the importance of safety, environmental stewardship, and community well-being.

At Atmos Energy, our commitment to fueling safe and thriving communities aligns naturally with organizations like The Walls Project—because when we create opportunities for our youth, we help build stronger, healthier communities for generations to come.

Today’s Town Hall and Roundtable Luncheon in New Orleans created space for meaningful dialogue on business growth, econo...
04/24/2026

Today’s Town Hall and Roundtable Luncheon in New Orleans created space for meaningful dialogue on business growth, economic opportunity, and inclusive leadership across Louisiana. Joining fellow Manager of Public Affairs Leah Oby, we were honored to engage with leaders through the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Louisiana at the Hyatt Regency New Orleans.

The Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Louisiana has a strong presence in Lafayette and throughout Acadiana, where it helps connect entrepreneurs and established businesses to procurement opportunities, small business resources, access to capital, networking, and certification support. The Chamber has also partnered with the U.S. Small Business Administration to host workshops in both Lafayette and New Orleans that assist businesses with SAM registration and federal contracting readiness. That work is especially important in Lafayette, where small business innovation, energy, healthcare, education, and regional commerce play a major role in the local economy. Supporting organizations that help diverse businesses grow strengthens communities and creates broader economic impact.

For Atmos Energy, participating in spaces like this reflects our commitment to stakeholder engagement, inclusive economic development, and building strong partnerships in the communities we serve across Louisiana.



Address

450 Laurel Street Suite 2000
Baton Rouge, LA
70801

Opening Hours

Monday 8am - 5pm
Tuesday 8am - 5pm
Wednesday 8am - 5pm
Thursday 8am - 5pm
Friday 8am - 5pm
Saturday 8am - 5pm
Sunday 8am - 5pm

Telephone

+15044514077

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