AEP Texas Appoints Adrian Rodriguez as New Leader to Drive Growth and Engagement

AEP Texas Welcomes New Leadership Amid Growth Aspirations

American Electric Power (AEP) announces the appointment of Adrian Rodriguez as the new president and chief operating officer of AEP Texas, effective March 30, 2026. This leadership change is part of AEP's strategic initiative to enhance operational performance and strengthen relationships with stakeholders in Texas—a region identified as essential for growth. AEP's chairman and CEO, Bill Fehrman, underlines Rodriguez's vast experience in regulatory issues and stakeholder engagement as pivotal for aligning with the company’s long-term goals in this competitive market.

Rodriguez enters the role with a robust background in the energy sector, having previously led significant regulatory projects at Southwestern Public Service Company and effectively managed recovery efforts following wildfires. His journey includes key leadership positions such as senior vice president of Regulatory & Strategy at Puget Sound Energy and various strategic roles at El Paso Electric Company. His extensive experience positions him well to navigate the complexities of the Texas energy landscape, making him an asset as AEP seeks to leverage its advanced transmission capabilities, notably the 765-kV system, to drive growth.

As he takes the helm, Rodriguez emphasizes his commitment to enhancing community value and building trust among employees, customers, regulators, and local leaders. His focus on safety and reliability, combined with a proactive approach to stakeholder relations, is expected to elevate AEP Texas’s operational performance and foster sustainable growth. AEP’s success in Texas is particularly critical as the state continues to evolve as a lucrative energy market, offering numerous opportunities for innovation and development in the utility sector.

In conjunction with Rodriguez's appointment, Bill Fehrman acknowledges Judith Talavera's significant contributions to the company, wishing her well in her future endeavors. Alex Ramirez is set to assist in the transition as interim president, ensuring a seamless handover of responsibilities. AEP is poised to make impactful strides in Texas under Rodriguez's leadership, reinforcing its commitment to a resilient and advanced energy system amidst a rapidly changing industry landscape.

Rodriguez joins AEP Texas at an opportune time, as the company seeks to capitalize on the burgeoning energy demands within the state. The strategic focus on enhancing stakeholder engagement and regulatory compliance aligns with the increasing complexity of energy markets and the necessity for companies to remain agile. AEP’s initiatives signal a dedication to not only fostering significant growth but also ensuring it does so responsibly and sustainably in the dynamic Texas environment.