Meet the Team: Elise Berman

Catching Up with Elise Berman

We're all about building our home state. We work with our partners to grow communities and with businesses to help them move to or expand in our state. How do we do that? By having an awesome team of experts. We caught up with one of those experts to learn more about what she's up to. Let's meet Elise!

What part of town do you live in?

It’s technically Atlanta but I live in the Marietta area in a townhome in the Wildwood office park. It’s by the new Braves Stadium outside of 285. 

What’s your role at Georgia Power? 

Project Manager in Community and Economic Development for Workforce and Education. 

How many years of experience in community/economic development do you have?

I’ve been working for Learning Power within Georgia Power’s Workforce and Education department for 10 years. 

Describe economic development in Georgia in two words:

Fosters Communities

Tell us your favorite part of your job.

I think it’s that I like keeping things organized. It’s a good job for me because I can turn them into workable things. A big component of my job is just trying to keep everything organized and flowing smoothly. I’ve also been within the company for over three decades so I know who to call to get things done.

What was your very first job?

In my very first job, I was an administrative assistant in Meter and Lines within Georgia Power. 

I started at Georgia Power 35 years ago. For my first 6 months at the company, I was an administrative assistant within the Meter and Lines department. I transitioned into Corporate Communication and then eventually to what was then called Economic Development, now that department is Community and Economic Development. 

What do you love about Georgia? 

It’s home because I’ve lived here since I was 11.  This is my home, this is where I feel safe. I love it. It’s where I’m happy. And I’m such an introvert so I need that. 

What’s Your Secret Talent? 

I help people calm down when things are just crazy. I can walk them off the lends. I have a lot of connections. I know the right person to call about everything.

What’s one thing that might surprise people about you?

I have family in Norway. 

Are you a plant or pet parent? 

Before the pandemic, I was really involved in Greyhound rescue. My two adopted greyhounds are named Lucy and Bruiser.

What is one thing you learned about yourself in 2020?

When I first received the call from Joseph [Lillyblad] to pack my things because we would be working from home due to Covid, I was a little scared. I felt a bit uneasy about the change. I didn’t know how I’d adjust to working from home. My schedule and routine are very important to me. I didn’t know if I’d be able to make the adjustment to what is now considered our new normal. 

But I’m doing it. I’m happy and I’m thriving. It kind of serves as a glimpse of what’s to come with my future retirement. I’ve learned that I can adjust to a new work routine and schedule.