At Entergy, our employees are the foundation of our success – and their diverse journeys reflect the strength of our culture. One shining example is Nishiki Barnes, Distribution Designer II, whose career path illustrates the power of perseverance, professional growth and commitment to community.
A New Orleans native and mother of five, Barnes has been with Entergy for more than six years. She began her career as a contractor in the streetlight department before moving into the damage prevention group, where she located underground utilities for four years. Today, she is part of the engineering team as a distribution designer.
“What I like most about my current position is being part of the full process from design to execution – from a simple idea or work request to a completed project out in the field,” said Barnes.
Her role requires a strong mix of technical knowledge, communication and problem-solving skills. Reviewing and preparing prints, working with mapping systems and coordinating across departments are all part of her daily responsibilities. Barnes credits her earlier field experience with giving her the perspective she needs to succeed in her current position.
Breaking barriers in the industry
Barnes’ career is also a story of resilience. As the only woman in her line worker apprenticeship cohort, and often the only woman on a job site, she quickly learned the importance of determination and focus.
“Being a woman, and more specifically, a Black woman, in a male-dominated industry hasn’t been easy,” she said. “Sometimes that meant being the only woman on the job site, and knowing I had eyes on me waiting to see if I could handle the work. But instead of letting that discourage me, I let it push me… Over time, that earned respect.”
Barnes says the support she has received from coworkers, mentors, and leaders at Entergy has also been instrumental in her growth. “I’ve learned that confidence doesn’t come from trying to fit in, it comes from knowing your worth, showing up every day, and being willing to keep growing.”
Investing in the next generation
In addition to her role at Entergy, Barnes is committed to inspiring others to pursue careers in skilled trades. She regularly volunteers in the community, mentors interns and participates in Women in Trade, a group that promotes opportunities in technical fields.
“For me, it’s not about doing the job. It’s about helping those that are unaware of this route or curious about the field,” she said. “I want them to know this career is possible for them too.”
Looking ahead
Barnes continues to expand her technical expertise and has her sights set on future leadership opportunities. “My ultimate
career plan is to one day move into a safety role within the company,” she said.
When asked what advice she would offer to young women considering a career with Entergy, she emphasized the importance of persistence. “The journey will not be easy, but absolutely worth it, so go for it! Don’t be afraid to ask questions, speak up, be curious and be bold.”
Living Entergy’s values
For Barnes, working at Entergy is about more than professional growth. It’s about family, community and building a lasting legacy. “I’m motivated to establish a solid foundation for my family and leave behind an exceptional legacy for my children,” she said.
Her story is a testament to Entergy’s culture of safety, inclusion, and continuous growth, and a reminder that behind every power line and project are employees like Nishiki Barnes who bring energy to life every day.
