JOSHUA DANQUAH

Develop and implement strategic plans for the expansion, modernization, and optimization of the electrical grid infrastructure.

• Align engineering and grid planning activities with the corporation's overall strategic objectives and growth plans.
• Provide leadership and direction to the Engineering and Grid Planning Department, fostering a culture of excellence, innovation, and continuous improvement.
• Oversee the planning, design, and execution of engineering projects, including transmission lines, substations, distribution networks, and renewable energy integration.
• Ensure projects are completed on time, within budget, and meet quality and safety standards.
• Implement project management best practices, methodologies, and tools to enhance efficiency and effectiveness.
• Ensure all engineering designs, plans, and operations comply with national and international standards (e.g., IEC, IEEE), regulations, and safety codes.
• Oversee the development and maintenance of technical specifications, standards, and procedures.
• Monitor emerging technologies and industry trends to incorporate best practices into engineering and grid planning activities.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a team of engineers, planners, and technical staff.
• Foster a collaborative and high-performance team environment.
• Conduct performance evaluations, set goals, and provide professional development opportunities.
• Collaborate with internal departments, including Metering & Connections, Quality Management, and Research & Innovation, to ensure cohesive operations.
• Engage with external stakeholders, such as government agencies, regulatory bodies, donors, contractors, and community representatives.
• Represent LEC in meetings, conferences, and forums related to engineering and grid planning.
• Develop and manage the departmental budget, ensuring efficient allocation of resources.
• Oversee cost estimation, budgeting, and financial control for engineering projects.
• Seek funding opportunities, grants, and partnerships to support grid expansion and upgrade initiatives.
• Identify and mitigate risks associated with engineering projects and grid operations.
• Ensure compliance with occupational health and safety regulations.
• Promote a safety-first culture within the department and across all engineering activities.
• Ensure all activities comply with the regulations set by the Liberia Electricity Regulatory Commission (LERC) and other relevant authorities.
• Prepare and submit technical reports, project updates, and compliance documentation as required.
• Maintain accurate records and documentation of all engineering and planning activities.
• Promote the adoption of innovative technologies and solutions to enhance grid reliability, efficiency, and sustainability.
• Collaborate with the Research & Innovation Section to pilot new initiatives and incorporate advanced technologies.
• Implement process improvements to optimize operations and reduce technical losses.

• As Principal Engineer of Systems and Network Planning, I am responsible for ensuring the reliable and secure planning and development of the Corporation's transmission and distribution network.
• Reports to the Executive Director and manages the daily operations of the department
• Responsible for ensuring staff onboard and development
• Develop section and departments long-term plans and targets, and complete employees' performance appraisal as required
• Assess the impact of integrating new generation sources, large consumers, and complex load and equipment on LEC's system.
• Develop and review technical reports, recommend solutions to system planning problems, and perform planning activities to support the Corporation's network expansion and grid reinforcements programs
• Oversees System Impact Studies (SIS) to assess the connection of significant projects to the Corporation's transmission system
• Ensures that network studies, including load flow studies, are performed accurately and timely during planning stages for projects or when additional elements are added to the existing network.
• Guarantees that the transmission system model, including the networks expansion plan, is stored, and maintained in the appropriate shared folder
• Develops and maintain all necessary transmission system models, including network expansion plans to develop the network
• Initiates, Plan, Execute and Close specialized departmental projects
• Works closely with internal and external stakeholders providing information to assist in their function and receive critical data to ensure the Department's operations
• Continuously review, monitor, recommend and revise processes and procedures, and ensure that adequate resources are available for continuous improvement.

• In my role as the Acting Manager of Systems Geoinformatics within the electric utility, I led a dedicated team focused on harnessing geospatial data and cutting-edge technology to optimize critical decision-making processes.
• Oversaw all functions of the Geospatial Data Management section, including technical development and project management.
• Determined, prepared, and managed budgetary requirements and provided long-range planning for overall geospatial data management.
• Developed and implemented GIS services, policies, procedures, and strategies, including the GIS Strategic Plan.
• Developed and implemented standards and procedures for GIS database maintenance and administration.
• Developed and maintained internal manuals, training materials, and systems documentation, as well as publicly available map resources.
• Liaised with the Corporation’s Procurement Office for the proper acquisition, installation, operation, and maintenance of GIS-related resources.
• Provided direct technical support and managed development for GIS software packages, technologies, and techniques.
• Evaluated the functionality of systems, kept up to date with new technology, and investigated new applications.
• Trained and mentored new GIS users.
• Performed any other duties assigned by Management.

• As a GIS/IMS Engineer at the Liberia Electricity Corporation, I played a pivotal role in the development and management of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Information Management Systems (IMS).
• Acted as the System Administrator responsible for overseeing the Enterprise Asset Management System's functionality and performance.
• Coordinated and managed all aspects of the corporation's Network Geospatial Data, ensuring accuracy and accessibility.
• Provided essential technical support for a range of Ingrid systems, including EAM (Enterprise Asset Management), ECL (Enterprise Customer Lifecycle), and DMS (Distribution Management System).
• Operated and leveraged the Utility Planning tool (CYMDIST) to conduct critical power studies and assessments.
• Monitored and facilitated the seamless progression of customer requests, fostering efficient collaboration between the Commercial and Planning departments.
• Orchestrated and oversaw field data campaigns for various projects, ensuring the collection of accurate and up-to-date geospatial data.
• Functioned as a Trainer of Trainers (ToT) for all Ingrid systems, equipping team members with the necessary skills and knowledge to utilize these systems effectively.
• Collaborated on other vital tasks and assignments as required to support the Liberia Electricity Corporation's operational excellence and data management objectives.

• As the Assistant Planning Coordinator for the 'Asset Customer Mapping Study' project, I played a pivotal role in the successful execution of this vital initiative, which was sponsored by MCA-L under MCC (Millennium Challenge Corporation). The project, with a substantial budget of 2.7 million USD and a dedicated staff of over 150, aimed to comprehensively map and analyze assets and customers within Liberia's electricity network.
• Provided crucial support to the Planning Coordinator in project management and execution.
• Ensured the development and design of network diagrams optimized for efficient navigation by field teams.
• Formulated comprehensive movement plans to facilitate the coordination of over 90 field staff members.
• Orchestrated the sequencing of tasks to align with project objectives and timelines.
• Collaborated closely with the Back Office team to create assignments, ensuring the smooth flow of quality data between the field and office.
• Delivered valuable GIS training and technical expertise to project participants, enhancing their proficiency and capabilities.
• Conducted data manipulation tasks, including the transformation of data from geodatabase format to .shp and various other formats, contributing to data accessibility and analysis efforts.
• Liaised with project teams, ensuring the efficient allocation of resources, and facilitating communication between stakeholders.

• As the Acting Assistant Director of Planning, Projects, and Development at the Liberia Electricity Corporation, I assumed a leadership role in driving the strategic planning and development initiatives within the organization.
• Led strategic planning and development initiatives, overseeing the execution and management of critical projects to enhance Liberia's electricity infrastructure.
• Aligned projects with the corporation's long-term vision, optimizing resource allocation, and fostering collaboration among cross-functional teams.
• Planned, monitored, and managed the progress of various projects, ensuring their timely completion and adherence to established goals.
• Assisted in the successful execution of smart system projects, leveraging advanced technologies to improve efficiency and service delivery within the electrical infrastructure.
• Collaborated with internal and external stakeholders to facilitate project success and alignment with industry best practices.

• During my tenure as an Electronics Engineer at the Liberia Electricity Corporation from September 2017, I played a vital role in maintaining, designing, and optimizing electronic systems essential for the reliable and efficient operation of the organization. My dedication to my work was evident when I was honored with the Most Creative Staff award in the Planning Department at the end-of-year program in 2018.
• Compiled data and authored comprehensive reports pertaining to ongoing and prospective engineering studies and projects, facilitating informed decision-making.
• Acted as a System Supervisor, overseeing the efficient operation and maintenance of critical electronic systems.
• Proficiently utilized computer-assisted engineering and design software and equipment to execute complex engineering tasks, ensuring the smooth functioning of essential equipment.
• Took charge of planning and supervision for data acquisition campaigns, utilizing GIS software for network mapping, and coordinating field teams to gather accurate geospatial data.
• Collaborated with cross-functional teams to identify opportunities for process improvements and innovative solutions, contributing to the advancement of electrical infrastructure.

• As an Electronics Intern at the Liberia Electricity Corporation, I had the valuable opportunity to gain hands-on experience and insights into the fascinating world of electrical engineering. During my internship, I actively participated in various aspects of power-systems projects and operations. My responsibilities included assisting the engineering team with troubleshooting and maintenance tasks, as well as contributing to the design and implementation of grid development.
• Compiled and meticulously managed data related to substations, producing monthly reports to ensure data accuracy and accessibility.
• Generated and submitted monthly project reports, offering comprehensive insights into project progress and performance.
• Proficiently operated ArcGIS and various CAD (Computer-Aided Design) software, utilizing these tools for data analysis, mapping, and project design.
• Demonstrated technical prowess by troubleshooting and resolving computer-related issues, ensuring a smooth and uninterrupted workflow.
• Assisted in the evaluation and implementation of data management strategies to enhance overall efficiency and data quality.
• Collaborated with cross-functional teams to identify opportunities for process improvements and innovative solutions.