Washington Gas is honored to celebrate Black History Month and each week during February 2026 we will profile one of our employees and what Black History means to them.
Tamara Neal
Director and Senior Station Leader
Since starting at Washington Gas in 2012, I have had the privilege of building a career that has challenged me, shaped me, and allowed me to grow into the leader I am today. I am proud to work for a company that truly believes in developing its people and creating pathways for growth. Just as important, I am grateful to serve a company committed to meeting the needs of a diverse community that reflects the region we are so proud to support.
I began my journey at Washington Gas on the below-ground crew truck as a helper mechanic. In that role, I was one of the first Black women to step into that position, an experience that taught me resilience, confidence, and the importance of representation. Those early years in the field grounded me in the company’s mission and gave me a deep respect for the men and women who work every day to keep our system safe.
After two years in the field, I transitioned to the Dispatch team. This role strengthened my operational knowledge and tested my ability to stay calm and focused under pressure. I was often the first point of contact for customers facing urgent or stressful situations, and that responsibility taught me the value of empathy, professionalism, and clear communication.
From there, my journey continued through several leadership roles. I became the Supervisor of our Damage Prevention program, then returned to Dispatch as a Manager before ultimately becoming the Director of Dispatch.
Today, I proudly serve as the Director and Senior Station Leader for the Southeast Station in Forestville, Maryland. I oversee the teams responsible for delivering affordable, reliable, and safe natural gas to customers in Prince George’s County, Charles County, and St. Mary’s County. My focus has always been, and will always be, on safety, operational excellence, and supporting the people who make our work possible. One of the most rewarding parts of my job is working closely with the crews to help ensure they go home safely every day. Our station has truly turned a corner when it comes to safety, and I am incredibly proud of the progress we have made together.
Looking back, I am deeply grateful that Washington Gas has provided me opportunities to advance, lead, and serve the community by helping deliver essential energy every single day.
Black History Month holds a special meaning for me. It is a time when I intentionally celebrate our history with my grandkids and teach them about the strength, courage, and brilliance of those who came before us. I want them to know where they come from, the foundation they stand on, and the limitless possibilities ahead of them. They are the future, and it’s important that they recognize the legacy they will carry forward for generations to come.