In a tight-knit neighborhood in downtown Birmingham, Joe Hampton grew up witnessing his parents tirelessly helping their Platt city neighbors.

“I came from humble beginnings,” Hampton recalled. “My dad worked in the mines and my mom was at a local salon. They didn’t earn much, but they were always ready to lend a hand when someone needed it.”

Now, as the president of Spire Alabama, covering the Gulf Coast and Mississippi, Hampton has not lost sight of his roots. The lessons he learned about generosity have profoundly influenced his leadership style.

“It’s an honor to lead in the same state where I grew up,” he said. “I want to set an example of what young people can achieve right here in Alabama.”

His approach to leadership is evident in how he mentors emerging talent and ensures that families have access to dependable energy.

“Every day, my aim is to arrive with enthusiasm and purpose,” he explained. “This means guiding those interested in our field, taking care of our customers, and supporting the team members who deliver excellent services daily.”

This sense of purpose traces back to 1992 when Hampton started as an intern at Alabama Gas Corporation. He climbed through the ranks, learning valuable lessons from diverse corners of the enterprise.

“From administrative staff to CEOs, everyone left an impression during interactions at the office,” he noted.

Investing in the Alabama Workforce

Hampton attributes his growth to mentors who believed in him, encouraging him to participate in crucial discussions. Now, as he gives back, he emphasizes workforce development in Spire’s southeastern region, helping cultivate the next generation of utility leaders.

This includes the new “Get into Energy” program, developed in partnership with Lawson State Community College. It provides students with hands-on training for entry-level roles in the natural gas sector.

The program’s initial group graduated in January 2025, with many securing jobs immediately. Graduates received certifications for CDL A training, OSHA 10 cards, CPR, trenching, skid steer, and mini excavator operations.

“I believe everyone deserves a fair shot at success, and it’s up to those with resources to step forward,” Hampton stated. “Building a skilled workforce benefits both Spire and Alabama as a whole.”

Being a Neighbor, Not Just a Utility

Community engagement isn’t just a strategy for Hampton; it’s woven into his upbringing.

“My mother’s kindness was remarkable,” he recalled. “She once picked up a stranger on the roadside and drove her where she needed to go. During the ride, she learned all about her life, and afterward, we would bring her a meal—witnessing my mom’s compassion left a lasting impact.”

This spirit of giving is reflected in how Spire supports students, nonprofits, and underserved communities across Alabama and Mississippi. Whether providing school supplies or meals, Hampton believes in the importance of impactful service.

“At its core, community investment is about using your resources to create a positive effect,” he emphasized. “This principle defines who we are as a company.”

In 2024, Spire contributed $6.5 million to community initiatives.

The company’s community relations team plays a crucial role in sustaining its ties with these neighborhoods. Under Hampton’s direction, the Southeast team focuses on supporting underserved groups through regular engagement with local leaders and ongoing communication with Alabama’s representatives in Washington, DC.

“This level of engagement raises awareness about what Spire offers the community,” he noted. “Our goal is to educate residents on our services, paving the way for volunteers to spread this information.”

Looking Ahead

After over 30 years in the field, what drives him is the daily impact Spire has in the lives of customers.

“It’s hard not to feel excited working for a company that consistently provides reliable and affordable energy while making our communities a bit better every day,” he commented.

Having been part of Alabama for more than 160 years, Hampton believes that future success will hinge on nurturing new leaders, fostering relationships, and positively affecting lives.

“Through my actions, I want my team to recognize that caring for others is central to being an effective leader,” he concluded.