Roger W Smith

A degree in communications and a love of human interaction have always influenced Roger W. Smith's personal and professional life. A devoted "people watcher" fascinated by human behavior, Smith has always been driven to better understand how we work, play, and live together.

Smith began working in the utility software business in 1994 when he joined Central Service Association in Tupelo, Mississippi, as a communications specialist. He later moved into marketing and eventually became Chief Business Development Officer in 2009. During this time, Smith earned his CPSv and CPE certifications from TVPPA and participated in dozens of additional continuing education classes in marketing, branding, leadership, communications, and more.

Then, in the summer of 2022, Smith embarked on a new journey. Utilizing his experience, industry knowledge, personal connections, and a love of the public utility industry, Smith created RWSmith ETC, LLC, focusing on education, training, and consulting primarily in the utility sector.

On August 28, 2026, Smith released his debut nonfiction book, They Don't Build Monuments Honoring Managers: Observations on Leadership and Education's Role in the Workplace, a practical leadership guide built around his Nine Traits of Effective Leaders framework, drawn from decades of real-world experience in organizational development and workforce training.

Smith also writes fiction under the pen name R. Willis Smith. His debut thriller, Operation Hoplon — the first book in the Joshua Booker series — is available on Amazon and through your favorite bookstore. Two additional books in the series are scheduled for release this fall.

Married for over 38 years to his best friend and new boss, Lisa, they have one adult child. Smith loves college sports — especially Mississippi State University football and baseball — reading, golf, woodworking, travel, and cooking.