Meet Moonlight Substation’s engineering project manager

At Electrical District No. 3 (ED3), our success is powered not only by the infrastructure we build but also by the dedicated people behind each project. For our “People and Project” spotlight, we’re proud to feature Shakil Sattar, Engineering Project Manager, and his work on one of ED3’s most recent impactful initiatives: the Moonlight Substation Project.

Shakil joined ED3 just over a year ago, bringing with him nearly two decades of diverse experience in the energy and utility sector. His career began at Eversource in Boston, Mass., where he started in the GIS department before transitioning into Underground Operations as a High Voltage Cable Splicer. While working, he pursued his education and earned a master’s degree in project management, laying the foundation for leadership opportunities to follow.

From there, Shakil took on a leadership role at National Grid as Supervisor for Electric Operations – Underground Lines, where he managed crews and infrastructure. This role opened the door to consulting on large-scale generation projects, expanding his exposure to complex energy systems. Later, at Osmose in New York City, he led two pilot programs that advanced standards for both overhead and underground inspections.

Another opportunity with Asplundh allowed Shakil to help build their Underground Operations department. As a Foreman, he successfully completed eight circuit reconductor projects across Massachusetts. Prior to joining ED3, he served as a Construction Manager in Arizona, overseeing telecom projects that expanded open-access fiber infrastructure, bringing high-speed connectivity to underserved communities.

Looking back, Shakil recalls one of his proudest accomplishments: building a new team and guiding them through complex underground reconductor projects from survey to final testing. “That experience sharpened my leadership, problem-solving, and technical skills,” he reflects, “and those lessons continue to guide me in every project I manage today.”

“I’m truly grateful to our management team for the opportunity to be part of ED3,” Shakil adds. “It’s been an incredible environment for learning, growth, and collaboration with some of the most dedicated professionals in the industry.”

The Moonlight Substation Project

Located along Highway 238, the Moonlight Substation is a cornerstone of ED3’s efforts to meet the growing energy demands in northwestern Maricopa. With substantial completion expected by the end of 2025, the substation will improve electrical reliability, enhance load distribution, and support the area’s rapid residential and commercial development.

As Project Manager, Shakil played a central role in:

• Managing engineering design and subcontractors

• Overseeing procurement of transformers and enclosed switchgear

• Coordinating with city officials to streamline approvals

• Reviewing technical documentation and resolving field challenges

One of his key contributions was implementing a streamlined communication process between ED3, subcontractors, and engineering consultants. This proactive approach helped minimize delays, manage procurement challenges, and kept the project on track.

“Every member—from field crews and subcontractors to engineering and utility teams—worked together with a shared focus on delivering a high-quality result,” Shakil says.

For the community, Moonlight means fewer outages, greater reliability, and infrastructure that supports growth safely and sustainably. For ED3, it demonstrates our ability to deliver complex, large-scale planned projects on schedule and within budget.

“It was rewarding to see the project come to life from design through execution,” Shakil reflects. “Knowing the impact it has on the community gave me a real sense of accomplishment. It reminded me why I chose this career—to help deliver meaningful, lasting solutions.”

At ED3, the ability to operate safely and efficiently is the result of countless moving parts working in harmony. Shakil emphasizes the importance of recognizing the incredible efforts of colleagues—because, as he notes, “we succeed together.” He highlights that everything ED3 does is rooted in a strong safety culture and offers special acknowledgment to the Safety leadership for their unwavering commitment to keeping linemen and field technicians safe.

Shakil often reminds his team that no project succeeds without teamwork. He shares that he is continually inspired by the support he receives from his coworkers at ED3. He credits Ed Stevens, Technical Services Manager, as a significant source of knowledge and guidance, saying that working closely with Ed on various projects has been a privilege. He also highlights the contributions of Ed’s team, including Substation Technicians, the Metering Department, Relay Technicians, and the Maintenance & Inspection team, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to learn from such skilled professionals.

As Maricopa continues to grow, projects like Moonlight Substation are essential to powering the future. Shakil’s journey at ED3 underscores how strong leadership, technical expertise, and collaboration fuel the district’s success.

“When people see the results of this project, I hope they recognize the value of long-term investment in infrastructure and the dedication of the people who make it happen,” he says.

At ED3, we’re proud to celebrate the people behind the power that keeps our community moving forward.

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