Before Erin could finish, Tom spoke up. “Yes, Larry— you and Erin work up an energy plan—like those aggregate production plans you’re always bringing in. And have it ready by Thursday.”

The discussion was getting heated. A brightly colored chart at the front of the room told the story all too well. At Waylan Industries sales were up, profits down. “Larry, there’s no way we can hit our profit objective with your high cost of production. You’ve got to cut back.” “Why pick on me? We’re running bare bones as it is. Last winter’s energy prices really killed us. How can you cut costs with a 250% increase in energy prices?” Everyone stared at Erin. Erin swallowed hard and spokeup.