In this episode of PowerGridTalks, host Thomas Williamson sits down with IBEW representatives Shannon Davis and Glen Sutherland for an honest, detailed conversation about what it really takes to become a union lineman. From understanding the IBEW application process to navigating apprenticeships, training expectations, and long-term career opportunities, this episode breaks down every step of the journey.

Shannon and Glen share insights on:

• How to get started with the IBEW

• What makes a strong apprenticeship candidate

• Requirements, testing, interviews, and work readiness

• The realities of union linework—pay, benefits, safety, and lifestyle

• Mentorship, brotherhood, and building a long, successful career in the trade

Whether you're preparing to apply, already in line school, or considering a future in the electric utility industry, this episode offers clear guidance, practical advice, and inspiration from two leaders dedicated to helping the next generation succeed.

In this episode of PowerGridTalks, host Thomas Williamson interviews Ray Lawyer, Training Superintendent for a major utility company, to uncover what it really takes to build the next generation of linemen. With decades of field and leadership experience, Ray breaks down how utility training programs, hands-on apprenticeships, and real-world simulation technology are shaping the future of the power grid workforce.

Ray shares powerful insights into the evolution of lineworker education, the critical role of safety culture, and how mentorship and teamwork prepare apprentices for life on the line. He also discusses how utilities are adapting to new challenges—from renewable energy integration to grid modernization—while ensuring reliability and resilience.

If you're interested in lineman careers, utility workforce development, or how the electric power industry is training the next generation of essential workers, this episode is packed with practical knowledge and inspiration.

Stay connected with us at: https://powergridtalks.com

In this episode of PowerGridTalks, host Thomas Williamson sits down with Travas Deal, CEO of Colorado Springs Utilities, to discuss his remarkable journey from the U.S. Marine Corps to leading one of the nation's most respected public utilities.

Travas shares how his background in service, discipline, and teamwork has shaped his leadership philosophy and approach to building a resilient, forward-thinking organization. The conversation covers everything from energy diversification and infrastructure modernization to community engagement, workforce development, and what it takes to lead through constant change in the utility sector.

(1:20) - Travas and His Background (8:49) - A Day In The Life (11:58) - Employee Recognition (19:50) - Safety Education for the Public (24:21) - Balancing Infrastructure Needs (31:33) - The Complexity of Cost Learn more about PowerGridTalks at: https://powergridtalks.com

In this episode of PowerGridTalks, host Thomas Williamson talks with newly topped-out journeyman Robbie Emery about the dedication, discipline, and drive it takes to become a lineman. Robbie shares his journey from the early days of line school to earning his place on the crew, offering a real look at the challenges and rewards of working in the electric utility industry.

They dive into the mindset required to make it through apprenticeship, what "topping out" really means, and how to stay safe, humble, and hungry as you grow in the trade. Robbie also reflects on mentorship, training, and the balance between family life and linework.

Whether you're a lineman in training, a utility professional, or just curious about the people who keep the lights on, this episode delivers authentic insight into the craft, culture, and commitment behind every power line.

(0:48) - Robbie's Background (6:59) - Training Robbie Received (13:50) - Learning Curves and Biggest Struggles (18:18) - First Overnight Call Out (22:14) - Evolution of Robbie's View of the Industry (26:06) - Advice For Others Interested in the Industry (29:10) - Quick Fire Questions Stay connected with us at: https://powergridtalks.com

In this episode of PowerGridTalks, host Thomas Williamson talks with veteran lineman Jason Novak about the lessons he's learned from decades in the trade. From starting out having no idea what a lineman was, to becoming a respected foreman at Ameren Illinois and a long-time competitor in the International Lineman's Rodeo, Jason shares the grit, discipline, and mindset required to thrive in one of the toughest industries.

Jason opens up about the evolution of safety practices, the realities of working through storms and outages, the camaraderie of rodeo competition, and the challenges of balancing career and family in a high-demand profession. He also highlights the importance of mentorship, knowledge-sharing, and leadership in shaping the next generation of linemen.

(0:59) - Jason's Industry Background (4:59) - A Day in the Life (8:20) - Mindset on Safety (9:49) - Outside vs. Inside (14:44) - Safety vs. Training (23:50) - Lineman Rodeo (31:00) - Climbin' for Kids (38:43) - Quick-Fire Questions Learn more about Climbin' for Kids here: https://linktr.ee/climbin4kids?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAafp__wr7cTqZQN5uMqmaeqHYKH5qqFIRay6hrvy4gl3Yi9DyK9L059biPqKoQ_aem_iGxYWJHxvtpRCHaXsTJccA

In this episode of PowerGridTalks, host Thomas Williamson sits down with journeyman lineman Jesse McKeral, also known on TikTok as afewclickslow. Jesse shares his unique journey into the trade, starting with a high school youth apprenticeship program that gave him hands-on experience long before line schools became popular.

We dive into:

• How Jesse transitioned from apprentice to journeyman while learning from old-school linemen.

• Why training and knowledge—not just safety—are critical for the next generation of linemen.

• The behind-the-scenes story of his TikTok presence, where he teaches practical linework lessons to thousands.

• How Hot Tail Line Co. started as a simple sticker design and grew into a brand for linemen.

• The importance of mentorship, family support, and passing on knowledge in an ever-changing utility industry.

(0:53) - Jesse's Start in the Industry (7:03) - afewclickslow on TikTok (12:32) - Higher Emphasis on Training (14:46) - Hot Tail Line Co. (17:32) - Quick Fire Questions

👉 Follow Jesse on TikTok: @afewclickslow 👉 Learn more at PowerGridTalks.com where we bring the voices of linemen, leaders, and innovators to the mic.

In this episode of PowerGridTalks, host Tom Williamson sits down with Tammy Kent, co-founder of ATK Energy Group and OneSource Restoration (OSR), to explore her incredible journey through the utility industry. From her early days helping build a company with her husband, to creating OSR from the ground up, Tammy shares the resilience, vision, and grit it takes to thrive in such a demanding field.

She shares the origin of linemanbarn.com, the lessons learned from countless storm responses, and the path that led her to co-founding ATK Energy Group, a company focused on innovation and service in the power and energy sector.

(1:15) - Background on Tammy's Businesses

(3:33) - Tammy's Start in the Industry

(7:37) - Lineman Barn

(25:46) - General Public's Biggest Misunderstanding

(27:58) - Building Key Relationships

(39:23) - Being a Female Leader in a Male-Dominated Space

(43:45) - Biggest Changes in Utility Industry

(46:44) - Renewables

(48:22) - Storm Response

Stay connected at https://powergridtalks.com