This episode of the Energizing America podcast dives into the rise of Applied Digital with CEO Wes Cummins. From bitcoin data centers to next-generation AI infrastructure, Wes shares how the company identified a massive opportunity, why North Dakota became the ideal place to build, and what the future of data centers, power demand, and AI growth looks like. It’s a conversation about innovation, energy, rural economic impact, and the rapidly evolving data center landscape.

In this episode of The Energizing America podcast, Shane sits down with Chris Temple, publisher of The National Investor, for a thought-provoking discussion on the widening gap between perception and reality in America’s energy and resource industries. From mining and manufacturing to national security and smart policy, Chris breaks down how globalization, politics, and public opinion have shaped our current challenges—and what it will take to close the gap and rebuild strength in our own backyard.

In this episode of Energizing America, we dive into Wescom’s Prove It program—a hands-on apprenticeship and training initiative shaping the future of the electrical industry. Shane and Jon discuss how this program bridges the growing skills gap, empowers electricians to advance their careers, and ensures clients get the safest, most qualified teams on every job. From classroom learning to real-world technical training, the Prove It program is helping Wescom and its employees truly live up to their mission to Energize America.

This episode of the Energizing America Podcast continues the conversation with Ryan Sistad from Better In Our Backyard. Ryan and Shane dig into the challenges of permitting mines in Minnesota, comparing the decades-long delays in projects on the Iron Range to states like Arizona where mines are permitted in just a few years. They explore how access to critical minerals like copper, nickel, and cobalt is not only an economic driver but also a national security issue. Ryan also shares insights on bringing new voices into the mining and energy conversation, the need for supply chain independence, and the vision behind Better In Our Backyard’s first national conference aimed at uniting leaders across mining and energy to push for responsible resource development.

Ryan Sistad, Executive Director, of Better In Our Back Yard sits down with Shane to discuss how he got his start with the organization, the importance of the mining industry, and where it is heading in the future.

On this episode of the Energizing America podcast, Shane sits down with Ryan Swor from Lake Superior Consulting to talk about the journey of entrepreneurship, intrapreneurship, and building resilient businesses in the energy industry. They dig into challenges like managing cash flow, leading through uncertainty, scaling teams, and learning to let go as organizations evolve. Ryan also shares valuable lessons on leadership, communication, and how to keep people at the center of every decision.

The conversation goes beyond business mechanics—they discuss how families, partners, and communities all play a role in supporting the energy workforce, and how leaders can balance persistence with patience when driving change.

Ryan also highlights Lake Superior Consulting’s new podcast, Manic Energy, which brings conversations about energy, business, and life. With its mix of education, motivation, and entertainment, Manic Energy offers a fresh perspective for anyone navigating today’s fast-paced world.

In Part 1 of the podcast, Shane Stolp sits down with Ryan Swor, President of Lake Superior Consulting, to dig into Ryan’s journey in the energy industry. Ryan shares how he got his start as a technician while finishing his degree, the hands-on fieldwork that took him across the country, and how those early years shaped his leadership style. He talks about balancing long hours, constant travel, and school, as well as the importance of trust, grit, and learning from every experience. Together, Shane and Ryan reflect on the challenges of building a career in energy, the culture of LSC, and how hard work and opportunity can open the door to leadership.

In this episode, Wescom leadership shares updates from a busy construction season and reflects on how the team is adapting to changes in the energy industry. They discuss the value of employee ownership, the success of the Prove It training program, and the importance of flexibility in both workforce and project management.

With ongoing diversification beyond oil and gas into pipeline, DOT, and industrial work, Wescom is focused on delivering quality, safety, and long-term value. A strong ESOP valuation highlights the team's impact and momentum heading into the future. Check it out!

In part two of our series with Warren, Westcom’s Client Relations Manager, we dive deeper into how he builds long-term client partnerships, keeps projects running smoothly, and motivates his team to deliver exceptional service! Check it out!