The Energizing America Podcast

In Part 3 of Shane’s conversation with Andrew Paulson, the focus shifts to the skills and mindset behind successful industrial automation and I&E work. Andrew explains why flexibility, curiosity and a willingness to dig into technical information are essential when every facility, control system and troubleshooting call can be different.

They walk through how technicians approach complex problems involving drives, PLCs, interlocks and equipment from multiple manufacturers, including why it is important to understand the entire system rather than simply replacing the component reporting a fault. Andrew also discusses the role of manuals, manufacturer support, online research and AI—and why technicians still need to verify information and think through the problem themselves.

The episode closes with a look at automation and electrical career paths, the value of combining field skills with programming and controls knowledge, and the growing need for versatile technical talent as mines, ports, pipelines, manufacturing facilities and AI data centers become increasingly automated and electricity-intensive.

In this episode, Shane talks with Andrew Paulson, Automation Manager and IE Manager, about NFPA 70B and the importance of proactive electrical maintenance. Together, they take a practical look at electrical equipment maintenance, transformer testing, preventive maintenance, facility reliability, and electrical safety.

The conversation explores what NFPA 70B means for facilities developing and maintaining an effective electrical maintenance program. Shane and Andrew also discuss the real-world testing and maintenance performed during industrial shutdowns, including transformer oil sampling, dissolved gas analysis (DGA), turns ratio testing, insulation testing, equipment inspections, cleaning, and condition-based maintenance.

More importantly, they discuss why this work matters. A transformer or other critical piece of electrical equipment can be difficult and time-consuming to replace, and an unexpected failure can result in significant production downtime, lost revenue, electrical hazards, arc-flash risks, and safety concerns.

What does it really take to complete a successful industrial controls upgrade? In this episode of the Energizing America Podcast, Shane Stolp sits down with Andrew Paulson, Automation Manager at Wescom, to discuss the planning, programming, installation, and commissioning behind a major industrial controls upgrade during a critical facility shutdown.

Learn how outdated control systems are modernized, why commissioning is one of the most important phases of a project, and how proper planning helps reduce downtime, improve reliability, and keep industrial operations running efficiently.

Whether you're a maintenance manager, plant engineer, electrician, automation professional, or operations leader, this conversation offers valuable insight into industrial automation, PLC programming, control system modernization, commissioning, industrial maintenance, facility shutdowns, process controls, and reliability.

What makes people truly buy into a vision? In this episode of the Energizing America Podcast, Shane Stolp sits down with Destiny Bailey for an honest conversation about what it takes to build engaged teams and become a more effective leader. Together, they discuss why explaining the "why" is more powerful than simply giving direction, how leadership has evolved alongside today's workforce, and why creating genuine connections with people leads to stronger cultures and better results. Destiny also shares practical insights on overcoming self-doubt, embracing feedback, extending grace during different seasons of life, and leading with authenticity instead of trying to prove yourself. Whether you're leading a company, managing a crew, or simply looking to grow personally, this conversation is packed with practical takeaways you can put into action immediately. Sometimes one small leadership lesson can change the way you communicate, motivate, and inspire those around you.

Leadership isn't about having a title—it's about earning trust, inspiring others, and creating a vision people want to follow.

In this episode of the Energizing America Podcast, we sit down with Destiny, Director of Operations for Kinder Morgan, to discuss her remarkable 20-year journey from mechanical engineer to executive leadership.

Destiny shares the lessons she's learned through career transitions, leading teams across multiple states, building a culture of safety, and discovering that the best leaders are lifelong learners.

Shane sits down with Representative Cal Warwas to talk about mining, the Iron Range, and his journey from working as a welder and fabricator in the mines to representing the Iron Range at the Minnesota State Capitol.

Hear firsthand about the opportunities, challenges, and experiences that shaped his path, and the future of mining in Minnesota.

Shane sits down with Representative Cal Warwas to talk about mining, the Iron Range, and his journey from working as a welder and fabricator in the mines to representing the Iron Range at the Minnesota State Capitol.

Hear firsthand about the opportunities, challenges, and experiences that shaped his path, and the future of mining in Minnesota.

Shane sits down with Representative Cal Warwas to talk about mining, the Iron Range, and his journey from working as a welder and fabricator in the mines to representing the Iron Range at the Minnesota State Capitol.

Hear firsthand about the opportunities, challenges, and experiences that shaped his path, and the future of mining in Minnesota.

In this Energizing America podcast, Shane sits down with Dallas Erisman to introduce Wescom’s new Sales Development Manager in the Powder River region. Dallas shares his journey from working as an electrician in coal mining operations to building a career in sales, including time as a sales manager with Coca-Cola. With a strong foundation in both the technical and relationship sides of the industry, he brings a service-first approach focused on understanding customer needs and delivering the right solutions. The conversation highlights Dallas’s passion for connecting with people, his commitment to safety and integrity, and his excitement to support clients and grow relationships across Wyoming, North Dakota, and beyond.

In this episode, Representative Pete Stauber discusses his deep roots in Northern Minnesota and his transition from a 31-year career as a police officer and small business owner to a member of Congress. Stauber shares his "yearning to serve" the 8th District and emphasizes the importance of civil discourse and bipartisanship in modern politics. The conversation dives deep into the "economic engine" of the Iron Range, exploring the challenges of permitting reform, the strategic importance of critical minerals like nickel, and the future of American steelmaking following the U.S. Steel and Nippon Steel arrangement.