Keepin' The Lights On
Keepin' The Lights On is a podcast that connects with the owners and professionals who design, build, and maintain our electrical, communications, and industrial world. Each episode is designed for a lunch break, offering quick discussions on new solutions for project and facility challenges. The show features conversations with industry leaders from electrical construction, communications, smart manufacturing, municipalities, building management, and manufacturing. It aims to bring fresh ideas to the problems we face today in these sectors.
Episodes
Surge and Seismic Challenges in Data Centers
Here’s where I ask a huge favor from you, I’m creating a newsletter as a way for you to share your thoughts on the episodes, share guest ideas and for me to give you insight into future episodes, and of course share great restaurants with you, please subscribe at https://www.graybar.com/podcast#subscribe.In this episode I speak with Ron Hotchkiss, Senior Principal Engineer (Surge Protection Engine
Health and Lighting w Kim Mercier
Here’s where I ask a huge favor from you, I’m creating a newsletter as a way for you to share your thoughts on the episodes, share guest ideas and for me to give you insight into future episodes, and of course share great restaurants with you, please subscribe at https://www.graybar.com/podcast#subscribe.In this episode I speak with Kim Mercier about how lighting affects more than vision, includi
Building the Electrical Workforce One Student at a Time w LaNa Al-Amin and Tom Alexander
In this episode I speak with LaNa Al-Amin and Tom Alexander about how the IEC Foundation is helping grow a well-trained electrical workforce. We discuss misconceptions about apprenticeships, the barriers that can keep students from completing their education, and why strong training and company culture matter. LaNa and Tom explain how scholarships, tools, mentoring, safety and job-readiness progra
Why Specialty Systems Need the Right Design Early
n this episode I speak with Jon Irvine about two specialty systems that can save plant operators from bigger problems: heat trace and liquid leak detection. John explains why these systems are often needed late in a project, how poor planning or the wrong product can create freeze-ups, nuisance alarms, or missed leaks, and why contractors need technical support before installation starts. We also
Rethinking Data Center Builds with Rob Conrad
In this episode, Rob Conrad, Director of Pricing and Channel Marketing at Legrand North America, shares insights on the challenges and innovations in data center development, including size, complexity, and sustainability. Discover how industry trends are shaping the future of data infrastructure and what manufacturers and contractors are doing to keep pace.Here’s where I ask a huge favor from you
EC Construction Tech Workflows w Melissa Dixon
Unlock the secret to transforming the construction industry—where communication silos and outdated workflows are holding everyone back. Melissa Dixon, shares her grounded insights on how digital workflows are reshaping project efficiency from the field to the office—and why adapting now matters more than ever. Construction projects often still rely on scribbles, phone calls, and guesswork, which c
Economics and the Electrical Supply Chain w Chris Sokoll
In this episode, guest Chris Sokoll, president of DISC Corp, a leading provider of electrical wholesale industry economic forecasting discusses the critical role of electrical distribution in the US economy.He also covers the importance of data integrity, and future trends like clean energy and infrastructure upgrades.Here’s where I ask a huge favor from you, I’m creating a newsletter as a way for
Going The Middle Mile w Walt Donovan
Here’s where I ask a huge favor from you, I’m creating a newsletter as a way for you to share your thoughts on the episodes, share guest ideas and for me to give you insight into future episodes, and of course share great restaurants with you, please subscribe at https://www.graybar.com/podcast#subscribe.In this episode, Walt Donovan, VP of Strategic Partnerships at DYCOM Industries, explains the
Industrial Business Insights with Anne Vranicic, Valin Corporation President
Here’s where I ask a huge favor from you, I’m creating a newsletter as a way for you to share your thoughts on the episodes, share guest ideas and for me to give you insight into future episodes, and of course share great restaurants with you, please subscribe at https://www.graybar.com/podcast#subscribe.We talk about how retiring talent, supply chain chaos, and digital transformation create oppo
Industrial Automation Trends w Brian Crawford
Explore the world of industrial automation with Brian Crawford on "Keepin' The Lights On." Discover insights into manpower challenges and innovative solutions. Tune in to learn how industries are evolving.Here’s where I ask a huge favor from you, I’m creating a newsletter as a way for you to share your thoughts on the episodes, share guest ideas and for me to give you insight into future episodes,
The Future of Independent Electrical Reps with Jim Johnson, NEMRA CEO
Here’s where I ask a huge favor from you, I’m creating a newsletter as a way for you to share your thoughts on the episodes, share guest ideas and for me to give you insight into future episodes, and of course share great restaurants with you, please subscribe at https://www.graybar.com/podcast#subscribe.We explore the vital role of manufacturer reps in the electrical industry, their evolving res
Mastering the 8-Day Renovation with the Renovation Hunters Showrunners
In this episode Todd speaks with Hal Shaffer and Chris Filardi, creators of the inspiring show, Renovation Hunters. The show focuses on outdoor family property renovations, community impact, and the importance of relationships and teamwork in complex projects.I’m creating a show newsletter to help me communicate with you the listener/viewer. Please click on the link to sign up for the newsletter:
How Foremen Shape a Culture of Learning Ep073 w Heath Blackburn
Heath Blackburn from Wheeler Electric reveals how foremen are pivotal in transforming company culture. By engaging foremen in the Foreman Academy, they fostered a culture of continuous learning and collaboration, proving that foremen are key to driving meaningful change and growth.Here’s where I ask a huge favor from you, I’m creating a newsletter as a way for you to share your thoughts on the epi
Better GC and EC Relationships with Max Gallaway
In this episode, Max Galloway, VP of Max Electric Inc., shares insights on building strong relationships between electrical contractors and general contractors, navigating complex contracts, and improving collaboration in the construction industry.Here’s where I ask a huge favor from you, I’m creating a newsletter as a way for you to share your thoughts on the episodes, share guest ideas and for m
Is Your Company Culture Nice or KIND? With Andie Herbert and Rachel Gass
In this conversation, Todd Reed engages with Andy Herbert and Rachel Gass from Be Kind Lyfe Consulting to explore the significance of company culture, particularly the distinction between being 'nice' and 'kind.' They discuss how a positive culture can impact business performance, employee engagement, and innovation.The K.I.N.D framework is introduced as a guide for fostering a supportive workplac
AI, Innovation, and Culture in Construction with Leah Mack, Allison Smith
In this episode I speak with Leah Mack, a project manager at Allison Smith, about the implementation of AI in the construction industry. We discuss the challenges and successes Leah has experienced while integrating AI into her daily work, the role of the Innovation Institute in her journey, and the importance of company culture in fostering innovation. Leah shares insights on developing AI traini
Navigating the Confluence of Construction and Tech with Kassy Slaughter
In this episode, Todd Reed speaks with Kassy Slaughter about the current state of the construction industry, focusing on labor shortages, the impact of technology, and the importance of company culture. They discuss the challenges faced by the industry, including misconceptions about construction careers, the need for a cultural shift, and the role of data and AI in improving workforce engagement.
Prefab Works! With Brian Yetter, Electrical Contractor
In this episode, I speak with Brian Yetter, a prefabrication manager, about the growing importance of prefabrication in the construction industry. We discuss the challenges and successes of implementing prefab, the significance of communication and collaboration among teams, and how technology is leveraged to improve processes. Brian shares insights on building a culture of innovation and the impo
Track Jobsite Time More Effectively with Shawn Ryan and BuildTime
Be a Keepin’ The Lights On Insider. Here’s a chance for me to hear what is important to you so I can bring the best content to this show. In addition, I’ll update you on guests, new shows, and of course fun restaurants from around the world. Click here to sign up: https://www.graybar.com/podcast#podcastsubscribe?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show_notes&utm_campaign=keepin-the-lights-on-202
Revolutionizing Data Center Cooling with Chatsworth Sponsor Highlight 02
In this conversation, Robb Jones, Area Vice President of Sales at Chatsworth Products (CPI), discusses the critical need for advanced cooling solutions in data centers driven by the convergence of AI and high-performance computing (HPC). He highlights CPI's innovative liquid cooling technologies, which are essential for managing the increasing heat output from modern GPUs. The discussion also cove
Keep AI Running w Structured Cabling Sponsor Highlight with Panduit
In this sponsor highlight episode, Bob Wagner from Panduit discusses the company's role in AI data centers, focusing on power requirements, the importance of structured cabling, and maximizing space within data centers. He highlights the increasing power demands of AI systems and the innovative solutions Panduit offers to address these challenges, including new power distribution units and structu
Be Yourself Sooner with David Charles
(00:00:00) Intro to David Charles
(00:03:01) Overcoming Shyness and Building Connections
(00:05:52) Navigating Career Changes and Discovering Passions
(00:08:47) The Importance of Networking and Mentorship
(00:12:05) Embracing Authenticity and Personal Growth
(00:14:51) Content Creation and Professional Development
(00:18:01) Finding Motivation and Purpose in the AEC Industry
In this episode I in
Resilience and Purpose in Business with Maureen O'Brien
(00:00:00) Navigating Disruptions and Resilience
(00:04:28) Leadership Challenges in Uncertain Times
(00:07:03) Communication: The Key to Team Performance
(00:11:17) Understanding Generational Differences in the Workplace
(00:13:17) The Role of Empathy in Leadership
(00:15:34) Building Resilience in Leadership
(00:20:45) Connecting Daily Work to a Larger Purpose
In this conversation, Maureen O'Br
10 Surprising Things That Impact Lighting with LisaReed
(00:00:00) The Importance of Lighting in Architecture
(00:05:54) Understanding the Role of a Lighting Designer
(00:11:44) Impact of Ceiling and Surface Materials on Lighting
(00:17:38) The Influence of Millwork and Partitions on Lighting Design
(00:23:25) Designing for the End User: Age and Task Considerations
(00:29:19) Future Trends in Lighting Design
(00:35:26) The Human Element in Lighting Des
Keeping AI Computing Cool with Bob Wagner
(00:00:00) The Importance of Infrastructure in AI Computing
(00:04:53) Challenges of Power Consumption in AI
(00:11:11) Retrofitting vs. New Data Centers for AI
(00:20:28) Optimizing Power Distribution for High-Density Racks
(00:25:10) Emerging Cooling Technologies for AI Workloads
(00:29:22) Structured Cabling Solutions for AI
(00:35:59) Future-Proofing Data Centers for AI Adoption
(00:38:21) Mot
Natural Laws of Business with Ari Weinzweig from Zingerman's
(00:00:00) Intentional Leadership and Team Empowerment
(00:09:56) The Zingerman's Community of Businesses
(00:19:45) Visioning: Crafting the Future
(00:29:22) The Hard Work Behind Success
(00:39:43) Open Book Management and Financial Transparency
(00:48:12) Creating a Great Organizational Culture
In this conversation, Ari Weinzweig, co-founder of Zingerman's, discusses his journey from a dishwash
From Ladder to Tech Leadership with James Hatfield, LiveSwitch
(00:00:00) Introduction to LiveSwitch and James Hatfield
(00:02:51) James Hatfield's Journey from Contractor to Tech Innovator
(00:06:35) The Impact of Technology on Contractor Businesses
(00:12:01) Expanding Use Cases: Beyond Contractors
(00:14:57) Navigating the Tech Landscape for Contractors
(00:19:36) The Future of Technology in the Contractor Industry
(00:22:47) Inmates to Entrepreneurs: Givi
Update Your Business Operating System with EOS - Guest Bruce Sheridan
(00:00:00) Update Your Business Operating System with EOS - Guest Bruce Sheridan
(00:06:19) Introduction to EOS and Business Challenges
(00:08:51) Understanding EOS: Vision, Traction, and Health
(00:17:35) Common Problems Leading to EOS Implementation
(00:26:27) Plateauing Growth: Hitting the Ceiling
(00:35:31) The Importance of Accountability in Business
(00:44:31) Fostering a Healthy Company Cul
Electrical Construction Insights with Steve Killius
(00:00:00) Introduction to Steve Killius and His Journey
(00:02:06) Dining and Personal Insights
(00:03:12) Role and Responsibilities at Legrand
(00:04:16) Defining Success
(00:05:32) Understanding Small vs. Large Contractors
(00:10:55) The Importance of Contractor Associations
(00:12:18) Advice on Association Engagement
(00:15:19) Impact of Construction Industry Research
(00:19:16) Technology Cha
Your Personal Energy Matters with Anese Cavanaugh, Author & CEO
(00:00:00) Your Personal Energy Matters with Anese Cavanaugh, Author & CEO
(00:06:57) Understanding Intentional Energetic Presence (IEP)
(00:14:32) The Impact of Energy on Leadership and Culture
(00:21:27) Practical Steps for Enhancing Workplace Energy
(00:24:32) The Future of Energetic Accountability
In this conversation, Anese Cavanaugh discusses the significance of personal energy in the workp
Empowering Electrical Contractors with IEC Chapter CEO Marilyn Akers Stansbury
In this conversation, Marilyn Akers Stansbury, CEO of the IEC Rocky Mountain Chapter, discusses her journey and the vital role of the Independent Electrical Contractors (IEC) in supporting electrical contractors. The conversation covers key themes such as safety in the electrical industry, workforce development through apprenticeship programs, the challenges faced by electrical contractors in runn
Electrical Contractor Business Benchmarks w Josh Bone, ELECTRI International
(00:00:00) Electrical Contractor Business Benchmarks w Josh Bone, ELECTRI International
(00:05:28) Project Basics
(00:15:31) Evolution of an EC Business
(00:23:17) Project Progress
(00:32:16) Who is This For?
(00:33:19) What to Measure in Business?
(00:38:22) Passion for the Industry
Business financial and operation benchmarks are invaluable as you look to improve your business numbers and servic
Safety and Mental Health with Wes Wheeler
Safety in the workplace is critical in any job, but it is tough to achieve on a job that involves construction. Sites can be very dangerous environments as well as the work being very taxing. I reached out to see if Wes Wheeler, NECA’s Executive Director of Safety, could discuss the state of safety in construction. It didn’t take us long before mental health came up as the focus of our conversatio
Navigating NFPA 70B & 70E with Nathan Owens III
Building owners face a challenge moving forward as they learn how to maintain and replace their aging infrastructure. In this episode, I speak with Nathan Owens III, Director of US Channel Services and Partner Programs with Schneider to talk through the significance of the NFPA 70 B and 70E standards. In addition, Nate talks about the opportunities available to electrical contractors as they help
Construction Project Communication Challenges
Have you seen projects/tasks delayed because of communication problems? Have you taken time to do a post project debrief to understand the causes of these communication gaps? During last year’s NECA convention, I sat down with Amanda King to talk over her thoughts on the best ways to improve communication between the field and the office at an electrical contractor.Amanda King is a leadership coac
Streamline EV Network Projects with Michael Shumway
Creating an effective EV network can be a complex task. I asked, Mike Shumway, Strategic Account Manager for Graybar Renewables in the Southwest, to come on and talk me through the process. Mike is driving electrification by empowering electrical contractors to succeed in the EV charging space. Mike collaborates with clients to develop innovative strategies and navigate the complex challenges with
State of Electrical Education
It seems we hear, in every other episode, about the need for qualified trained trades people. So, when I had a chance to speak with Marty Riesberg, Electrical Training Alliance Director, I jumped at the opportunity to understand the current state of technical training. The Electrical Training Alliance or ETA, created in 1941, to standardize the training for the NECA employers and the electricians
Better Construction with SOPs with Hala Nassereddine
Most of us wouldn’t cook a complicated meal without a good recipe. What if we could adapt the concept of a recipe to construction. There are repeatable processes in construction that, if properly documented, would insure a more efficient and quality build. I spoke with Hala Nassereddine, Associate Professor and industry consultant, to learn more about her work with Electri International around the
Building a Trades Community w Trade Hounds, Jeanette Abrahamsen and Jon Clark
What if the construction trades had a social media platform geared toward their work needs? A place where they can get help from their peers on how to solve field problems, discuss work/pay topics, and share insights on creating a great life with an amazing career. Such a place exists and it’s called Trade Hounds. I had a great opportunity to speak with Jon Clark, CTO, and Jeanette Abrahamsen, VP
Supporting Technical Education with Dustin Stelzer
Everyone from homeowners to pros look for videos to either learn or hone skills. If you’re a construction professional, you’ll want to watch someone you can trust is providing you with accurate content.Dustin Stelzer is just that content provider. He began Electrician U as a way of teaching electricians skills using YouTube and Social media. He has big plans on how he wants to support the industry
Construction Education With Partnerships w Toffee Coleman
I speak with Toffee Coleman, from Fluke, about the value of teaming up with schools, training programs, and industry associations to boost learning and skill-building.Thank you for listening and please take a moment to subscribe, rate, and review our show on your favorite app.To get a hold of us here at Keepin’ The Lights On, please email: podcast@graybar.comTo reach Toffee Coleman on LinkedIn: h
Building a Strong Electrical Contractor Culture with Mica Ashmore
I believe one way to keep the energy and productivity up in a company is to spend time ensuring your culture is strong. In this episode I speak with, Mica Ashmore, Strategic Business Integration Manager with Alterman Electric. He shares ideas on ways to create a culture of engagement, empowerment, and accountability. Thank you for listening and please take a moment to subscribe, rate, and review o
Construction Mental Health with Dr. Sally Spencer-Thomas
Construction faces a crisis. Unfortunately, construction ranks as first or second on lists as one of the industries with the highest incidents of suicide.Fortunately, the construction industry isn’t sitting idle. They’ve created many programs to support and come alongside all in the industry. I spoke to many different representatives from the industry about this topic to learn more. There was one
AI's Impact on Data Centers with Mike Connaughton
Mike Connaughton discusses AI's impact on data centers. We explore the challenges and opportunities AI brings, including increased power, cooling, and connectivity needs.Mike has 30+ years of experience with fiber optic cabling and is responsible for strategic data center account support and alliances at Leviton. He has received the Aegis Excellence Award from the U.S. Navy for his work on the Fib
Improving Job Coordination w Software w Adam Ketterer
How can software support contractor coordination with the field, distribution, and other trades? Adam Ketterer, Co-Founder and Senior Sales Director at AEC Inspire to share advancements he’s seeing in construction software. Thank you for listening and please take a moment to subscribe, rate, and review our show on your favorite app.To get a hold of us here at Keepin’ The Lights On, please email: p
VDC in Telecom Construction w Jason Young, IES
Jason Young, Virtual Design Director at IES Communications, shares how he’s implemented the principles of VDC in the telecom space to improve the efficiency of construction projects. Thank you for listening and please take a moment to subscribe, rate, and review our show on your favorite app.To get a hold of us here at Keepin’ The Lights On, please email: podcast@graybar.comTo reach Jason on Linke
Healthcare Lighting Trends w Tommy Nichols w Acuity
Great lighting is critical for a healthcare facility in providing quality care to their community. But what are the unique needs of different kinds of healthcare buildings, from medical offices to urgent care centers? Tommy Nichols, Business Development Director for Healthcare with Acuity Brands Lighting joins me to shine a light on the latest in healthcare lighting.Thank you for listening and ple
Security Megatrends with Don Erickson, SIA CEO
I’ve had episodes about cybersecurity, which is in the news every day. But what about physical building/plant security? It is not immune from advanced methods of attack and changes in technology.I asked Don Erickson, CEO of the Security Industry Association, if he could come on the show to share what megatrends may impact the security world in the next few years.In this episode Don shares his insi
Profile of the Electrical Contractor with EC Magazine
Every other year, Electrical Contractor Magazine conducts a survey of its reader base to get a better understanding of the state of the Electrical Contractor. In this episode Andre Klee and Julie Mazur, from EC Magazine, share an overview of the trends they’ve seen from this year’s survey.You’ll learn what projects dominated their schedules, the change in the size of their businesses, and what is
Healthcare Construction w Christine Dickinson
To meet the growing needs of communities, as well as improving quality of care, healthcare providers often look to construction as a way of meeting these demands. Construction projects, obviously, create budget and time concerns to providing cost effective and efficient care. Fortunately, there are steps they can take to ensure a more successful construction project.In this episode I talk with Chr
State of EV Charging with Kenneth Davis, Snr Mgr Chargepoint
On this episode of Keepin’ The Lights On, my guest is Kenneth Davis, Senior Manager of Electrical Distribution for ChargePoint, the largest network of EV charging stations in the world.Ken helps me on my journey to learn more about EV charging. Whether you're a business owner, a driver, or just curious about this fast-growing industry you should learn a few things as well.We'll cover some of the c
Microgrids with Sam and Don from Schneider Electric
With the growth of EVs, disruptions in utility power grids, and other demands on our electrical infrastructure, microgrid deployment is growing and looking at impressive growth over the next few years. That all said, this is a pretty new topic for me so I wanted to turn to Samantha (Sam) Childress and Donald (Don) Wingate both with Schneider Electric MicroGrid Solutions.Sam is expanding the global
Labelling, ICT, and YouTube w Todd Morse Brother Solutions
Todd Morse needed a way of talking with customers during COVID about labelling and Brother Solutions. He decided to start a YouTube channel and ended up calling his show BS with Todd. He started by showing product demos and sharing labelling standards. The show has evolved into a show that features leaders in the ICT (Information and Communications Technology) industry discussing the latest trends
EV Charging Innovation with Miller Electric and Kerri Stewart
As electric vehicle technology evolves, so does our understanding on how to design and build the infrastructure that will support the growing network of EVs. I talk with Kerri Stewart, Miller EV Solutions Chief Strategy Officer, and President, to learn what Miller Electric is doing to innovate in this growing market.Thank you for listening and please take a moment to subscribe, rate, and review o
Charging EV Fleets w Jay Hudson Blink Charging
EVs for personal use has seen steady growth over the past few years. One area we’ll begin seeing more growth in is EV commercial fleet use. There are many considerations a fleet manager must work through to transition from internal combustion engine (ICE) to electric vehicles (EV). Choosing the right vehicles, building out the right charging platform, and EV software selection are just a few of th
Avoid IT Project Black Swans w Rick Stuart, Vision Technologies
Construction projects are complex and no matter the size, there are risks of cost and deadline overruns. IT focused projects are no exception. Harvard Business Review states that at least one in six IT projects turn into a Black Swan with a cost overrun of 200%. A PWC study published on Forbes stated that there was an estimated $50-150 Billion in lost revenue from failed IT projects.On this episod
Cybersecurity Zero Trust with Pamela Kubiatowski
I know the importance of proper Cybersecurity in my personal life and company. I hadn’t spent too much time thinking about how well the companies I work with are doing to protect themselves. As I spoke with my guest this week, Pamela Kubiatowski, Global VP, CTO in Residence at Zscaler, my eyes were open to how collaborative cybersecurity is up and down the supply chain and the concept of Zero Trus
How to Stop Worrying and Love Lighting Controls with Steve Roe
Lighting controls can be as simple as the same switch you see in our logo to complex multi-building wide network-driven systems. There are many reasons to switch to more complex controls. But many have concerns or fears about installing them. To help ease those fears I spend some time with Steve Roe, Vice President of Controls at Acuity. You can also find Steve on YouTube in Roe On Controls. These
From Contractor to ConTech with Nate Tockerman
Electrical Contractor construction technology and software have come a long way since its earliest days. The companies providing the services are doing a better job of learning from the industry and designing solutions that are helping ECs get their jobs done more efficiently. I was fortunate to sit with Nate Tockerman, Structshare’s Director of Partnerships, at the most recent NECA convention. He
Supporting The Industry w Bill Hughes, Milwaukee Tool
I’ve always been impressed how Milwaukee Tool works to improve the construction industry through associations. Their support goes beyond simply paying membership fees. It takes a well-thought-out strategy and plan to benefit both the industry and the business.Thank you for listening and please take a moment to subscribe, rate, and review our show on your favorite app.To get a hold of us here at Ke
True Role of Construction Software with Chandler Brooks
For an electrical contractor, choosing the right software can be daunting. Chandler Brooks, Director of Industry Partnerships & Alliances at Procore Technologies, joins me during the NECA tradeshow to share his perspective on what an EC should consider when thinking about which software to implement in their business.What I like about our conversation is how much Chandler thinks about the huma
Business Education for Electrical Contractors with Pete Mastrorocco
In this episode, Pete Mastrorocco, Sr. Vice President, Education, Events & Partnerships at the National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA) discusses the valuable insights and lessons learned through industry associations, which can be especially beneficial for small to medium electrical contractors. Pete and I explore the ways NECA supports its members.Thank you for listening and please
Conventions, Innovation, and Food with Tauhira Ali
This episode is a departure in format. Tauhira Ali, Executive Director of Industry Innovation at NECA, (National Electrical Contractors Association) and I sat down during the 2023 NECA Convention on the show floor to share ideas about conventions, innovation, podcasting, and food. Thank you for listening and please take a moment to subscribe, rate, and review our show on your favorite app.To get a
Prefab and Company Culture with Todd Grossweiler
Prefab is a topic so thoroughly discussed over the last 10 years that many start to tune it out when mentioned. After talking with Todd Grossweiler, Executive Vice President at Allison Smith Company about their approach to prefab, I wonder if we should start thinking of prefab not just as another process to complete projects, but as a vehicle to improve company culture.To build a great prefab proc
EC & Vendor Relationships With David Peterson, ERMCO President & COO
Without materials, a contractor can’t do their job. Material management goes beyond simply ordering and receiving the material. A well-thought-out material strategy and plan can go a long way in helping a contractor get their projects done efficiently and can also help the bottom line.At the 2023 NECA (National Electrical Contractors Association) Convention I had the privilege to speak with David
Biodegradable Lighting with Benjamin Rapkin
When I heard the words, “biodegradable lighting fixtures,” my curiosity was piqued. To learn more about this, I turned to Benjamin Rapkin, General Manager at Lightly. In this episode of Keepin’ The Lights On, I learn about the current state of sustainable building materials. We discuss what lighting customers, designers, and manufacturers can do to move the needle to more sustainable products. Las
Day In The Life: Association Lobbyist with Marco Giamberardino
Most associations have an internal group that focuses on political advocacy. To learn a bit more about this side of the National Electrical Contractor Association, I asked Marco Giamberardino, NECA Senior Vice President of Government and Public Affairs, if he would spend a few minutes educating us on how he spends his days as an association lobbyist.I met Marco at the NECA convention, so you will
Embracing Messy Cities
Many US cities and towns are beginning to show their age, with depopulation, aging infrastructure, and lost industry. In addition, many are looking for ways to make our communities more people-centric where walking and biking are more viable options. Overcoming these challenges and creating more people-centric communities is a big challenge and I’ve invited someone who’s been working on this probl
The TeleComm Industry Wants You! Guest: Jennifer Roback
The information, technology, and communications world hasn’t been spared the labor shortage that many trades are facing today. There is a growing talent gap and in this episode, Jennifer Roback, Director Global Systems Engineer at Commscope, shares her insight into this growing challenge.We’ll learn what industry veterans can do to help recruit and mentor the new generation of talent. In addition,
What's Certification Got to Do With ICT? With Chuck Bowser, RCDD Tech
In this episode, we are going to talk about the importance of choosing the most qualified technician for your next installation. It goes beyond simply pulling cable.This episode's guest is RCDD Tech, Chuck Bowser. RCDD stands for (Registered Communications Distribution Designer). Chuck entered the Information and Communications Technology or ICT industry in 1982. Throughout his career, Chuck striv
Controlling Higher-Ed Lighting w Bill Marushak
In this episode, Bill Marushak and I talk about some of the challenges facing higher-ed facility teams in controlling and managing their lighting and then share a few ideas on ways they can think through the problem to come up with the best solutions.Bill Marushak is currently a Strategic End-User Account Manager at Lutron Electronics. Bill is the architect of the Lutron Campus-Wide Solutions Prog
Sustainability That Works with Susan Rochford
We’re going to be discussing Legrand’s journey to create a more sustainable business. Susan Rochford, Vice President, Energy Efficiency, Sustainability & Public Policy at Legrand North America and Central America brings so much history and knowledge to this topic that I learned new ways of thinking about sustainability and how an organization can get there.I learned about the great resources b
State of AI with Rudy Agovic
In this episode, I speak with Rudy Agovic, PhD Chief Analytics Officer at Clarity Insights and we discuss the myths or challenges AI faces as companies think about implementing it. F From understanding what AI is and isn’t, the struggle with collecting data in silos, and challenges companies have in implementing AI. In addition, we’ll look at an example of how AI can facilitate building a new refi
Flying in the Face of Fear with Colonel Kim Campbell, USAF, Ret.
Kim “KC” Campbell served in the Air Force for 24 years as a fighter pilot and senior military leader. She has flown 1,800 hours in the A-10 Warthog, including more than 100 combat missions protecting troops on the ground in both Iraq and Afghanistan. In 2003, Kim was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross for Heroism after successfully recovering her battle-damaged airplane after an intense close
Smarter Water Infrastructure with Jose Rivera and Steve March
Municipalities are faced with many challenges as they plan for the future of their water, wastewater facilities. Aging infrastructure, technology advancements, data management, cybersecurity, and automation is a small list of concerns facing operators.In this panel discussion we feature the future of water wastewater from the perspective of industry leadership, integrators, and manufacturers.Topic
Building a Better Network with Joe Reele
Have you ever wondered why we aren’t living in the world of the Jetsons or Star Trek, or even in a world where the traffic lights are smart and work consistently? In today’s show, I speak with Joe Reele, Vice President Solution Architects at Schneider Electric. Joe has more than 22 years of experience in strategic planning, business development, operations management, and system engineering strate
State of Prefab with Lonnie Cumpton
In this episode, I’m speaking with LONNIE CUMPTON, Senior Director of Customer Success and Product Strategy at AEC Inspire. Lonnie has over 30 years in the design and building industry. Starting at the early stages of CAD design, then into BIM and Revit. He’s held positions in construction firms, associations, and now in consulting/services. In this episode we’re going to discuss why construction
Small Contractor Tech Stack with Jared Christman
For smaller electrical contractors and communication integrators, selecting the right technology to run their jobs and business can be an overwhelming obstacle. I spend a few minutes with Jared Christman, Director of Construction Technology at ELECTRI International, the Research and Development branch of the National Electrical Contractors Association or NECA. Jared shares insights and lessons lea
Show Trailer-Bring Your Kid to Work Edition
You can reach your host at podcast@graybar.comFor show episodes and to subscribe to our show newsletter, please go to graybar.com/podcastPodcasts mentioned in the show:Construction DorksBridging the GapElectrical Current by IECNECA Innovation OverloadMDM PodcastBroadband BunchTalking Industrial Automation
Adapting To Crisis with Steve Guarracino
The disruption of Covid required everyone to adapt to crisis. During this episode, Steve Guarracino LC, IESNA, Source Market Specialist at Cooper Lighting’s Training and Development Center, shares with me how he and his team at The Source adapted to the changes required to survive and thrive during the pandemic years. He shares the struggles and successes experienced over the past 2.5 years. Thank
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