What happens when a veteran journeyman lineman, used to restoring power across the country, finds himself sitting in the dark for 17 days? In this episode of PowerGridTalks, host Thomas Williamson sits down with Brian Kannada, a lineman with over 25 years of experience, to discuss the devastating 2026 ice storm that paralyzed North Mississippi.

Brian provides a rare, dual perspective—seeing the crisis both as a frustrated customer in "survival mode" and as an industry expert who knows exactly what it takes to get the lights back on. We dive deep into the systemic flaws exposed by this event, from manpower shortages and aging infrastructure to the differences between modern storm response and the historic freeze of 1994.

In this episode, we discuss:

• The Manpower Gap: Why were there only three crews working 30-mile circuits when hundreds were needed?

• Proactive vs. Reactive Logistics: The failure to utilize available brokers and staging resources despite a 10-day weather warning.

• Infrastructure Reality: How an inch of ice turns old poles into a "domino effect" of system failure.

• The Call for Transparency: Why utility cooperatives need better communication, social media engagement, and public accountability.

• Lessons for the Future: How the industry can bridge the gap between "daylight and dark" to ensure this never happens again.

Whether you are in the electric utility industry, a lineman, or a customer who has felt the impact of a grid failure, this conversation is a must-listen. It's time to move past "decent" and start planning for the next big one.

(0:56) - Home During the Storm

(4:33) - Lineman Career Background

(7:14) -1994 vs Today

(11:23) - Mutual Aid Limits

(18:47) - Old Poles and Ice Load

(23:38) - Hurricane Michael Lessons

(30:40) - Demanding Transparency

(38:01) - Regional Coordination Plans

(40:05) - Why Ice Storms Are Brutal 

 

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#PowerGridTalks #LinemanLife #UtilityRestoration #GridReliability #2026IceStorm #Lineman #PowerOutage #StormResponse #ElectricalGrid #Infrastructure

Get an inside look at the real culture of linework in this episode of PowerGridTalks with host Thomas Williamson and special guest Kevin Robinson, founder of Linemen Bullshit. This conversation dives deep into the life of a lineman, from the jobsite to the online community, covering the grit, humor, brotherhood, and realities of working in the electrical utility industry.

Kevin shares how Linemen Bullshit became one of the most recognizable platforms in the trade, giving voice to linemen across the country. Together, we talk about what it really takes to succeed in linework, the importance of safety, lessons learned in the field, and how social media is shaping the next generation of linemen.

Whether you're a current lineman, apprentice, groundman, or someone considering line school, this episode delivers real-world insight into the electric utility industry, power line work, and the mindset required to thrive in this demanding career.

⚡ In this episode, you'll learn:

• The truth about life as a lineman
• How Linemen Bullshit built a massive following
• The importance of safety and accountability in the trade
• What new linemen need to know before entering the industry
• The brotherhood and culture behind keeping the power on

If you're serious about becoming a lineman or advancing your career in the utility industry, this is an episode you don't want to miss.

(2:06) - Kevin's Trade Origins

(8:03) - Birth of Lineman Bullshit

(18:10) - Leadership Everyone's Watching

(24:06) - Safety Theater and Liability

(30:17) - Job Briefings

(33:23) - Near Miss Reporting Culture

(38:46) - Production vs Safety Reality

(44:48) - Presence Over Position

(56:57) - Truthful Incident Learning

(1:00:32) - Why Safety Gets Weaponized

(1:06:06) - Training Leaders and Egos

(1:10:40) - Advice for Apprentices

🔗 Learn more and listen to more episodes: https://powergridtalks.com

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#lineman #linework #powergrid #electricutility #trades #bluecollar #apprenticeship #lineschool #powerlineman #utilities

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

 

What does it take to bring the reality of the trade to the big screen? In this episode of PowerGrid alks, host Thomas Williamson sits down with Chad Dubea, an industry veteran whose career spans decades, from his early days with Red Simpson to building multiple successful line companies and helping develop the Hollywood film 'Life on the Line' starring John Travolta.

Chad isn't just a businessman; he is the founder of the Fallen Linemen Organization, a non-profit dedicated to honoring the men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice and supporting the families they left behind. We go behind the scenes to explore the raw pressures of owning a contractor company, the changing culture of the trade, and why safety must be rooted in brotherhood rather than just a rulebook.

In this episode, we discuss:

• The Hollywood Journey: Behind the scenes of 'Life on the Line' and the mission to show the world what the trade really takes.

• The Fallen Linemen Organization: The inspiration behind the non-profit and how the industry can better support its own.

• Industry Evolution: From the "wild west" days of Red Simpson to modern contractor culture.

• Leadership & Trust: Why the foundation of every successful crew is built on character and looking out for the person next to you.

• The Mental Toll: Discussing the real pressures of the job and the responsibility that comes with the trade.

Whether you're a journeyman with 30 years in the trade, an apprentice just starting your journey, or an industry executive, this conversation is a tribute to the people who keep the lights on.

(1:42) - Roots With Red Simpson

(4:10) - Mentors And Lessons

(9:08) - Safety Versus Production

(13:45) - Starting T&D

(18:27) - Culture And Caring

(24:44) - Making A Lineman Movie

(29:35) - Travolta And Public Impact

(32:06) - Ice Storm Tragedy

(37:11) - Memorial Vision Begins

(38:49) - High Voltage Rose Story

(42:56) - Safety And Gut Checks

(46:57) - Future Of The Trade

(50:07) - Culture, Mental Health, Drugs

(53:32) - Rapid Fire Round

(1:01:21) - Legacy Unity And Farewell

Support the Cause: Learn more about the Fallen Linemen Organization and how you can help at: https://fallenlinemen.org

Connect with Power Grid Talks:

• Website: https://powergridtalks.com

• Follow us for more stories from the bucket trucks to the boardrooms!

In this episode of PowerGridTalks, host Thomas Williamson travels to Leesburg, Florida, to sit down with Andy Price. As the founder of the International Lineman's Museum and the Lineman Hall of Fame, Andy has dedicated his life to preserving what he calls "the greatest story never told". The electric utility industry was built on the grit and innovation of early pioneers who often had to forge their own tools just to get the job done. We go behind the scenes to explore rare artifacts, including the original patent for curved hand rubber gloves and unique "Coke bottle" glass insulators used during wartime. In this episode, we discuss:

• The History of Linework: How the trade evolved from the late 1800s to the modern power grid.
• The Lineman Hall of Fame: The emotional stories behind inducting industry icons and the criteria for being recognized.
• Safety Evolution: A look at the transition from "cowboy mentality" to the life-saving fall restraint devices and battery-powered tools used today.
• The Fallen Lineman Organization: How the new Florida location honors those who made the ultimate sacrifice on the line.
• The Future of the Museum: Andy's vision for the 18,500-square-foot expansion at Lineman Ranch and how the community can get involved.

Whether you are a journeyman lineman, an apprentice just starting at line school, or a utility executive, this episode is a deep dive into the heritage that keeps the power flowing.

(1:27) - How the Museum Began

(4:47) - Moving to Florida Vision

(9:49) - Must See Artifacts

(15:32) - Hall of Fame Origins

(21:39) - Induction Process

(24:10) - Spotting Future Legends

(26:28) - Honoring Fallen Linemen

(33:11) - Support The Museum

Visit the Museum:

Learn more about the International Lineman's Museum and nominate someone for the Hall of Fame at: https://linemanmuseum.org.

Connect with PowerGridTalks:

Website: https://powergridtalks.com

Follow us for more stories from the bucket trucks to the boardrooms!

#Lineman #PowerGrid #UtilityWork #LinemanLife #ApprenticeLineman #ElectricalGrid #History #InternationalLinemanMuseum #PowerGridTalks #ThomasWilliamson #LinemanHallOfFame

What is line school really like—and what does it take to make it to the other side?

In this episode of PowerGridTalks, host Thomas Williamson sits down with NALTC students for an honest, boots-on-the-ground conversation about the realities of line school. From the physical grind and mental pressure to the growth, pride, and brotherhood that form along the way, these future linemen share what the journey truly demands.

This episode pulls back the curtain on the transformation that happens between day one and graduation, and why line school is about far more than climbing poles. It's about discipline, accountability, safety mindset, teamwork, and preparing for a career where decisions matter and consequences are real.

⚡ In this episode, you'll hear about:

• What surprised students most about line school

• The mental and physical challenges of training

• How safety culture is built early

• Brotherhood, teamwork, and earning respect

• Lessons learned before stepping onto a real job site

• What future apprentices should know before enrolling

Whether you're considering line school, currently enrolled, or already working in the trade, this episode offers real insight into how linemen are built—not just trained.

(01:08) - Meet the Students

(08:26)- First Impressions and Challenges

(10:06) - Training and Real-World Experience

(14:15) - Overcoming Fears and Building Trust

(19:19) - Favorite Parts and Key Lessons

(22:39) - Impactful Instructors and Lessons Learned

(27:36) - Preparing for Graduation and Job Placement

(32:17) - Advice for Future Students

(34:04) - Reflecting on the Journey and Future Challenges

🎧 PowerGridTalks shares real conversations from the classroom, the yard, and the job site—spotlighting the people shaping the future of the electrical industry.

👉 Listen to the full episode & explore more: https://powergridtalks.com
👉 Subscribe for more stories from the line trade
👍 Like, comment, and share to support future linemen
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What does it really take to prepare linemen for the realities of the trade—not just the climb, but the career?

In this episode of PowerGridTalks, host Thomas Williamson sits down at the North American  Lineman Training Center (NALTC) with Instructor Trey White and Director of Outside Training Tim Rhodes for a candid conversation about training, culture, and the future of linework.

This episode goes beyond line school basics to explore how today's linemen are being developed for the real-world demands of the job—from work ethic and accountability to safety mindset, mentorship, and brotherhood. Trey and Tim share what separates successful apprentices from those who struggle, and why modern training must focus on character, decision-making, and culture, not just technical skill.

⚡ In this episode, you'll learn:

• What utilities and contractors expect from new linemen

• Why training today has to go beyond climbing and rigging

• The role of culture, mentorship, and leadership in linework

• How safety mindset starts long before the job site

• Preparing apprentices for pressure, responsibility, and real consequences

• What the next generation of linemen needs to succeed

Whether you're an apprentice, journeyman, instructor, utility leader, or safety professional, this episode offers real insight into how strong training builds safer crews and stronger careers.

(1:04) - Meet the Instructors: Trey White and Tim Rhodes

(1:31) - Journey into the Lineman Trade

(5:32) - Teaching Philosophy and Impact

(11:14) - Student Experience and Program Structure

(40:56) - Setting Yourself Apart in Line Work

(41:30) - Understanding the Realities of Line Work

(43:00) - Preparing NALTC Graduates for Success

(51:01) - The Importance of Physical and Mental Preparedness

🎧 PowerGridTalks brings real conversations from the yard, the classroom, and the job site—spotlighting the people shaping the future of the electrical industry.

👉 Subscribe for more conversations from the line trade
👍 Like, comment, and share to support linemen and training programs
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In this episode of PowerGridTalks, host Thomas Williamson sits down with Jake Southern for an honest conversation about the issues in the line trade that few openly discuss: addiction, mental health struggles, isolation, and asking for help.

Jake shares his personal journey through the apprenticeship, the pressures of the job, and how the culture of toughness in the electrical industry can sometimes prevent linemen from speaking up when they're struggling. This episode goes beyond safety rules and job briefings to address the human side of linework, where mental health is just as critical as physical safety.

⚡ In this episode, we discuss:

• Addiction and mental health challenges in the line trade

• The silent pressures faced by apprentices and journeymen

• Why "just tough it out" can be dangerous

• Brotherhood, accountability, and recovery

• How to recognize warning signs and support fellow linemen

• Changing the culture around mental health in the electrical industry

This episode is for linemen, apprentices, utility workers, contractors, safety professionals, and families who want to see a stronger, healthier trade, where going home safe means physically and mentally.

🎧 PowerGridTalks delivers real conversations from the bucket trucks to the boardrooms, sharing the stories that strengthen our people and the grid.

👉 Subscribe for more real stories from the line trade
👍 Leave a review to help this message reach more workers who need it

🔗 Listen & learn more: https://powergridtalks.com

 

(00:56) Jake's Journey into the Industry

(03:22) Struggles with Addiction and Mental Health

(06:11) Life on the Road and Personal Challenges

(10:05) Turning Points and Seeking Help

(18:05) Recovery and Redemption 1

(22:19) Mental Health and Addiction Struggles

(27:21) Healthy Habits and Personal Growth

(31:24) Final Thoughts and Contact Information

In this episode of PowerGridTalks, host Thomas Williamson is joined by Zach Spicer, founder of Line Brothers Keeper, to talk about what happens after the job changes everything—and how the lineman brotherhood steps up when one of our own is hurt.

Zach shares the mission behind Line Brothers Keeper and why support, connection, and community matter just as much as safety rules when linemen face life-altering injuries. This conversation goes beyond the bucket trucks and job sites, focusing on mental health, recovery, family support, and the unspoken bonds that hold the trade together.

⚡ In this episode, we cover:

• The story behind Line Brothers Keeper

• How injured linemen and families are supported after accidents

• Why brotherhood matters beyond the job site

• Mental health, recovery, and life after the incident

• The responsibility linemen have to take care of each other

• How the electrical industry can do better for its people

If you're a lineman, apprentice, utility worker, contractor, safety professional, or family member, this episode is a reminder that no one stands alone in this trade.

🎧 PowerGridTalks brings real conversations from the bucket trucks to the boardrooms—spotlighting the people who keep the grid strong and the brotherhood alive.

👉 Subscribe for more real stories from the electrical industry
👍 Like, comment, and share to support the lineman community

🔗 Learn more: https://powergridtalks.com

In this episode of PowerGridTalks, host Thomas Williamson sits down with Brent Jeffries of Bierer Meters / ECOS for a powerful conversation about why true electrical safety goes far beyond rules, checklists, and compliance.

Brent shares how safety in the electrical industry must evolve from a policy-driven mindset into a people-first culture of trust, accountability, and leadership. Drawing from real-world field experience, innovation in safety tools, and lessons learned across the utility and contractor space, this episode challenges how safety is traditionally taught, enforced, and measured.

⚡ In this episode, we cover:

• Why compliance alone does NOT keep workers safe

• How safety culture is built—not mandated

• The role of leadership, trust, and communication in preventing incidents

• Innovation in electrical safety tools and training

• Bridging the gap between safety programs and field reality

• What utilities, contractors, and linemen can do TODAY to reduce risk

Whether you're a lineman, foreman, safety professional, utility leader, or apprentice, this conversation will reshape how you think about electrical safety, hazard awareness, and workforce responsibility.

🎧 PowerGridTalks brings real conversations from the bucket trucks to the boardrooms—featuring the people who keep the grid strong and the lights on.

👉 Subscribe for more episodes on lineman life, utility leadership, safety culture, training, and the future of the power grid.
👍 Like, comment, and share this episode with someone who works in the electrical industry.

🔗 Learn more: https://powergridtalks.com

In this episode of PowerGridTalks, host Thomas Williamson sits down with Chad Schimpf of Ameren Illinois to break down the job briefing.

Chad shares how Ameren is transforming job briefings from a reactive, paperwork-driven task into a proactive safety culture tool that empowers crews, builds better habits, and strengthens communication from apprentices to seasoned linemen.

We dive into:
⚡ How Ameren redesigned its job briefing process
⚡ Why scoring job briefings leads to better conversations and safer crews
⚡ The role of EEI, the Energy Wheel, and hazard recognition
⚡ How Chad's personal electrical contact incident fuels his passion for safety
⚡ The power of coaching, mentorship, and involving apprentices early
⚡ Inside the International Lineman's Rodeo & Safety Conference
⚡ Why the future of safety depends on culture—not compliance

If you're a lineman, foreman, safety professional, or anyone working in the electric utility industry, this conversation will change how you view job briefings and the impact they can have on your crew.

👉 Want to connect with Chad about job briefings or the Lineman's Rodeo safety conference?
Reach out: cschi@ameren.com

🔗 More PowerGridTalks episodes: https://powergridtalks.com
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