Robin and Paige Roberts with Central Power Systems and Services

Robin and Paige Roberts from Central Power Systems and Services discussed their company's growth and innovations at Power Gen Dallas. Central Power, which Robin acquired 10 years ago, has grown from a $100 million to a projected $1 billion company by 2025. They specialize in mid-sized natural gas generators for oil fields, producing hundreds annually. The company is vertically integrated, handling manufacturing and services, a rarity in the industry. Paige highlighted their recent hiring of 100 new employees, emphasizing the importance of company culture. They also discussed the booming data center market and the challenges of distributed energy.

Action Items

• [ ] Reach out to Robin Roberts on Facebook at robinrobertsracing.com.
• [ ] Connect with Paige Roberts on LinkedIn or visit the company website at Cpower.com.

Outline

Introduction and Welcome

• Scott MacKenzie introduces the podcast and its focus on industrial innovations and professionals.
• The podcast is described as data-driven and celebrates industry professionals worldwide.
• The event, Power Gen Dallas, is highlighted as a gathering of problem solvers and professionals.
• Scott MacKenzie introduces the guests, Robin and Paige Roberts from Central Power Systems and Services.

Overview of Central Power Systems and Services

• Robin Roberts explains the company's presence at the conference and the equipment on display.
• The equipment is described as a mid-sized generator producing 400 KW natural gas, designed for oil fields.
• The company is vertically integrated, handling manufacturing and services, which is unusual in the industry.
• Robin provides a brief history of the company, including its growth and future projections.

Background of Robin and Paige Roberts

• Robin Roberts shares his 32-year industry experience, starting in distribution and now leading a $100 million company.
• The company is projected to break a billion dollars by 2025.
• Paige Roberts recounts her journey of persistently seeking a job at the company, eventually joining after proving her determination.
• Paige's role in recruiting and hiring is highlighted, with the company adding 100 new headcounts in the last four months.

Challenges in Hiring and Company Culture

• Scott MacKenzie and Paige discuss the challenges of finding key individuals for business expansion.
• Paige emphasizes the importance of company culture in attracting talent.
• The company's CEO and leadership team have a hands-on background, which resonates with potential employees.
• Robin explains the innovative approach of integrating recruiting under the marketing team to enhance brand awareness.

Expansion into Data Centers and Market Demand

• Robin discusses the company's expansion into the data center market, providing backup power solutions.
• The company has been in the data center market for 20 years, now moving from service provision to manufacturing.
• The demand for data center power is growing, driven by the increasing need for backup power.
• Robin highlights the company's presence in various locations, including major cities like Atlanta, Grand Rapids, and Phoenix.

Future Projections and Market Trends

• Paige shares her optimistic view on the future growth of the power generation industry.
• The reliance on electricity is increasing, driven by advancements like EV cars and smart homes.
• The need for backup power is emphasized due to the limitations of the existing grid.
• Scott MacKenzie and Robin discuss the challenges of infrastructure and the potential for rolling blackouts.

Distributed Energy and Market Opportunities

• Scott MacKenzie inquires about the company's involvement in distributed energy solutions.
• Robin explains that the company focuses on backup power generation in oil fields and remote sites.
• The company does not extensively engage in distributed energy for manufacturing centers or warehousing.
• The conversation touches on the company's ability to adapt to new opportunities and market demands.

Financial Management and Expansion

• Robin shares the financial strategy of the company, including borrowing from the bank and managing cash flow.
• The company has built strong relationships with customers and investors, which support its growth.
• Robin emphasizes the importance of focusing on what the company can be great at, rather than spreading resources thinly.
• The company has turned down certain projects to maintain a high standard of excellence.

Personal Reflections and Company Values

• Robin reflects on the fun and excitement of running the company, despite initial thoughts of retirement.
• The company's success is attributed to the growth and development of its people and teams.
• Paige shares her favorite quote about winning, highlighting the joy of achieving success.
• The conversation ends with contact information for Robin and Paige, encouraging listeners to reach out.

Closing Remarks and Call to Action

• Scott MacKenzie thanks Robin and Paige for the conversation and highlights the importance of connecting with industry professionals.
• The podcast is promoted as a platform for amplifying messages and celebrating industrial innovations.
• Listeners are encouraged to reach out to Robin and Paige through the provided contact information.
• The episode concludes with a call to action for listeners to engage with the podcast and its guests.