The conversation highlights the importance of the Barcelona Cybersecurity Congress from November 3-5, 2023, and the need for industry professionals to enhance their cybersecurity measures. Scott Mackenzie from Industrial Talk emphasizes the significance of storytelling and marketing strategies for industrial companies, urging them to leverage platforms like Industrial Talk for content amplification. Trevor Perrott from Census Technologies discusses their aerial intelligence solutions for power lines, emphasizing the use of lidar sensors and AI to improve efficiency and safety. The discussion also touches on the challenges of vegetation management, the impact of wildfires on insurance rates, and the potential for data-driven risk mitigation in the utility sector.

Outline

Barcelona Cybersecurity Congress Announcement

• Scott introduces the Barcelona Cybersecurity Congress, emphasizing its importance for cybersecurity professionals.
• The event is scheduled for November 3-5 in Barcelona, with Speaker 1 planning to attend and broadcast.
• Scott highlights the opportunity to network with top cybersecurity professionals from around the world.
• Contact information and details about the event are available on Industrial Talk.

Introduction to Industrial Talk Podcast

• Scott thanks listeners for their support and celebrates industry professionals solving daily problems.
• Scott shares personal experiences as a lineman, drawing parallels to modern aerial intelligence technology.
• The conversation sets the stage for discussing aerial intelligence and its impact on the industry.

Importance of Storytelling in Industry

• Scott emphasizes the necessity of telling one's story consistently and authentically.
• The conversation highlights the need for a strategic approach to storytelling, involving human interaction rather than AI-generated content.
• Scott encourages companies to leverage platforms like Industrial Talk for marketing and content generation.
• The discussion includes the importance of amplifying messages and the challenges of maintaining a strong social presence.

Introduction of Trevor and Census Technologies

• Scott introduces Trevor from Census Technologies, focusing on aerial intelligence for power lines.
• Trevor shares his background, including his fascination with aviation and robotics.
• Census Technologies uses drones to collect high-resolution data for asset intelligence, including power lines, roads, and beaches.
• The conversation touches on the importance of data-driven decision-making in the industry.

Challenges in the Power Line Industry

• Scott and Trevor discuss the challenges of finding and retaining linemen in the industry.
• Trevor explains the use of lidar sensors and AI to create digital twins of power lines and assess vegetation encroachment.
• The conversation highlights the need for customized software solutions to meet the specific needs of different utility companies.
• Trevor shares insights into the economic impact of wildfires and the role of data in mitigating risks.

Innovations in Asset Intelligence

• Trevor discusses the potential for using drone data to identify and address wildfire risks, potentially reducing insurance costs for utilities.
• The conversation explores the future of asset intelligence, including the integration of satellite data and drone data.
• Trevor emphasizes the importance of continuous innovation and the potential for new use cases in the industry.
• The discussion touches on the challenges of maintaining accurate GIS data and the role of human validation in the process.

Future of Asset Intelligence and Grid Modernization

• Trevor shares his vision for the future of asset intelligence, including the potential for comprehensive data collection and analysis.
• The conversation highlights the importance of grid modernization and the role of data in driving efficiency and reducing costs.
• Trevor discusses the potential for using drone data to address a wide range of industry challenges, from vegetation management to infrastructure maintenance.
• The discussion concludes with a focus on the importance of collaboration and innovation in driving industry success.

Scott Mackenzie interviews Maura Nespoli, VP of Sales and Renewable and Sustainable Solutions at Prysmian, a leading cable industry company. Maura discusses Prisma's role in the energy transition, focusing on solar and wind farm solutions. She highlights the company's innovative technologies, such as the eatery X technology, which can reduce energy losses by 30% and CO2 emissions by 25%. Maura emphasizes the importance of digitalization in data centers and the need for sustainable practices in cable manufacturing. She also notes the significant demand for cables in the US, particularly in the data center market, and the challenges of meeting this demand while maintaining efficiency and sustainability.

Action Items

• [ ] @Scott MacKenzie – Connect with Maura on LinkedIn to learn more about Prysmian's sustainable cable solutions.
• [ ] Explore opportunities to leverage existing infrastructure and optimize efficiency rather than just building new transmission lines.

Outline

Introduction and Welcome to Industrial Talk Podcast

• Scott MacKenzie welcomes listeners to the Industrial Talk Podcast, emphasizing the importance of industry professionals and their contributions.
• Scott mentions the sponsorship by Siemens and encourages listeners to visit siemens.com for more information.
• The podcast is broadcasting live from Distribute Tech in Dallas, Texas, where industry professionals gather to discuss utilities, transmission, and distribution.

Introduction of Maura Nespoli and Her Role

• Scott introduces Maura Nespoli, who is in the hot seat for the interview.
• Maura confirms her attendance at the conference and mentions she is from Kentucky, not Milan.
• Scott and Maura discuss their experiences with bourbon, with Maura expressing her uncertainty about it.
• Maura provides a brief background about her company, Prysmian, which is leading the cable industry.

Maura's Background and Role at Prysmian

• Maura shares that she is from Italy and has been working in the cable industry for seven years.
• She explains her role as VP of Sales and Renewable and Sustainable Solutions at Prysmian.
• Maura elaborates on the importance of the cable industry in the energy transition, focusing on solar and wind farm solutions.
• She discusses the company's focus on innovation, digitalization, and sustainability, including reducing CO2 emissions and promoting recyclability.

Digitalization and Innovation in the Cable Industry

• Maura explains how digitalization plays a key role in the data center market, which is growing rapidly.
• She describes the combination of large cables needed in data centers and those related to digitalization.
• Scott and Maura discuss the various types of cables Prysmian deals with, including transmission, distribution, and specialty cables.
• Maura highlights the importance of innovation in keeping up with the fast-paced market and the company's efforts to stay ahead.

Sustainability and Innovation in Cable Manufacturing

• Maura discusses the company's approach to sustainability, including reducing CO2 emissions and promoting recyclability.
• She explains the role of R&D in building cables that are more sustainable and efficient.
• Maura introduces the company's eatery X technology, which can increase ampacity by 25% and reduce energy losses by 30%.
• She emphasizes the combination of technology and raw materials to achieve significant reductions in energy losses and CO2 emissions.

Challenges and Opportunities in the Cable Industry

• Scott and Maura discuss the challenges of meeting the growing demand for cables, especially in the data center market.
• Maura mentions the US Energy Department's requirement for 47,000 miles of new transmission lines to meet energy demand.
• They compare the demand in the US with that in Europe, noting the significant difference in the data center market.
• Maura highlights the importance of innovation in leveraging existing infrastructure and meeting the growing demand for cables.

Future of the Cable Industry and Contact Information

• Scott asks Maura about the future of the cable industry and the role of innovation in meeting the growing demand.
• Maura emphasizes the need for innovation and the potential to work with existing infrastructure to meet the demand.
• Scott inquires about the best way to contact Maura, and she mentions her presence on LinkedIn.
• Scott concludes the interview by highlighting Maura's impressive background and encouraging listeners to connect with her on LinkedIn.

Scott MacKenzie from Industrial Talk discusses the Industrial Renaissance e-book and a personalized business valuation program available on their website. At Power Gen in Dallas, Texas, he interviews Nuraddin Hajiyev from Technica80, a company that manufactures equipment for transformer manufacturing plants. Technica80 specializes in high-voltage transformers, providing customized tools like lifters and mandrels. Hajiyev highlights the company's founder's expertise and their international clientele, particularly in the U.S. due to American customers' appreciation for quality. Technica80 aims to expand in the U.S. market, leveraging their unique, high-quality products.

Action Items

• [ ] @Scott MacKenzie – Provide Nuraddin Hajiyev's contact information on the Industrial Talk website.
• [ ] Connect with Nuraddin Hajiyev on LinkedIn.

Outline

Introduction to Industrial Talk and Resources

• Scott MacKenzie introduces Industrial Talk, emphasizing its purpose to help industrial professionals succeed.
• He highlights two key resources: an e-book titled “Industrial Renaissance” and a personalized business valuation program.
• The e-book focuses on leaders' solutions and strategies, while the valuation program helps align solutions with customer challenges.
• Scott encourages listeners to visit Industrial Talk to download the e-book and utilize the valuation program.

Welcome to the Industrial Talk Podcast

• Scott MacKenzie welcomes listeners to the podcast, celebrating industry professionals and their contributions.
• The podcast is broadcasting live from Power Gen in Dallas, Texas, showcasing the event's significance.
• Scott mentions the presence of a gentleman from Italy, Dean Nora, and discusses the distribution of tech at the conference.

Introduction of Nuraddin Hajiyev

• Scott MacKenzie asks Nuraddin Hajiyev to introduce himself and his background.
• Nuraddin shares his origins from Azerbaijan, his master's degree in Italy, and his current role at Technica 80.
• Technica 80 specializes in equipment for transformer manufacturing plants, focusing on high-voltage transformers.
• Nuraddin explains that Technica 80 does not manufacture transformers but provides equipment for those who do.

Technica 80's Equipment and Customization

• Nuraddin describes the equipment Technica 80 provides, such as lifters for coils, special cable conductors, and mandrels.
• He emphasizes that all equipment is personalized and unique, tailored to the specific dimensions and needs of transformer manufacturers.
• Technica 80's founder, Mr. Renzo Pamfilo, has extensive experience and a unique approach to troubleshooting.
• American customers appreciate Technica 80's high-quality products and are easy to work with.

International Presence and Future Goals

• Scott MacKenzie inquires about Technica 80's international presence and future goals.
• Nuraddin confirms that Technica 80 has been international for over 30 years, working with customers worldwide.
• In 2024, Technica 80 focused on exploring the US market, aiming to find American customers and expand their business.
• Nuraddin highlights the professionalism and open-mindedness of American transformer producers, making them easy to work with.

Expansion Plans and Challenges

• Scott asks about Technica 80's expansion plans, including the possibility of opening a shop in the US.
• Nuraddin mentions their base in New York City, supported by the Italian trading agency, for meeting customers in person.
• Technica 80 aims to provide high-quality products at competitive prices to American customers.
• Nuraddin shows a brochure with pictures of a mandrel and Mr. Renzo Pamfilo, emphasizing the company's capabilities and history.

Market Demand and Adaptation

• Scott discusses the increasing demand for power and electricity and how Technica 80 adapts to market changes.
• Nuraddin acknowledges the growing demand and the need for companies like Technica 80 to prepare for future booms.
• Power Gen 2050 is highlighted as a significant event, with a focus on electricity-based industries.
• Technica 80's equipment is essential for meeting the growing demand for transformers.

Contact Information and Conclusion

• Scott asks how listeners can contact Technica 80 for more information.
• Nuraddin suggests reaching out via email or LinkedIn, providing his contact details.
• Scott thanks Nuraddin for the opportunity to discuss Technica 80 and its capabilities.
• The podcast concludes with Scott encouraging listeners to explore Industrial Talk's resources and stay tuned for future conversations.

Scott MacKenzie introduced his new eBook, “Today's Industrial Renaissance,” highlighting challenges and strategies for industrial professionals. The podcast featured Brandon Young, President and CEO of Young Management and Consulting (YMC), discussing his company's growth, international presence, and innovative solutions in the utility sector. YMC focuses on capital projects, data analytics, and project management, employing 120 individuals across the US, UAE, and Dubai. Young emphasized the importance of technology, AI, and safety in the industry, noting YMC's zero-incident record. He also discussed recruitment strategies and the future of work in the utility industry.

Action Items

• [ ] Reach out to Brandon Young to discuss potential collaboration opportunities.
• [ ] Explore the use of technology and data analytics solutions offered by YMC to improve reliability and efficiency of utility operations.
• [ ] Consider implementing a safety-first culture and leveraging technology to enhance field crew productivity and safety.

Outline

Introduction of Scott MacKenzie's eBook

• Scott MacKenzie introduces his new eBook titled “Today's Industrial Renaissance,” which he wrote after 3000 conversations with industrial leaders.
• The book addresses challenges, pain points, strategies, and tools for the industrial sector.
• Scott encourages listeners to download the eBook from industrialtalk.com, emphasizing that he won't spam them.
• The eBook is designed to help industrial professionals succeed without unnecessary complications.

Welcome to the Industrial Talk Podcast

• Scott MacKenzie welcomes listeners to the number one industrial-related podcast, celebrating industrial professionals who are bold, brave, and innovative.
• Scott mentions the support from Siemens Smart Infrastructure and Grid Software, encouraging listeners to visit siemens.com for more information.
• The podcast is broadcasting live from Distribute Tech in Dallas, Texas, targeting professionals in distribution, transmission, and related equipment.

Interview with Brandon Young at Distribute Tech

• Scott MacKenzie introduces Brandon Young, who is attending the conference for the fourth year, and highlights the conference's growth and importance.
• Brandon Young shares his background, mentioning his education at Auburn University and his role as President and CEO of Young Management and Consulting (YMC).
• YMC has grown internationally, serving a team of 120 individuals across the US, UAE, and Dubai.
• Brandon discusses the company's focus on providing innovative solutions, data analytics, software solutions, and project management services.

Technological and Industry Trends

• Brandon Young discusses the technological boom in the energy sector and the challenges of leveraging AI to its full potential.
• He emphasizes the need for grid reliability and affordability, noting the significant impact of power outages on revenue and business GDP.
• Scott and Brandon discuss the balance between modernizing infrastructure and managing rate increases to avoid impacting consumers.
• Brandon highlights the importance of innovation in project execution and the need for more competition in the market to drive efficiency and cost management.

Recruitment and Leadership Development

• Brandon Young explains the challenges of recruiting skilled professionals and the strategies YMC uses to find and develop talent.
• He shares his approach of converting journeyman linemen into construction managers and hiring military veterans for their structured work ethic.
• Brandon discusses the importance of natural skill sets and providing coaching and training to help employees grow into leadership roles.
• He mentions the company's high school intern program as a way to attract future talent and the potential return of vocational programs to support the trades.

Innovation and Technology in Field Operations

• Brandon Young describes the deployment of iPads and the Fulcrum app to improve data collection and project management in the field.
• The app allows team members to take photos, capture information, and track project progress in real-time.
• Scott and Brandon discuss the importance of safety in field operations and the company's zero-incident record since inception.
• Brandon emphasizes the need for regular safety briefings, tracking safety hours, and addressing near misses to prevent future incidents.

Future of the Utility Industry

• Brandon Young predicts a shift in how the industry hires talent, with a focus on attracting young professionals and reviving vocational programs.
• He believes that entry-level jobs without context will be eliminated, and roles requiring innovation and process improvement will become more important.
• Scott and Brandon discuss the role of AI in the industry, noting the need for utilities to figure out how to implement new technologies effectively.
• Brandon highlights the challenges of managing multiple data projects and the need to break down silos to achieve holistic improvements.

Conclusion and Contact Information

• Scott MacKenzie wraps up the conversation, encouraging listeners to reach out to Brandon Young for collaboration opportunities.
• Brandon provides his contact information, including social media handles and email, for those interested in working with YMC.
• Scott reiterates the importance of attending events like Distribute Tech and the Boston Med Device Expo to stay updated on industry trends and opportunities.
• The podcast concludes with a reminder of the support from Siemens Smart Infrastructure and Grid Software and an invitation to visit siemens.com for more information.

Scott MacKenzie promotes the Boston MEDevice event on September 30-October 1, 2025, organized by Informa, emphasizing education and collaboration in the medical device industry. At DistribuTech in Dallas, Mike Beehler discusses the Power Delivery Intelligence Initiative (PDI2). He highlights the need for significant investments in the electric grid, noting Texas's plan to double infrastructure spending. Beeler emphasizes the importance of efficient, resilient, and affordable grid systems, including the potential benefits of underground transmission lines. He also discusses the challenges of public safety power shutoffs and the advanced technology available today for grid maintenance and upgrades.

Action Items

• [ ] Attend the ME Device Boston event on September 30 – October 1, 2025.
• [ ] Connect with Mike Beeler, Power Delivery Intelligence Initiative, at m.beeler@pdi2.org or on LinkedIn.

Outline

Medical Device Event Announcement

• Scott MacKenzie announces the ME Device Boston event from September 30 to October 1, 2025, emphasizing its importance for professionals in the medical device industry.
• The event is organized by Informa, known for their educational and collaborative events.
• Scott encourages attendees to mark their calendars and participate in the event.
• The event aims to foster innovation and collaboration within the medical device industry.

Introduction to Industrial Talk Podcast

• Scott thanks listeners for their support and celebrates industrial professionals for their contributions to society.
• The podcast is sponsored by Siemens Smart Infrastructure and Grid Software, encouraging listeners to visit siemens.com for more information.
• Scott mentions the current broadcast location at Distribute Tech in Dallas, Texas, and introduces Mike Beeler as a guest.

Discussion with Mike Beehler on Power Delivery Intelligence

• Mike Beehler introduces himself and his role in the Power Delivery Intelligence Initiative (PDI2).
• Mike shares his experience moderating a panel on investment strategies for the electric grid, emphasizing the significant investments planned.
• The Texas “miracle” is discussed, highlighting the state's economic growth and the need for increased infrastructure investment.
• The conversation touches on the challenges of rate recovery and affordability in the context of grid modernization.

Challenges and Solutions in Grid Modernization

• Mike discusses the need for more efficient and resilient grid infrastructure, using newer technologies.
• The regulatory process for setting utility rates is explained, including the importance of keeping rate increases below the cost of inflation.
• The conversation highlights the impact of grid inefficiencies on affordability and the need for a more reliable and resilient grid.
• Scott and Mike discuss the importance of consumer expectations for quality electricity and the challenges of public safety power shutoffs in wildfire areas.

Underground vs. Overhead Transmission Lines

• The discussion shifts to the pros and cons of underground vs. overhead transmission lines.
• Mike explains the higher initial cost of underground lines but their lower long-term maintenance costs.
• The conversation covers the challenges of converting an entire grid to underground lines and the need for a balanced approach.
• Scott shares a personal anecdote about underground distribution work in Long Beach, California, and the advanced technology used today.

Case Study: 500 kV Underground Transmission Line

• Mike shares a case study of a 500 kV underground transmission line project in Chino Hills, California.
• The project faced public opposition but was ultimately completed due to its importance for renewable energy transmission.
• The conversation highlights the critical nature of splicing and termination processes in underground transmission lines.
• Mike emphasizes the importance of advanced technology and material sciences in modern grid infrastructure.

Future of the Power Industry

• Mike discusses the future of the power industry, emphasizing the influx of talented young professionals with advanced degrees.
• The conversation covers the electrification movement in the U.S. and the exciting opportunities in the power industry.
• Mike shares his contact information for listeners interested in connecting with him.
• Scott wraps up the conversation, encouraging listeners to connect with Mike and stay tuned for more content on Industrial Talk.

Action Items

• [ ] Connect with Milouni and Jeff on LinkedIn to discuss Siemens' offerings further.
• [ ] Develop more collaboration and communication between interconnected utilities to drive innovation.
• [ ] Assess legacy infrastructure and implement segmentation, firewalls, and intrusion detection to add security layers.
• [ ] Explore use cases for digital substation solutions to address utility challenges.
• [ ] Investigate how AI can be leveraged to enhance cybersecurity and efficiency, while addressing potential risks.

Outline

Introduction and Welcome

• Scott MacKenzie introduces the Industrial Talk Podcast, emphasizing its focus on industry innovations and professionals.
• Scott welcomes listeners and highlights the importance of industry professionals in solving global problems.
• The podcast is sponsored by Siemens Smart Infrastructure and Grid Software, encouraging listeners to visit siemens.com for more information.
• Scott mentions the current broadcast location at Distribute Tech in Dallas, Texas, and introduces the guests, Jeff and Maloney from Siemens.

Initial Impressions and Conference Overview

• Jeff and Milouni express their excitement about the conference, noting its massive scale and high interest in the topics discussed.
• Scott comments on the growth of the conference compared to previous years and reflects on the evolution of the utility industry.
• Milouni discusses the ongoing challenges faced by utilities, including increased costs and digitalization, and the advancements in technology that help address these challenges.
• Scott and Milouni agree on the significant progress made in technology over the past few decades, which has improved the ability to tackle utility issues.

Professional Backgrounds and Roles

• Milouni introduces herself, sharing her extensive experience in marketing, particularly in the electric power industry.
• Milouni emphasizes the ever-evolving nature of the utility industry and the importance of communication infrastructure in digitalization.
• Jeff shares his background, detailing his 24 years at Siemens, focusing on communications, telecom, and cybersecurity for critical infrastructures.
• Jeff highlights the constant evolution and changing requirements in the utility sector, which necessitate continuous adaptation and innovation.

Challenges and Solutions in Utility Modernization

• Scott and Jeff discuss the challenges of modernizing utilities, including the need for more efficient and cost-effective solutions.
• Milouni explains Siemens' approach to helping utilities transition to digital substations, which offers significant benefits in addressing current challenges.
• Jeff elaborates on the use cases developed by Siemens to guide customers through the digitalization process, providing architectural and implementation insights.
• The conversation touches on the importance of collaboration and communication between utilities and regulatory bodies to drive efficiency and compliance.

Legacy Systems and Security

• Scott inquires about the challenges of integrating legacy systems with modern solutions, particularly in terms of security.
• Jeff explains that security can be added to existing networks through segmentation and the use of advanced firewalls and intrusion detection systems.
• Milouni emphasizes the importance of secure, reliable, and redundant communication solutions in enabling digitalization and ensuring regulatory compliance.
• The discussion highlights the need for a holistic approach to cybersecurity, considering both legacy and modern systems.

Future Trends and AI in Utility Management

• Milouni discusses the role of AI in enhancing cybersecurity and efficiency in the utility sector.
• Scott and Jeff agree on the importance of trusted partners in implementing AI and other advanced technologies.
• Jeff mentions Siemens' work on zero-touch and AI solutions, which help automate and secure utility networks.
• The conversation underscores the need for continuous improvement and adaptation in cybersecurity and digitalization efforts.

Conclusion and Contact Information

• Scott thanks Jeff and Milouni for their insights and contributions to the podcast.
• Milouni provides her LinkedIn profile information for listeners interested in connecting with her.
• Jeff does the same, encouraging listeners to reach out via LinkedIn for further discussions.
• Scott wraps up the podcast, reiterating the importance of the topics discussed and the value of Siemens' solutions in the utility sector.

If interested in being on the Industrial Talk show, simply contact us and let's have a quick conversation.

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Personal LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-gounaris-52808a4/

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Company Website: https://www.gwelectric.com/

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