DECEMBER 202319operate in a space where new technology like electric vehicles, solar batteries, high digital computation, and easy customer access to information, has fundamentally transformed our industry.These new technologies and capabilities allow us to gather data through sensors and measurements to improve our assets. We can work towards achieving safety, reliability, affordability, and the metrics we have been held to for the last hundred years in this regulatory world. It's a disservice to assume that utilities are simply waiting for some proliferation or regulatory mandates or technological advancements.We are in a position to advantageously, deploy proven technologies to enhance our reliability metrics, eliminate inefficiencies, and adapt to the evolving energy landscape. This revolves around identifying the right talent, where they need to be positioned, how they should be engaged and how they can progress.Leadership changes and technical acumen are essential in the utility space. The problem we have in the electric utility industry, unfortunately, about 40 years ago, the electric utility sector drove out the talent needed for the kind of transformation we are witnessing today. We need to reattract that talent. Additionally, we must create a regulatory environment and a financial business model that encourages entrepreneurial thinking.The biggest challenges, not only at my organization but industry-wide, are the need to change this narrative. We must convince those in various roles, from the general counsel's office to customer program development, rate-making, and the CFO's office, that this transformation offers opportunities to reduce cost, create a new revenue stream, and rethink our approach to energy. Our ultimate goal is to enhance the reliability of our existing assets as we transition to this new reality.We, as a unified industry need to focus on the `who' and the `how' to achieve complete situational awareness of our assets, enabling us to manage the flow of electrons safely, affordably, reliably, resiliently, and sustainably. And then the `why' is because electric service is the lifeline of our society. The challenge lies in bringing together the right people and processes to execute this transformation successfully. What is your vision of the future in the next 18 to 24 months?Our primary focus is establishing the right people and processes to execute our vision for an open-source, high-computational power platform that provides complete situational awareness of where the electrons flow, all the way down to the edge that we can manage and orchestrate effectively.Over the next 18 to 24 months, we aim to develop a clear vision, create the requirements for all the necessary technologies and enhance our existing process. The other important part is the recent release of federal funding through the IIJA, covering grip topics one, two, and three. These projects focus on deploying technology that enables these realities I have mentioned.The common themes of these projects revolve around gaining a deeper understanding of the current infrastructure by using tools and systems to bring valuable insights to utility companies. In the next 18 to 24 months, I foresee a significant increase in knowledge related to data analytics and use cases that drive efficiencies in how we operate and manage the grid.What would be your piece of advice for your peers and aspiring professionals in the industry?My advice to my peers and aspiring professionals in the industry is to embrace interdisciplinary learning. In this modern grid, it is not just about electrical engineering but also about understanding data analytics, computer science, and cyber security. My message is to broaden your skillset. Prioritize continuous learning and be a part of an organization that encourages the development of your technical acumen and allows you to keep up with the latest trends.We, as an engineer, tend to be risk-adverse and pragmatic. So, it is crucial to take calculated risks, learn from the failures, and create an environment that allows your contributors to learn quickly. Remember that in our industry, providing access to energy is vital for society, so your work matters. This realization can bring genuine joy as you show up as your best self. Electric service is the lifeline of our society, and we as a unified company strive to provide safe and reliable electric service to communities
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