In this special episode of PowerGridTalks, host Thomas Williamson travels to the 2026 OSR Conference to speak with linemen, utility leaders, contractors, manufacturers, and industry professionals from across North America. Through a series of candid conversations, you'll hear firsthand perspectives on the future of linework, storm restoration, workforce development, safety culture, leadership, emerging technology, and what it takes to build a stronger, more resilient power grid.
Whether you're a journeyman lineman, apprentice, utility executive, contractor, or someone exploring a career in the electrical utility industry, this episode provides a unique snapshot of where the industry is headed—and the people helping shape its future.
In this episode you'll hear discussions about:
- Electric utility industry trends in 2026
- Storm restoration and emergency response
- Utility leadership and company culture
- Recruiting and developing the next generation of linemen
- Safety, training, and career development
- Innovations impacting electric utilities
- Lessons from the field and real-world experiences
- The future of power delivery and grid reliability
PowerGridTalks brings together the voices behind the electric grid—from bucket trucks to boardrooms—to share real stories, practical knowledge, and insights from the people who keep the lights on.
0:00 - Intro
1:35 - Contractor Real Talk
2:33 - Safety With Humanity
3:27 - Drones In The Field
4:52 - Ego And Entitlement
5:37 - Hard Lessons Learned
6:55 - Warning Label Wisdom
11:09 - Pride And Integrity
12:54 - Leadership And Accountability
14:09 - Workforce Qualification Crisis
16:50 - People First Leadership
17:52 - Distribution vs Transmission
18:23 - Safety And Legitimacy
19:26 - Storm Software
21:14 - Passing Down Knowledge
22:05 - Wildest No Show Excuses
22:51 - Compassion And Fatalities
25:40 - Inside The OSR Conference
29:45 - Fundraising And Tough Talks
31:28 - Linemen Personalities
🎧 Visit https://powergridtalks.com for more episodes, articles, and resources for utility professionals.
If you enjoy conversations about linemen, power line work, electric utilities, transmission and distribution, storm restoration, utility leadership, apprenticeships, power grid reliability, and the future of the electrical industry, be sure to Like, Subscribe, and Share to help more utility professionals discover the show.