Purpose, Leadership, and the Power of Connection at the T&D Power Skills Trainers Conference

This past week, I had the incredible opportunity to attend and speak at the T&D Power Skills Trainers Conference, where industry leaders, trainers, program directors, and passionate professionals from across the electric utility industry gathered to share insights, experiences, and a vision for the future. It was an inspiring event—one that reinforced the idea that while we may come from different utilities, training programs, and backgrounds, we are all facing the same challenges and striving for the same goal: developing the next generation of line workers and front-line professionals with the skills, leadership, and purpose to succeed.

Recognizing the T&D Power Skills Team

None of this would be possible without the dedication and hard work of the T&D Power Skills team. Special recognition goes to Founder - Ronald Schenk, Vice President - Kenneth Pardue, COSS - Jerry Havens, CUSP - Mack Turner, COSS - Ryan Schenk, Director of Member Services - Jamie Yaeger and the many other members of the T & D Power Skills Team. Their commitment to excellence in training and leadership development has made a significant impact on the industry. Along with the other members of the T&D Power Skills program, their passion for the people in the industry is what makes this conference such an essential and inspiring event.

A Shared Mission: Elevating the Trade

The energy at the conference was undeniable, from check in, to Gretchen Johnsons – keynote, the breakout sessions, and exhibit hall. Conversations with fellow trainers and industry experts quickly revealed that our struggles—retention, safety culture, leadership development, and workforce preparedness—are shared across the board. T&D Power Skills has always been dedicated to equipping trainers with the tools and resources necessary to create the best learning environments, and this conference proved just how passionate the people behind that mission truly are.

Throughout the event, we heard from some of the best in the industry, including fellow trainers, program directors, and leaders who are committed to shaping the future of our workforce. Their dedication to mentorship, leadership, and education serves as a powerful reminder that this industry isn’t just about the work—it’s about the people.

“Leading the Charge” – A Joint Call for Leadership Development

I was honored to co-present with Jon Backman on “Leading the Charge”, a talk that reflected not only on my search for purpose but on the broader need for leadership development in across the industry.

Leading the charge is about more than just teaching technical skills—it is about preparing people for true success by instilling leadership, resilience, and responsibility. As trainers, mentors, and leaders, we have a duty to go beyond the tools and techniques and focus on the growth of the individuals we serve. This means fostering a culture of growth, empathy, trust, accountability, communication, and courage.

Connecting with Industry Leaders and Trainers

One of the highlights of this conference was the opportunity to connect with like-minded professionals who share this passion for leadership and training. Talking with fellow attendees—trainers, foremen, safety directors, and program developers—was a reminder that we are all working toward the same goals. Whether it was discussing apprenticeship programs, training challenges, workforce shortages, or the mental health of our workers, every conversation reaffirmed that we are not alone in these struggles.

Some of the incredible individuals and organizations in attendance included:

• T&D Power Skills Leadership Team – Providing world-class training solutions for the industry.

• Industry Trainers & Educators – The people working every day to shape the future of line work.

• Safety Professionals – Advocating for a culture where safety isn’t just compliance, but a way of life.

• Apprenticeship & Training Directors – Developing the workforce through structured, impactful training.

• Veteran Line Workers & Industry Professionals – Passing down the wisdom, skills, and leadership qualities that make this industry so unique.

It was inspiring to hear how every organization, every training program, and every leader in that room is experiencing the same needs and challenges. More importantly, it was motivating to know that we are all committed to working together to create solutions.

The Future: A Call to Action

Leaving this conference, I couldn’t help but feel a renewed sense of purpose and responsibility. The future of the electrical utility industry depends on how well we train, inspire, and lead the next generation. We must continue to foster leadership at every level—not just in foremen, supervisors, or management, but in every individual who steps onto a job site.

So, to my fellow trainers, line workers, program directors, and industry leaders—let’s continue this conversation. Let’s share our experiences, struggles, and solutions. Let’s ensure that those coming into this industry are not just trained, but prepared—not just employees, but leaders.

I am grateful to T&D Power Skills for hosting such a valuable event, and to all the attendees who shared their knowledge and passion. Together, we are truly leading the charge.

What’s Next?

I’d love to hear from you! What challenges are you facing in training and workforce development? How do you inspire leadership in your organization? Let’s keep the conversation going and continue making an impact on this incredible industry.

Stay safe, stay focused, and keep leading the charge.