Power Onward

Cummins

Power Onward is the podcast that unveils how power technology shapes your everyday life. From the tech powering your daily life to the innovations driving industries forward, we talk about it all. Brought to you by Cummins, each episode explores what’s fueling the future and why it matters for your mission, business, and community.

  1. Technology meets purpose

    12/03/2025

    Technology meets purpose

    Powering paradise comes with significant responsibilities. In this episode of Power Onward, Kim talks with Sherif about how battery energy storage systems (BESS) are changing the way Australia and the Asia Pacific region keep the lights on. From rooftop solar in suburban neighborhoods to remote islands, luxury resorts, and fast-growing data centers, Sherif shares how smarter storage is making energy cleaner, more reliable, and more cost-effective. In this episode, you’ll learn: How BESS turns daytime solar into evening power for homes, schools, and councilsHow hybrid systems can cut diesel fuel use dramatically in remote and island communitiesWhy data centers now look at BESS as part of core energy strategy, not just backup Additional Resources: Cummins MicrogridsCummins BESS webpage Why battery storage is now essential to microgrid developmentKey tips to help understand battery energy storage systemsPower Onward podcast: Beyond your average household batteryWhat are battery energy storage systems?How BESS is driving grid stability, supporting renewables, and accelerating the Middle East region’s clean energy goals Interested in learning more? Subscribe to the [3-minute Power Up] to get breakthrough stories and the latest innovations in power technology delivered  straight to your inbox: https://www.cummins.com/news/podcast#subscribe   Dive into the conversation: (00:00) This is Power Onward (01:22) How BESS shows up across APAC (02:33) Energy shifting 101 (04:04) Pairing diesel, solar, and BESS to cut fuel use in remote locations (05:01) A Pacific Island project that unlocks energy independence and steadier power (05:53) How islands are using renewable microgrids as a differentiator (07:06) Data centers, AI, and why batteries now support the digital world (08:16) Where BESS is headed next in APAC (08:54) The human impact behind the tech

    11 min
  2. From trash to torque

    11/05/2025

    From trash to torque

    What if the stuff we throw away could keep trucks moving? In this episode of Power Onward, Kim sits down with Dave to talk about renewable natural gas, aka RNG, and how it turns things like landfill trash, cow manure, and food waste into clean, usable fuel. They break down what RNG actually is, how it’s made, and why more fleets are already using it. They also explore what makes the Cummins X15N engine a game changer, how RNG stacks up against diesel, and how cow waste fits into a surprisingly full-circle clean energy story. In this episode, you’ll learn: How RNG’s carbon intensity can go below zeroWhy dairy farms are key players in clean fuelWhat drivers are saying about switching to RNG engines Articles Natural gas readinessX15N Engine | Cummins Inc.How to transition your fleet to natural gas enginesReducing your company’s Scope 3 Emissions with RNGThe legacy of a “King” ft. David J. King Additional Resources: RNG Coalition InfographicBioTown AgThe Transport ProjectClean Energy FuelsRNG Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Interested in learning more? Subscribe to the [3-minute Power Up] to get breakthrough stories and the latest innovations in power technology delivered  straight to your inbox: https://www.cummins.com/news/podcast#subscribe   Dive into the conversation: (00:00) This is Power Onward (00:33) What RNG is and how it’s made (02:11) From waste to pipeline-ready fuel (03:37) Where RNG fits into commercial fleets (04:15) How RNG helps fleets cut emissions and costs (05:15) Why RNG can be carbon-negative (06:48) California’s RNG adoption and what it shows (08:34) A full-circle dairy farm story (12:02) The X15N engine’s first year in action (17:49) What drivers say about RNG behind the wheel

    21 min
  3. Keeping the cloud and planet online

    10/29/2025

    Keeping the cloud and planet online

    How do we keep AI running when the grid starts to strain? Bhargava joins Kim to explore the pressure data centers are placing on global power systems. He explains what’s changing in energy demand, why data center operators are bringing their own power, and how Cummins is stepping in with more sustainable solutions. Through examples such as battery energy storage systems (BESS) and advanced generators, Bhargava shares how technology is adapting to keep up with AI’s around-the-clock needs. He also explains the misconception that reliability and sustainability are at odds, when in fact, they work better together. This episode pulls back the curtain on the invisible systems powering our digital lives. In this episode, you’ll learn: How data centers are shifting energy strategies to meet AI’s nonstop power demandsWhy grid constraints are fueling innovation in on-site energyWhat Cummins is doing to help keep AI online and emissions downAdditional resources Global reach, local support for data center powerFirst Down: meet the Gridiron Greats of power systemsPowering sustainable data centersThree Emerging Trends in data center sustainabilityEvolution of DC Onsite Power Use Interested in learning more? Subscribe to the [3-minute Power Up] to get breakthrough stories and the latest innovations in power technology delivered  straight to your inbox: https://www.cummins.com/news/podcast#subscribe   Dive into the conversation: (00:00) This is Power Onward (00:26) How data centers silently power your digital life (01:31) Cummins’ role in keeping AI engines always on (02:57) What 36 gigawatts of energy demand means (04:19) Why AI growth is reshaping energy infrastructure (06:29) Grid constraints explained through real-world examples (10:37) Breaking down reliability and sustainability pressures (13:30) What Tier 4 and BESS mean for emissions (15:50) How Cummins keeps your AI running smoothly (17:34) Cummins’ bold roadmap for powering the AI future

    20 min
  4. If you can’t grow it, you have to mine it

    10/22/2025

    If you can’t grow it, you have to mine it

    What connects the trucks in remote mines to the phones in our pockets? Guilherme shows Kim how copper, iron, and other essential minerals fuel not only machinery but also the digital world we live in. From electric vehicles to data centers, mining plays a central role in the systems we rely on every day. He shares what it’s like to stand beside a 400-ton truck, how massive mine sites operate like cities, and why copper remains critical to AI expansion. With firsthand stories from Peru and insights from his time at Cummins, Guilherme brings the mining industry into focus. This conversation reveals how power begins long before the plug and how Cummins is contributes from the ground up. In this episode, you’ll learn: How haul trucks and excavators move hundreds of tons in a single load.What it takes to power mine sites located far from the grid.Why mining is opening more doors for women across the industry. Additional Resources Pit to port: An interactive experienceMilestone in assemblyCummins, Vale, and Komatsu advance joint dual fuel program to develop large truck engine powered by both ethanol and dieselPower with purpose: How the QSK95 is redefining ultra-class mining productivityCummins and Komatsu to collaborate on joint mining hybrid development plan Interested in learning more? Subscribe to the [3-minute Power Up] to get breakthrough stories and the latest innovations in power technology delivered  straight to your inbox: https://www.cummins.com/news/podcast#subscribe   Dive into the conversation: (00:00) This is Power Onward (01:15) Why the mining image in your head is outdated (02:13) The childhood toy that sparked a mining career (03:37) How mining connects to everything we use daily (04:13) How big are haul trucks, really? (08:08) How Cummins supports both mining and data centers (10:09) A haul truck built entirely by women (11:16) What’s next for cleaner mining technology (13:05) How off-grid mine sites stay powered with Cummins (15:52) Visualizing the QSK95 engine (17:27) Life on a 10-days-in, 10-days-out schedule (19:40) What 190 gallons of fuel per hour looks like (20:21) How one engine contains 16 RAM truck engines

    23 min
  5. Power to see the beauty within

    10/15/2025

    Power to see the beauty within

    What does power mean when the grid isn’t guaranteed?  Tanya joins Kim from Johannesburg to discuss how Cummins is supporting communities across Africa and the Middle East. Their efforts span hospitals, telecom towers, data centers, and homes, providing innovative and reliable energy solutions. With a background in design and a passion for people, Tanya brings a fresh perspective to power technology. She highlights the beauty found in even the smallest engine components, the significance of battery energy storage systems, and how Cummins empowers individuals to shape their own careers. This episode serves as a reminder that when power and purpose intersect, the possibilities are endless. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why power reliability is critical in regions like Africa and the Middle East—and how Cummins is meeting that need.How creativity, not just engineering, has a place in shaping the future of power.Why believing in yourself is the first step to making a real impact at Cummins. Additional Resources Valuing the power of differenceThe Keeper. The Preserver. The Archivist.The delicate art of designing for the futureFrom Capitol Hill to clean energyThe DNA of an engineer Interested in learning more? Subscribe to the [3-minute Power Up] to get breakthrough stories and the latest innovations in power technology delivered  straight to your inbox: https://www.cummins.com/news/podcast#subscribe   Dive into the conversation: (00:00) This is Power Onward (00:33) Tanya shares how engine parts became works of art (02:47) From design agency to Cummins creative (05:01) The power of storytelling through visuals and campaigns (06:22) Why creativity belongs in a technical world (07:57) Tanya explains the energy challenges across her region (09:40) Battery energy storage systems making a real impact (11:10) Her superpower is spotting strengths in others (14:46) Navigating languages, cultures, and currencies (17:38) Cummins is chosen for product strength and people commitment (19:54) Tanya’s message to employees: trust your value and speak up

    22 min
  6. 10 seconds to save a life

    10/08/2025

    10 seconds to save a life

    Power isn’t just critical, it’s lifesaving. In this episode of Power Onward, Kim talks with Nick about the invisible lifelines inside hospitals—the backup power systems that activate in under 10 seconds to keep surgeries going, medications stable, and life-saving tech running. Nick explains how Cummins is uniquely positioned to serve healthcare providers thanks to decades of experience, end-to-end system design, and an unwavering focus on innovation. From diesel reliability to the future of microgrids and battery storage, discover how Cummins is helping hospitals balance resilience with sustainability. Because in a world where lives are on the line, there’s no time for power failure. In this episode, you’ll learn: How power systems impact hospital operations beyond just the operating room.Why Cummins’ integrated approach gives healthcare providers confidence when it matters most.What the future holds for resilient and sustainable healthcare power systems. Additional Resources Trust in one. Trust in Cummins. | Cummins HealthcareHow Cummins powered the frontline of healthcareCummins healthcare power solutionsInterested in learning more? Subscribe to the [3-minute Power Up] to get breakthrough stories and the latest innovations in power technology delivered  straight to your inbox: https://www.cummins.com/news/podcast#subscribe   Dive into the conversation: (00:00) This is Power Onward (00:34) The 10-second countdown to restore power (01:20) Why healthcare depends on backup systems (02:16) The evolving need for resiliency and power in hospitals (03:25) The hidden power behind critical hospital functions (05:13) What happens during those crucial 10 seconds (06:54) Real-world demonstration of backup power in action (07:55) ATS vs. UPS (09:01) What sets Cummins apart in healthcare (10:47) Balancing sustainability with reliability (13:08) How battery storage and lighter gensets reduce emissions (15:07) Microgrids: The future of hospital power systems (18:47) Wrapping up with a look toward tomorrow

    20 min
  7. Making space for planet and profit

    10/01/2025

    Making space for planet and profit

    When it comes to power technology, the future is shaped by the decisions we make today. In this episode, Kim sits down with Tara to explore what sustainability really means for Cummins and why it’s more than a buzzword.  It’s a strategy. A mindset. A movement. Together, they unpack Cummins’ Destination Zero strategy, circular economy principles, and the role design plays in building a healthier planet. With honesty and energy, Tara shares how Cummins is simplifying sustainability for its people and why focusing on your sphere of influence might be the most powerful thing you can do. Whether you’re designing the future of energy or choosing what to wear tomorrow, this episode will show you how small actions can lead to a big impact. In this episode, you’ll learn: How Cummins’ Destination Zero strategy links sustainability to growth and impactWhy the circular economy is about recycling and designing smarter from the startHow Cummins is empowering employees to take action, not just take notes Additional Resources Cummins Chair, CEO announces goal to double fuel efficiency work with customersDoes the pace of the energy transition influence decarbonization goals?What is circular economy? Climate transition plan: Circular economy modelCummins environmental sustainabilitySustainability reports libraryCummins water works: Addressing the global water crisis Interested in learning more? Subscribe to the [3-minute Power Up] to get breakthrough stories and the latest innovations in power technology delivered  straight to your inbox: https://www.cummins.com/news/podcast#subscribe   Dive into the conversation: (00:00) This is Power Onward (01:28) Why Tara made sustainability personal (02:49) What Destination Zero really means (03:26) Breaking down and simplifying sustainability (05:29) Why decarbonization matters at Cummins (06:34) Fuel-agnostic engines and customer-focused innovation (08:09) Renewable energy and powering manufacturing responsibly (08:38) Circular economy: use less, use better, use again (10:37) Navigating the energy transition with confidence (12:35) Why sustainability is good business (15:38) What gives Tara hope for the future (17:16) The “no new clothes” challenge and engaging employees (19:33) Designing products for a full lifecycle (19:54) Employee engagement and action through sustainability influencers (20:44) Final thoughts: sustainability happens now or not at all

    22 min
  8. Power that pollinates

    09/24/2025

    Power that pollinates

    Not every engineer starts with a textbook. Some start with a wrench. In this episode of Power Onward, Kim talks with Taylor about what it means to build a career from hands-on experience. Taylor shares how she went from managing an oil change shop to leading a 25-person test engineering team at Cummins. Through stories from the garage to the test cell, she shows how confidence and capability grow when curiosity leads the way. Hear how Taylor’s real-world perspective shapes how Cummins validates engine performance, supports team development, and contributes to a more inclusive workplace. In this episode, you’ll learn: How hands-on experience builds a strong foundation in engineeringWhat engine testing looks like behind the scenes at CumminsHow leadership and mentorship go hand-in-hand in technical environments Additional Resources Cummins powers womenIndiana Native Plants SIU Automotive Technology ProgramCummins: Social responsibilityCummins: Corporate responsibility Interested in learning more? Subscribe to the [3-minute Power Up] to get breakthrough stories and the latest innovations in power technology delivered  straight to your inbox: https://www.cummins.com/news/podcast#subscribe   Dive into the conversation: (00:00) This is Power Onward (00:33) From oil changes to Cummins: how it all began (02:34) Learning to trust her value in engineering spaces (05:38) Navigating challenges as a woman in engineering (08:14) How Cummins and gardening shaped Taylor’s purpose (11:36) A deeper look at community, belonging, and leadership (13:18) What it’s like inside the testing lab (16:00) What night shift leadership taught her about resilience

    19 min
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About

Power Onward is the podcast that unveils how power technology shapes your everyday life. From the tech powering your daily life to the innovations driving industries forward, we talk about it all. Brought to you by Cummins, each episode explores what’s fueling the future and why it matters for your mission, business, and community.

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  • Creator
    Cummins
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    25
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Cummins