The Intersection

Utilities Technology Council

The utility industry is in the midst of profound change. New technologies are empowering cleaner, more efficient energy resources and a stronger grid. Communications systems are the key to this evolving industry. UTC sits at the intersection where the energy and tech communities come together. Listen in as we discuss the latest trends, business opportunities, policies, and related issues like diversity and workforce development. Meet us at the Intersection! https://utc.org/podcast/

  1. Oct 30

    Episode 42: Energy and Utilities - Serving the People We Represent

    How are critical minerals, artificial intelligence, data centers, and energy security shaping the future of America's utility and energy industries? In this episode of the UTC Intersection Podcast, UTC President and CEO Rusty Williams sits down with Congressman Gary Palmer, who represents Alabama's 6th Congressional District and serves on the House Energy and Commerce Committee. Together, they discuss Congressman Palmer's journey from rural Alabama to Capitol Hill, his career in engineering and public policy, and the federal policy issues shaping the future of energy, technology, and infrastructure. They discuss: Congressman Palmer's upbringing in rural Alabama and the mentors and opportunities that shaped his career His transition from private industry and nonprofit leadership into public service The role of the House Energy and Commerce Committee in addressing national energy, environmental, and technology issues America's dependence on China for critical minerals and rare earth elements and the importance of strengthening domestic supply chains Opportunities to expand critical mineral processing, refining, and manufacturing in the United States, including rural communities The growing demand for data centers and artificial intelligence and the importance of communicating their value to the public How AI could transform healthcare, scientific research, traffic management, and energy efficiency Data center concerns surrounding water usage, community impact, electricity demand, and infrastructure development ...and much more! At the heart of the conversation is a simple idea: America's energy and technology future depends on strategic investments, reliable infrastructure, innovation, and the ability to turn emerging challenges into opportunities for communities across the country. This episode offers an inside look at the federal policy decisions, technological advancements, and energy priorities that will help shape America's future and the utility industry. Special Guest: Congressman Gary Palmer.

  2. Aug 27

    Episode 41: UTC Past & Present: A Conversation on Leadership, Legacy, and the Future

    What has changed in the utility communications industry over the past 40 years and what has stayed the same? In this episode of the UTC Intersection Podcast, UTC CEO Rusty Williams sits down with two longtime UTC leaders, Ken Campbell, retired from AEP and UTC Board Chair from 2004–2005, and Dewey Day of PG&E, who served as UTC Board Chair from 2022–2023. Together, they reflect on decades of involvement with UTC, their career journeys in utility telecommunications, and the experiences that shaped their leadership. They discuss: • How their careers evolved from engineering and telecommunications into leadership roles • Their first experiences with UTC and what kept them involved • The value of networking and collaboration among utility professionals • How UTC supports advocacy, public policy, technical education, and industry connections • Why utilities can openly share solutions and learn from one another • How UTC has adapted as technology and the utility industry have changed • The professional development opportunities that come from volunteering and serving in leadership roles • Memorable experiences from their years serving UTC • The importance of preserving UTC's culture of collaboration while preparing for the future • UTC's journey toward its 100th anniversary—the Path to 100 At the heart of the conversation is a simple idea: technology changes, but the people and relationships that make the industry stronger endure. This episode offers a unique look at UTC's history, evolution, and the people who have helped shape its future. Special Guests: Dewey Day and Ken Campbell.

About

The utility industry is in the midst of profound change. New technologies are empowering cleaner, more efficient energy resources and a stronger grid. Communications systems are the key to this evolving industry. UTC sits at the intersection where the energy and tech communities come together. Listen in as we discuss the latest trends, business opportunities, policies, and related issues like diversity and workforce development. Meet us at the Intersection! https://utc.org/podcast/