Alan Ross with APC Media

Industrial Talk is onsite at DistribuTech 2025 and talking to Alan Ross, Managing Editor at APC Media about "Insights into the Dynamic Utility/Energy Market".

Scott MacKenzie and Alan Ross discuss the five elements of successful companies: education, collaboration, innovation, culture investment, and communication. They highlight the importance of trust and innovation in the power industry, noting Siemens' leadership. Ross emphasizes the need for condition-based maintenance and the formation of the Safety and Reliability Association (SARA) to address electrical safety and reliability. He also discusses the impact of renewable energy on the grid and the importance of promoting women in the industry. The conversation concludes with a call to action for industry professionals to engage with SARA and download free resources from Industrial Talk.

Action Items

• [ ] Reach out to Alan Ross ([e-mail]) to learn more about SARA and get involved.
• [ ] Download the free ebook and workbook from industrial talk.
• [ ] Explore the Siemens website (siemens.com) to learn about their smart infrastructure and grid software solutions.

Outline

Introduction and Podcast Overview

• Scott MacKenzie introduces the Industrial Talk podcast, emphasizing its focus on industry professionals and their innovations.
• Scott mentions a free ebook and workbook available on Industrial Talk, highlighting five elements of successful companies: education, collaboration, innovation, culture investment, and effective communication.
• Scott MacKenzie, describing him as a passionate industry professional dedicated to sharing innovations and trends.
• Scott MacKenzie thanks listeners for their support and celebrates industry professionals for their boldness, bravery, and problem-solving skills.

Welcome to Distribute Tech and Siemens Sponsorship

• Scott MacKenzie welcomes listeners to Distribute Tech in Dallas, Texas, sponsored by Siemens Smart Infrastructure and Grid Software.
• Scott and Alan Ross discuss their excitement about being at the event and their recent podcast appearances.
• Scott and Alan Ross share light-hearted banter about their appearances and the importance of looking dapper in the industry.
• Scott and Alan Ross discuss the busy nature of the event and the importance of smaller vendors in the industry.

Discussion on Trust and Innovation in the Power Industry

• Scott MacKenzie expresses concerns about finding trusted individuals in the renaissance of technology and innovation in the power generation and utilities sectors.
• Alan Ross emphasizes the trustworthiness and character of people in the power industry, highlighting Siemens as a highly innovative company.
• Alan Ross shares a saying about Siemens, "No one ever got fired for buying from Siemens," and discusses the consolidation of major players in the industry.
• Alan Ross explains the shift from transactional sales to problem-solving and the importance of listening to customer needs.

Renaissance in the Power Industry and Travel Opportunities

• Alan Ross discusses the renaissance in the industrial, commercial, and utility power industry, noting its global impact.
• Scott MacKenzie and Alan Ross talk about the travel opportunities in the industry and the exciting challenges it presents.
• Alan Ross shares insights about his company, APC Media, and its operations in Croatia, highlighting the European tilt of their...