Tom Kurtz with Hexagon Asset Lifecycle Intelligence

Industrial Talk is onsite at DistribuTech 2025 and talking to Tom Kurtz, Vice President at Hexagon Asset Lifecycle Intelligence about "Utility Asset Management Solutions".

Scott MacKenzie and Tom Kurtz discuss the importance of asset management in the utility space, highlighting the challenges of tracking and maintaining assets that are not easily visible. They emphasize the need for a comprehensive approach that integrates strategy and execution, leveraging technologies like Hexagon's EAM and network design systems. Kurtz explains how Hexagon's solutions help manage the entire asset life cycle, from maintenance requests to predictive reliability, and stresses the importance of user adoption and data management. They also touch on the benefits of visualizing assets in 3D for better field operations and the role of project portfolio planning in construction and capital investment.

Action Items

• [ ] Reach out to Tom Kurtz on LinkedIn to discuss Hexagon's solutions further.

Outline

Introduction and Welcome to Industrial Talk Podcast

• Scott MacKenzie introduces the Industrial Talk Podcast, highlighting its focus on industrial professionals and their innovations.
• Scott MacKenzie mentions the sponsors, Siemens Smart Infrastructure and Grid Software, and encourages listeners to visit siemens.com.
• The podcast is broadcasting live from Distribute Tech in Dallas, Texas, targeting professionals in the utility space.
• Scott MacKenzie introduces Tom Kurtz from Hexagon, who is in the "hot seat" to discuss his company and its offerings.

Tom Kurtz's Initial Impressions and Conference Experience

• Tom Kurtz expresses his gratitude for the invitation and shares his excitement about the conference.
• Tom Kurtz describes the diverse range of exhibits at the conference, including trucks, electrical poles, and software.
• Scott MacKenzie and Tom Kurtz discuss the broad scope of the utility space and the various solutions on display.
• Tom Kurtz mentions the importance of asset management and its role in strategic planning for utilities.

Challenges in Asset Management and Regulatory Considerations

• Scott MacKenzie and Tom Kurtz discuss the challenges of managing assets that are not easily visible, such as transformers.
• Tom Kurtz shares a customer's perspective on managing the entire life cycle of assets, not just maintaining them.
• The conversation touches on the importance of proactive and predictive asset management.
• Tom Kurtz explains the need for a strategic approach to asset management, considering both reliability and risk.

Strategic vs. Execution in Asset Management

• Tom Kurtz emphasizes the importance of optimizing strategy and execution in asset management.
• He explains that companies often struggle with executing strategies effectively.
• Tom Kurtz suggests that companies should not wait to achieve 100% execution before implementing strategies.
• The discussion highlights the need for a balanced approach, combining asset performance and maintenance efficiency.

Change Management and Hexagon's Role

• Scott MacKenzie raises the issue of change management and the human element in adopting new technologies.
• Tom Kurtz explains that Hexagon's approach includes recognizing the human aspect and integrating it into the design and deployment process.
• He stresses the importance of involving business and functional