Power the Network

For more information, connect with us at cbmrep.com/contact In this episode, host Tim Locker interviews Levi Bappe, the general manager of Huxley Communications, a local telephone company serving small towns in Iowa. They discuss Huxley's history with fiber-to-the-home, which they were early adopters of in Iowa back in 2002. Levi talks about their philosophy of not requiring customers to bundle phone service if they only want broadband. He shares how they aim to provide excellent local customer service with quick response times compared to larger companies. Levi also discusses their recent office move into a new building to bring all their operations under one roof, which has improved efficiency. They talk about the challenges of transitioning customers to streaming TV and the learning curve involved. Levi shares his perspective on electric vehicles as Huxley has added two EVs to their fleet. He talks about taking his first road trip in one of the EVs to get to the podcast interview and using public charging stations along the way. If you've enjoyed this conversation, leave a review and subscribe so you don't miss any future episodes. Hosted by CBM's own Vice President of Broadband, Tim Locker, Power the Network is bringing industry leaders to your feed every other week. One minute, you'll dive deep into products and innovative new processes. The next minute, you'll be learning timeless principles to equip you in your career. At CBM, we are powered by ownership, and we're bringing the same energy into podcasting with Power the Network.

For more information, connect with us at cbmrep.com/contact In this episode of Power of the Network podcast, host Tim Locker interviews returning guest Chris Kurtz to discuss the security of the US power grid. They cover physical threats like weather events and terrorism, as well as cybersecurity risks. Kurtz disagrees with sensationalist claims that 90% of people would die if the grid failed, arguing humans are resilient and there are contingency plans in place. He explains there are 3 main interconnected grids in the US that can provide backup power if one goes down. After 9/11, efforts ramped up to protect grid infrastructure and utilities now regularly conduct emergency drills. Substations are being hardened with concrete walls, tougher equipment, and newer technologies like solid dielectric transformers. Most damage comes from ignorance rather than terrorism. On the cyber front, control systems are being isolated from external networks and utilities are building their own secure communication systems. Foreign actors attempt hacks daily but systems are well-protected. Overall the grid is more secure than ever due to planning, drills, equipment upgrades and advanced cyber protections. If you've enjoyed this conversation, leave a review and subscribe so you don't miss any future episodes. Hosted by CBM's own Vice President of Broadband, Tim Locker, Power the Network is bringing industry leaders to your feed every other week. One minute, you'll dive deep into products and innovative new processes. The next minute, you'll be learning timeless principles to equip you in your career. At CBM, we are powered by ownership, and we're bringing the same energy into podcasting with Power the Network.

For more information, connect with us at cbmrep.com/contact In this episode of Power the Network, host Tim Locker interviews Pat Stepanek, Business Development Manager at NVent Hoffman, about automation in the industrial electrical panel industry. Pat provides an overview of Hoffman's solutions that enable panel shops to automate their manufacturing and wiring processes. He discusses Hoffman's Mod Center, a CNC machine that automates cutting and machining of electrical enclosures. The Mod Center provides significant labor savings and accuracy compared to manual methods. Pat also covers the NC Cut, which automates cutting and optimizing DIN rail, and the Personal Wiring Assistant, which automates wire harness creation. He explains how Hoffman's Design to Manufacturing software allows panel shops to digitally design panels and automatically generate outputs for the automation equipment. By enabling faster training and reducing reliance on specialized workers, these solutions help panel shops address the labor shortage. Pat shares how integrating VR can further improve training. He emphasizes that automation is providing crucial labor savings but not eliminating jobs, as many workers are shifting into programming and technician roles. If you've enjoyed this conversation, leave a review and subscribe so you don't miss any future episodes. Hosted by CBM's own Vice President of Broadband, Tim Locker, Power the Network is bringing industry leaders to your feed every other week. One minute, you'll dive deep into products and innovative new processes. The next minute, you'll be learning timeless principles to equip you in your career. At CBM, we are powered by ownership, and we're bringing the same energy into podcasting with Power the Network.

For more information, connect with us at cbmrep.com/contact In this episode of Power of the Network, host Tim Locker interviews Jimmy Todd, CEO of Nex-Tech and industry leader. They discuss Jimmy's journey from wanting to be a doctor to serving in the Navy and finding his passion for technology. Jimmy took over as CEO of Nex-Tech 10 years ago and focused on learning the operations, culture and finances to determine how he could best support the strong team already in place. He believes in making changes and seeing the results rather than staying stagnant. Jimmy spends significant time advocating for legislation to get providers to contribute to infrastructure costs, especially in high-cost rural areas where streaming video is consuming more and more network capacity. He serves on multiple industry boards to stay engaged and influence positive changes. Jimmy enjoys continuous learning and self-improvement. He discusses the importance of taking concepts from training and implementing them into habits and processes. Jimmy stresses the significance of doing what's right for customers and communities through economic development, workforce training and more. He talks about the misperception that his frequent travel is glamorous when it's truly focused on participating in board meetings and advancing his mission. If you've enjoyed this conversation, leave a review and subscribe so you don't miss any future episodes. Hosted by CBM's own Vice President of Broadband, Tim Locker, Power the Network is bringing industry leaders to your feed every other week. One minute, you'll dive deep into products and innovative new processes. The next minute, you'll be learning timeless principles to equip you in your career. At CBM, we are powered by ownership, and we're bringing the same energy into podcasting with Power the Network.

For more information, connect with us at cbmrep.com/contact In this episode of Power the Network, host Tim Locker interviews Seth Thompson from Calix about how broadband providers can differentiate themselves in a competitive market where fiber internet is now commonplace. Seth discusses the importance of building relationships in sales, focusing on customer experience, developing solutions tailored to different user personas, and effective marketing and branding. He emphasizes creating packages that demonstrate value to subscribers based on how they use internet services. Seth also talks about the challenges in the broadband industry around finding skilled workers and contractors as well as navigating complex public and private funding processes. On a personal level, Seth shares insights on personal growth through reading and programs like Dale Carnegie training, maintaining fitness, and balancing priorities as life circumstances change. If you've enjoyed this conversation, leave a review and subscribe so you don't miss any future episodes. Hosted by CBM's own Vice President of Broadband, Tim Locker, Power the Network is bringing industry leaders to your feed every other week. One minute, you'll dive deep into products and innovative new processes. The next minute, you'll be learning timeless principles to equip you in your career. At CBM, we are powered by ownership, and we're bringing the same energy into podcasting with Power the Network.

For more information, connect with us at cbmrep.com/contact In this episode of Power the Network, we interview Richard Durfee, an account manager at CBM who has been with the company for nearly 9 years. Richard shares how he got into the industry, transitioning from construction work into sales, which initially made him apprehensive. He credits his mentors like Brett Cooper for helping guide him, as well as his coworkers who he can call on for assistance. Richard discusses the importance of building long-term relationships with customers, treating them like friends and family. He emphasizes being honest and not overpromising. Richard talks about the ESOP program at CBM which gives employees ownership stake, providing them flexibility and incentive to think about the company's long-term success. He stresses the unique collaborations they can do across divisions given the ESOP structure. Richard shares advice for new hires to reach out for help from coworkers, ask questions, and take time to develop in their role over 2-3 years. He highlights the great team at CBM which makes work enjoyable. Richard offers perspective on balancing work and family life on the road. He gives credit to his wife for her support and guidance through the years. The key message is building relationships, providing value and service that benefits all parties for the long haul. If you've enjoyed this conversation, leave a review and subscribe so you don't miss any future episodes. Hosted by CBM's own Vice President of Broadband, Tim Locker, Power the Network is bringing industry leaders to your feed every other week. One minute, you'll dive deep into products and innovative new processes. The next minute, you'll be learning timeless principles to equip you in your career. At CBM, we are powered by ownership, and we're bringing the same energy into podcasting with Power the Network.

For more information, connect with us at cbmrep.com/contact In this episode, Tim Locker interviews Jade Piros de Carvalho, director of the Kansas Office of Broadband Development. They discuss Jade's background and how she entered the broadband industry, coming from a marketing and communications role. She highlights the importance of broadband access as an "opportunity equalizer", especially in rural areas, and how the pandemic shed light on digital inequities.‍ Jade provides an overview of the federal BEAD (Broadband Equity Access and Deployment) program that is providing states with funding to expand broadband access. She explains how it is being administered differently than past federal programs, with more state and local involvement. They discuss some of the strings attached to the grants and how Kansas is moving quickly to distribute funding. Jade also talks about the Broadband Ready Communities program in Kansas that educates local governments on how to facilitate broadband investment. If you've enjoyed this conversation, leave a review and subscribe so you don't miss any future episodes. Hosted by CBM's own Vice President of Broadband, Tim Locker, Power the Network is bringing industry leaders to your feed every other week. One minute, you'll dive deep into products and innovative new processes. The next minute, you'll be learning timeless principles to equip you in your career. At CBM, we are powered by ownership, and we're bringing the same energy into podcasting with Power the Network.

For more information, connect with us at cbmrep.com/contact In this episode, Damien Robinson provides an insightful look at testing and diagnostics for utility networks. He shares valuable perspectives on making the transition into management and building a customer-focused, collaborative culture. Manufacturers and reps can learn a great deal from his experiences to strengthen partnerships and better serve customers together. If you've enjoyed this conversation, leave a comment and subscribe so you don't miss any future episodes. Hosted by CBM's own Vice President of Broadband, Tim Locker, Power the Network is bringing industry leaders to your feed every other week. One minute, you'll dive deep into products and innovative new processes. The next minute, you'll be learning timeless principles to equip you in your career. At CBM, we are powered by ownership, and we're bringing the same energy into podcasting with Power the Network.

For more information, connect with us at cbmrep.com/contact In this episode of Power the Network, host Tim Locker interviews Shawn Tafoya, a regional sales manager at Acuity Lighting, about the lighting industry and Acuity's solutions. They discuss the importance of lighting and how Acuity provides solutions across many sectors from residential to utilities. Shawn explains the benefits of transitioning to LED lighting, including 50% energy savings and reduced maintenance costs. He outlines the process of changing out old streetlights to LED fixtures and the factors municipalities must consider. If you've enjoyed this conversation, leave a comment and subscribe so you don't miss any future episodes. Hosted by CBM's own Vice President of Broadband, Tim Locker, Power the Network is bringing industry leaders to your feed every other week. One minute, you'll dive deep into products and innovative new processes. The next minute, you'll be learning timeless principles to equip you in your career. At CBM, we are powered by ownership, and we're bringing the same energy into podcasting with Power the Network.

For more information, connect with us at cbmrep.com/contact This is part two of Tim Locker's interview with Jason Johns, VP of Construction at Gateway Fiber. In this episode, Jason emphasizes the importance of transparency and honesty when dealing with partners and customers. He notes that finding the right employees who fit the company culture is more important than technical skills. Training field technicians to provide good customer service is critical since they represent the company directly to homeowners. Looking ahead, workforce shortages will challenge the industry's ability to meet infrastructure targets with new government funding. However, expanded fiber networks will bring huge benefits like remote work and schooling. The podcast covers relationship building, company culture, customer service, hiring practices, and future growth opportunities in the telecom industry. If you've enjoyed this conversation, be sure to subscribe so you don't miss any future episodes. Hosted by CBM's own Vice President of Broadband, Tim Locker, Power the Network is bringing industry leaders to your feed every other week. One minute, you'll dive deep into products and innovative new processes. The next minute, you'll be learning timeless principles to equip you in your career. At CBM, we are powered by ownership, and we're bringing the same energy into podcasting with Power the Network.

For more information, connect with us at cbmrep.com/contact In this episode of Power the Network, host Tim Locker interviews Jason Johns, Vice President of Construction at Gateway Fiber. Jason has over 22 years of experience in the telecommunications industry. He previously worked at Centurylink for 22 years before making the switch to Gateway Fiber about a year ago. Jason was attracted to Gateway Fiber because it is a smaller, growth-focused company with an aggressive build forecast. If you've enjoyed this conversation, be sure to subscribe so you don't miss any future episodes. Hosted by CBM's own Vice President of Broadband, Tim Locker, Power the Network is bringing industry leaders to your feed every other week. One minute, you'll dive deep into products and innovative new processes. The next minute, you'll be learning timeless principles to equip you in your career. At CBM, we are powered by ownership, and we're bringing the same energy into podcasting with Power the Network.

For more information, connect with us at cbmrep.com/contact In this episode of Power the Network, host Tim Locker interviews Heather Sethi Director of Channel for nVent Hoffman. They discuss nVent Hoffman's products, market strategy, and Heather's perspective on women in leadership roles. Heather provides an overview of nVent Hoffman, explaining that they are the global leader in electrical enclosures that connect, support and protect customer systems where failure costs are high. She emphasizes nVent Hoffman's commitment to quality over price. Heather shares how she worked her way up in the industry, starting in an entry level sales role at a manufacturer's rep and eventually landing her current Director position. She talks about the importance of relationships in distribution and stresses the need for truth, honesty and humility. Heather offers her perspective on bringing more women into leadership roles, noting it brings more diversity and new dynamics. She discusses the challenges of extensive business travel and finding work-life balance as a leader. Heather also shares her approach to time management, setting priorities and strategic thinking. If you've enjoyed this conversation, leave a comment and subscribe so you don't miss any future episodes. Hosted by CBM's own Vice President of Broadband, Tim Locker, Power the Network is bringing industry leaders to your feed every other week. One minute, you'll dive deep into products and innovative new processes. The next minute, you'll be learning timeless principles to equip you in your career. At CBM, we are powered by ownership, and we're bringing the same energy into podcasting with Power the Network.

For more information, connect with us at cbmrep.com/contact In this episode, Tim Locker and guest Chris Kurtz talk about changes and new technologies in the power utility industry. They talked about distributed energy resource management systems (DERMS), which help utilities manage multiple power generation sources like solar, wind, and traditional plants. DERMS determine the most cost-effective source at any time. They discussed how mergers help utilities achieve economies of scale in purchasing and operations, benefiting customers by keeping rates lower. Time of use rates encourage customers to shift high power usage away from peak demand times, reducing the need for expensive peaking power plants. The growth of fiber optics improves utilities' communication abilities. Chris shared his perspective shifting from working at a utility to being a manufacturer's rep, gaining an appreciation for responsive customer service. If you've enjoyed this conversation, leave a comment and subscribe so you don't miss any future episodes. Hosted by CBM's own Vice President of Broadband, Tim Locker, Power the Network is bringing industry leaders to your feed every other week. One minute, you'll dive deep into products and innovative new processes. The next minute, you'll be learning timeless principles to equip you in your career. At CBM, we are powered by ownership, and we're bringing the same energy into podcasting with Power the Network.

For more information, connect with us at cbmrep.com/contact Tim Locker interviews Chris Kurtz, a utility industry veteran who recently joined CBM, about trends and changes in the electric utility industry. They discuss the value of technical degrees versus hands-on experience for new utility workers, the transition away from coal towards renewable energy sources like wind and solar, and the challenges of implementing new technologies like electric vehicles, which require upgrades to the power grid. Chris provides perspective on striking a balance between rapidly adopting new innovations versus carefully vetting them over time. He highlights the need for utilities to invest in training the next generation of lineworkers to maintain and upgrade infrastructure. The conversation covers the complexities of modernizing the grid to enable sustainable power sources while maintaining reliability and cost-effectiveness for customers. If you've enjoyed this conversation, leave a comment and subscribe so you don't miss any future episodes. Hosted by CBM's own Vice President of Broadband, Tim Locker, Power the Network is bringing industry leaders to your feed every other week. One minute, you'll dive deep into products and innovative new processes. The next minute, you'll be learning timeless principles to equip you in your career. At CBM, we are powered by ownership, and we're bringing the same energy into podcasting with Power the Network.

For more information, connect with us at cbmrep.com/contact David Johnson from Dura-Line discussed MicroDuct technology and its benefits for fiber optic network builds. He explained how MicroDuct allows for high fiber count pathways while taking up less space than traditional conduit. It provides a scalable solution as additional microducts can be added in the future as needed. Dura-Line provides training through their Dura-Line Academy to install and utilize this technology properly. They partner with manufacturers and customers to supply complete microduct solutions. If you've enjoyed this conversation, leave a review and subscribe so you don't miss any future episodes. Hosted by CBM's own Vice President of Broadband, Tim Locker, Power the Network is bringing industry leaders to your feed every other week. One minute, you'll dive deep into products and innovative new processes. The next minute, you'll be learning timeless principles to equip you in your career. At CBM, we are powered by ownership, and we're bringing the same energy into podcasting with Power the Network.

For more information, connect with us at cbmrep.com/contact In this episode of Power the Network, host Tim Locker interviews John Kim, a battery expert with over 30 years of experience. They discuss the basics of how batteries work, the history of battery technology, lead acid vs lithium-ion batteries, and trends in the utility industry like electric vehicles and distributed energy resources (DERs). John provides perspective on the reliability and recyclability of lead acid batteries compared to lithium-ion. He also talks about how valve-regulated lead acid batteries like the ones made by EnerSys can save space in utility substation applications. If you've enjoyed this conversation, leave a review and subscribe so you don't miss any future episodes. Hosted by CBM's own Vice President of Broadband, Tim Locker, Power the Network is bringing industry leaders to your feed every other week. One minute, you'll dive deep into products and innovative new processes. The next minute, you'll be learning timeless principles to equip you in your career. At CBM, we are powered by ownership, and we're bringing the same energy into podcasting with Power the Network.

For more information, connect with us at cbmrep.com/contact In this episode, we sit down with Dan Levac, Senior New Business Development Manager at Preformed Line Products (PLP), to discuss what's happening in the broadband industry today. Dan walks us through the challenges the industry is facing and how PLP is strategizing for the next generation. Levac also shares incredible principles for any career, regardless of the industry. If you've enjoyed this conversation, leave a review and subscribe so you don't miss any future episodes. Hosted by CBM's own Vice President of Broadband, Tim Locker, Power the Network is bringing industry leaders to your feed every other week. One minute, you'll dive deep into products and innovative new processes. The next minute, you'll be learning timeless principles to equip you in your career. At CBM, we are powered by ownership, and we're bringing the same energy into podcasting with Power the Network.

For more information, connect with us at cbmrep.com/contact In this episode, we sit down with Dan Levac, Senior New Business Development Manager at Preformed Line Products (PLP), to discuss what's happening in the broadband industry today. Dan walks us through the challenges the industry is facing and how PLP is strategizing for the next generation. Levac also shares incredible principles for any career, regardless of the industry. If you've enjoyed this conversation, leave a review and subscribe so you don't miss part 2 of our conversation with Dan Levac. Hosted by CBM's own Vice President of Broadband, Tim Locker, Power the Network is bringing industry leaders to your feed every other week. One minute, you'll dive deep into products and innovative new processes. The next minute, you'll be learning timeless principles to equip you in your career. At CBM, we are powered by ownership, and we're bringing the same energy into podcasting with Power the Network.