Advertise on podcast: Power the Network

For more information, connect with us at cbmrep.com/contact Data center construction is reshaping demand for the enclosures, skids, and grid infrastructure that keep critical equipment running. Discover how a Kansas metal fabricator nearly tripled its workforce to meet that moment without losing the customers who built it. In this episode of Power the Network, host Tim Locker sits down with Nicole Dickey, Vice President of Customer Relations at PTMW, to discuss how a metal fabricator that got its start building railroad enclosures in 1983 became a go-to engineered solutions provider for data centers, substations, and power distribution. Nicole walks through PTMW's five-year expansion under owner Ashley Betis — 100,000 square feet of added manufacturing space and new fabrication equipment in Topeka, plus a new plant in Manhattan, Kansas — and explains why redundancy, access to a second labor pool, and dedicated lines for equipment skids mattered so much to their largest customers. She also unpacks the integrator partnerships, state certification timelines, and pre-construction modular approach that save customers time and money in the field. Then the conversation turns to people: what college volleyball taught her about work ethic, direct communication, and getting the locker room right, plus how PTMW pays employees for process improvement ideas from the production floor. Whether you're a manufacturer scaling through a growth period or a leader trying to build a team that trusts each other, this episode delivers practical takeaways. It's a candid look at what it takes to grow fast and stay grounded. 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 AI server farms are asking utilities for gigawatts of power on timelines the grid was never built to meet. Discover how transmission investment, battery storage, and smarter substations are reshaping the electric utility industry — and what it takes to keep up. In this episode of Power the Network, host Tim Locker sits down with Chris Kurtz of CBM to discuss the real state of the U.S. power grid and the forces reshaping it. Returning for his third appearance, Chris explains why the grid remains dependable even as resiliency work continues, what actually causes rolling blackouts, and why transmission — not generation — has been the long-standing bottleneck. He breaks down how AI data centers are driving unprecedented transmission investment, delaying coal plant retirements, and prompting new generation, while supply chains for large transformers and switchgear stretch five to six years. Chris also looks ahead to touchless "smart" substations and capacitance-based battery technology, then shares lessons from 43 years in the industry: moving from a Fortune 500 utility to a 100% employee-owned rep firm, the value of an ESOP, and why relationships and honesty matter more than selling. Whether you're a utility engineer, a manufacturer's rep, or a sales leader building customer trust, this episode delivers practical perspective. It's a candid look at where the grid is headed over the next decade and beyond. 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 Great products don't sell themselves — people, partnerships, and the right questions do. Discover how a career built on listening, humility, and showing up translates into a smarter route to market and a stronger energy infrastructure. In this episode of Power the Network, host Tim Locker sits down with John Gagge, Vice President of Business Development, Network Infrastructure Solutions at EnerSys, to discuss the core values that shape his leadership, the craft of public speaking, and the sales habits that separate good reps from great ones. John shares the five personal beliefs he wrote down years ago — from finding humor to making a difference — and explains why treating everyone as a person is a competitive advantage in any industry. He digs into the best sales advice he's received: ask for the order, ask about share of wallet, and listen more than you talk, illustrated by a casual conversation with a UPS OEM that sparked an entirely new battery product. Tim and John also break down EnerSys's three-legged route to market — direct sales, OEMs and end users, and manufacturer's reps and VARs — and why no manufacturer should expect 100% of a partner's mind share. Whether you're a sales leader, a network operator, or an engineer, this episode offers practical lessons on relationships, packaged solutions, and proactive sales enablement. John closes with why aging grid infrastructure, returning U.S. manufacturing, and growing energy demand make the next three to five years a genuine growth story. 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 Discover how EnerSys is powering the AI data center boom with next-generation battery solutions built for speed, resilience, and scale. Learn why lead-acid technology is far from dead — and how the right power strategy protects mission-critical infrastructure. In this episode of Power of the Network, host Tim Locker sits down with John Gagge, Vice President of Business Development for Network Infrastructure Solutions at EnerSys, to discuss the rapidly evolving world of backup power and battery technology. With over 30 years at EnerSys spanning engineering, operations, and leadership roles, John shares his expert insights on the surging demand for data center power solutions, the launch of EnerSys's new NOIR lithium battery line, and the critical difference between clean and "dirty" power in high-density computing environments. This wide-ranging conversation covers everything from power smoothing and predictive maintenance to the ongoing debate between lead-acid and lithium chemistries, plus a look inside EnerSys's new lithium-ion plant supporting U.S. defense and drone applications. Whether you're an industry professional navigating data center infrastructure or simply curious about what keeps the digital world running, this conversation offers an honest, experience-driven look at the technology behind reliable power. Learn how EnerSys is combining decades of battery expertise with new innovation to meet the demands of AI, hyperscale data centers, and mission-critical networks. 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 ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Discover how Hometown Internet is revolutionizing rural broadband by tackling the toughest terrain in the Ozarks. Learn the secrets behind successful fiber-to-the-home expansion. In this episode of Power of the Network, host Tim Locker sits down with Chris Harness, COO of Hometown Internet, to discuss the ambitious expansion of fiber-optic infrastructure in rural Arkansas and Missouri. With a background spanning decades in telecom construction, Chris shares his expert insights on navigating complex environmental hurdles, managing BEAD funding projects, and overcoming the unique challenges of building in rocky Ozark terrain. This deep dive into fiber deployment covers everything from the nuances of 'make ready' pole work to the importance of building a strong, local workforce. Whether you are an industry professional interested in ISP growth strategies or a community member curious about the future of high-speed connectivity, this conversation provides an honest look at the state of broadband today. Learn how Hometown Internet is prioritizing local growth to bridge the digital divide, providing essential services to underserved regions, and fostering long-term community development through reliable, high-speed fiber internet. 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 ⁠⁠⁠ Discover how the ESOP business model drives growth and employee retention in the competitive construction industry. Learn top leadership strategies. In this episode of Power of the Network, host Tim Locker sits down with Tyler Wesselman, President of MegaKC, to discuss the transformative power of Employee Stock Ownership Plans (ESOPs) in the construction sector. Tyler shares his journey from an intern to leading a 100% employee-owned firm in Kansas City. This conversation dives deep into construction management, the importance of strategic organizational structuring, and how to cultivate a high-performance culture by focusing on employee strengths rather than weaknesses. Viewers will gain actionable insights on how to build infrastructure for sustainable growth, handle complex succession planning, and navigate the unique challenges of non-union merit shops. Whether you are a business leader, construction professional, or interested in the mechanics of ESOPs, this discussion provides a blueprint for creating long-term value, financial freedom, and a legacy-driven company culture. Learn how aligning people with their strengths can overcome business plateaus and foster a team that acts like owners every single day. 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 ⁠⁠ Ever wondered how to excel in broadband sales? Discover how former utility manager Eric Lage transitioned to a key role at PLP. In this episode of Power of the Network, host Tim Locker sits down with Eric Lage, the new regional manager at Preformed Line Products (PLP), to discuss his unique career trajectory from being a utility operator to a manufacturing leader. This conversation offers a rare look at the broadband industry from both sides of the table. Eric shares valuable lessons on leadership, the importance of operational autonomy, and how sales professionals can better serve utility providers by understanding their unique technical needs. Whether you are in municipal utility management, outside plant engineering, or technical sales, you will gain actionable advice on how to build trust, navigate complex infrastructure projects, and improve your approach to consultative selling. The episode also highlights the current challenges of managing network projects, the impact of BEAD funding on future deployments, and why a 'servant leadership' model is critical to long-term success. Tune in to learn how to effectively bridge the gap between technical operations and sales success in the evolving telecommunications landscape. 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 Discover the strategy behind sustaining a successful family-owned broadband business across four generations. Learn how to balance long-term legacy with rapid innovation. In this insightful episode of Power of the Network, host Tim Locker sits down with Ben Foster, leader of the fourth-generation family-owned company, Twin Valley. Ben shares his unique journey, from gaining essential experience at a non-family company to returning home to drive growth and community impact. This interview dives deep into the challenges of maintaining culture across generations, the strategic importance of values-based leadership, and the complexities of mergers and acquisitions in the telecommunications industry. We also touch upon Ben's recent appointment to the board for the NTCA and his vision for the future of rural broadband in the age of AI and shifting regulatory landscapes. Whether you are a business leader looking to scale, a professional in the telecom sector, or interested in the nuances of family-owned enterprises, this conversation provides a blueprint for building a business that is truly built to last. Learn how Twin Valley navigates competition, utilizes the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS), and fosters deep community ties to ensure long-term, sustainable success. 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 Scaling a fiber broadband network in a competitive market isn't easy. Discover how Gateway Fiber navigates growth, supply chains, and infrastructure hurdles. In this insightful episode of Power the Network, host Tim Locker sits down with Jason Johns, VP of Network Development at Gateway Fiber, to discuss the rapid evolution of the fiber broadband industry. Two years after his last appearance, Jason provides an inside look at the challenges and triumphs of managing massive scaling efforts across multiple states. From navigating global supply chain pressure to implementing fiber-first expansion strategies, this conversation covers the operational realities of building modern connectivity in a crowded marketplace. They also explore the complexities of municipal permitting, the importance of robust customer-centric service models, and the evolving role of government grants like BEAD. Whether you are a telecom professional, infrastructure stakeholder, or industry enthusiast, this episode delivers actionable insights into the future of network development, the importance of long-term vendor partnerships, and the secrets to fostering a healthy corporate culture in a high-growth environment. Join us as we examine what it takes to build a network that truly serves the customer while staying agile and profitable. 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 Discover how AI and modern CRM tools like RepFabric can revolutionize your manufacturer's rep firm. Optimize your sales performance today. In this insightful episode of Power of the Network, host Tim Logger sits down with John Mitchell, the creator of RepFabric, to explore how advanced technology and CRM systems are reshaping the landscape for manufacturer representatives. As sales teams face increasing pressure to balance administrative tasks with building meaningful relationships, this conversation provides a deep dive into the practical application of generative AI, vector databases, and, perhaps most importantly, the enduring need for 'human-in-the-loop' oversight. Discover how to effectively manage sales performance, set clear behavioral goals, and navigate the complex, multi-tier distribution networks common in the building and construction industries. Whether you are a seasoned sales veteran or a leader looking to modernize your agency's operations, John shares actionable insights on account research, territory planning, and fostering a culture of accountability. Learn how to leverage data-driven metrics to drive efficiency, improve your sales funnel, and empower your team to focus on high-impact opportunities that lead to long-term growth. 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 Struggling to manage rep firm data? Discover how specialized CRM tools and AI are revolutionizing daily efficiency for manufacturing representatives. In this episode of Power of the Network, host Tim Loger sits down with John Mitchell, the creator of Rep Fabric, to discuss the specific challenges faced by manufacturers' rep firms. If you are a sales professional or a rep firm owner dealing with fragmented data silos, commission management, or inefficient reporting, this conversation is for you. John shares his journey from working at Accenture to building an all-in-one 'nervous system' designed specifically for the unique needs of the rep industry. We dive deep into how to move away from administrative tasks to focus on high-value sales relationships. You will learn practical strategies for cleaning up bad data, implementing AI to streamline post-call recaps, and why nurturing trusted relationships remains the most important part of your business. Whether you are looking to adopt a new CRM or need to optimize your current workflow to stay competitive in an increasingly data-driven environment, you will find actionable insights to help your team perform at its peak. 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 Are you tired of transactional selling? Discover the secrets to professional sales training and becoming a top-tier manufacturer representative. In this episode of Power of the Network, host Tim Locker sits down with veteran sales coach Frank Foster. With over 30 years of experience, Frank explores how to shift from basic transactional selling to a model focused on consultative discovery and building long-term relationships. Whether you are in the CPG industry, working as a manufacturer's rep, or looking to improve your inside sales team's effectiveness, this interview offers actionable strategies for professional growth. We discuss the importance of full-line selling, why asking the right discovery questions is the key to unlocking hidden buyer motivations, and how to effectively navigate the 'stress sandwich' of manufacturer, rep, and customer relationships. Learn why certifications like CPSC and CPMR are becoming industry standards for professional advancement, how to leverage inside sales for maximum productivity, and why trust remains the ultimate currency in modern sales. Perfect for sales professionals, students of the industry, and anyone looking to refine their approach to closing deals and managing complex accounts in today’s competitive market environment. 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 Master the art of solution selling and explore the industrial world of signaling and lighting. Learn actionable sales strategies from industry experts. In this episode of Power of the Network, host Tim Locker sits down with Tom Forshee, a regional sales manager at Federal Signal, to pull back the curtain on the world of industrial signaling and high-impact sales. Whether you are a professional in the electrical industry or looking to sharpen your sales techniques, this conversation offers invaluable insights into consultative selling, building long-term customer relationships, and managing complex territories. Tom shares his unconventional journey from interior design and lighting to becoming an expert in industrial beacons and warning systems. We dive deep into the differences between transactional sales and value-added solutions, how to effectively manage rep relationships without direct authority, and the importance of maintaining a balance between prospecting and respecting the customer’s time. With over 125 years of history, Federal Signal’s evolution provides a fascinating case study on adapting to market demands in the petrochemical, manufacturing, and industrial sectors. Join us as we discuss how to stay top-of-mind with partners and why the 'last guy in' often wins the deal. 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 Discover how independent telcos are bridging the digital divide through robust broadband infrastructure and community-focused service. Join us as we explore the future of connectivity with Green Hills Communications. ‍In this episode of Power of the Network, host Tim Locker sits down with Chris Shoe, Plant Operations Manager at Green Hills Communications, to discuss the evolving landscape of rural internet service. As the industry faces critical challenges—from BEAD funding delays to the increasing demand for high-speed fiber-to-the-home (FTTH) networks—Green Hills shares their unique approach to balancing subscriber needs with long-term infrastructure health. We dive deep into the cooperative mindset that makes rural communications essential and examine why 'building it right the first time' is the ultimate strategy for operational success. Whether you are a fellow operator, a contractor navigating the complexities of fiber deployment, or simply interested in how small towns are gaining big-city speeds, this conversation provides essential insights. Learn about the shift toward micro-ditch technology, the importance of future-proofing network designs, and how local providers are navigating the political landscape to bring reliable digital access to underserved communities across Missouri and beyond. 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 Ever wondered how your streetlights are secretly powering smart city technology? Join us as we dive into the evolution of intelligent lighting. In this episode of Power of the Network, host Tim Locker sits down with Matt Webster, Vice President of Utility Channel Sales for Acuity Brands, to explore the rapidly changing world of outdoor utility lighting. Beyond simple illumination, Acuity Brands is transforming streetlights into hubs for data collection, environmental monitoring, and asset management. We discuss the critical shift from traditional HID to high-efficiency LED technology, the integration of AI into utility operations, and how modern fixtures are evolving to host advanced sensing capabilities like pedestrian counting and emergency detection. This deep dive into the lighting industry also touches upon the vital role of manufacturer-rep partnerships, the importance of long-term customer relationships, and how Acuity navigated product challenges with integrity. Whether you are a utility professional, an engineer, or someone curious about the infrastructure of our smart cities, this conversation reveals the hidden complexity behind the lights that guide our streets. Learn how Acuity Brands is continuing to empower spaces through innovation and leadership in the utility sector. 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.