In this episode of Beyond the Grid, host Swaroop George Kariath sits down with Erin Garritty and Noureen Syed to explore the intersection of AI, modern work, and the energy industry. Together, they dive into their career journeys, the role of technology in problem-solving, Microsoft’s unique value proposition, and the IBM–Microsoft partnership. The conversation also unpacks ethical considerations in AI, the challenges women face in tech, the power of networking, and what the future holds for AI-driven partnerships across industries.

Swaroop Kariath can be contacted at https://www.linkedin.com/in/swaroop-kariath/

Chapters00:00 Introduction to AI and Modern Work04:41 Career Journeys in Technology09:07 The Impact of AI on Leadership13:59 Ethics and Governance in AI18:36 AI's Role in the Energy Sector23:17 Cross-Industry Insights on AI28:13 Future Trends in AI and Technology33:04 Harnessing AI for Corporate Efficiency34:17 The Rise of Agentic Technology38:55 IBM and Microsoft's Strategic Partnership42:22 Women in Tech: Navigating Challenges55:41 Advice for Young Professionals01:00:40 Recommended Resources for Growth

Takeaways

AI has been a fascinating field for decades, evolving with technology.The impact of technology is both a shrinkage and expansion of the world.AI can help remove bias in decision-making processes.Ethical considerations around AI are still developing and need attention.Women in tech face unique challenges, including maternity leave impacts on careers.Networking should be intentional and purposeful for career growth.Visibility and networking are crucial for success in any industry.Career paths are not linear; gaining experience is key.AI can enhance operational efficiency across various sectors.Human connection remains irreplaceable in a technology-driven world.

In this episode, Swaroop George Kariath interviews Kirsten Eeuwes, an electrical engineer and manager of transmission asset management at Epcor. Kirsten shares her journey from studying engineering without a clear direction to finding her passion in the utilities sector. She discusses the challenges of asset management, the impact of load growth and electric vehicles on the power grid, and the importance of technology in the industry. Kirsten also highlights her involvement in workplace equity initiatives and the challenges faced by working mothers in engineering. The conversation emphasizes the critical role of utilities in daily life and the need for collaboration to improve the industry.

In this episode, Swaroop George Kariath interviews Kirsten Eeuwes, an electrical engineer and manager of transmission asset management at Epcor. Kirsten shares her journey from studying engineering without a clear direction to finding her passion in the utilities sector. She discusses the challenges of asset management, the impact of load growth and electric vehicles on the power grid, and the importance of technology in the industry. Kirsten also highlights her involvement in workplace equity initiatives and the challenges faced by working mothers in engineering. The conversation emphasizes the critical role of utilities in daily life and the need for collaboration to improve the industry.

Chapters
00:00 Podcast Intro
00:11 Introduction to Kirsten Eeuwes and Her Journey
06:13 Transition from Oil and Gas to Utilities
10:13 Challenges in Asset Management
15:36 Impact of Load Growth and EVs
19:15 Exploring Distributed Energy Resources
22:17 Technology's Role in Asset Management
29:54 Leveraging Technology for Maintenance Management
30:36 Championing Gender Equity in Engineering
32:44 Experiencing Challenges as a Woman in Engineering
37:52 Mentorship and Support for Young Female Engineers
39:26 Exploring Intersectionality in Diversity
41:14 Balancing Career and Family as a Working Mother
44:20 Navigating the Complexities of Work-Life Integration
46:40 The Importance of Utilities in Daily Life
52:43 Future Aspirations in the Utilities Sector

In this episode of Beyond the Grid, Swaroop George Kariath interviews Charles Vincent, a distinguished engineer and CTO for IBM's Global Energy and Utility Center of Excellence. They discuss Vincent's extensive career at IBM, his transition from gas to electric utilities, and the evolution of the smart grid concept. The conversation also delves into the challenges and innovations in metering technology, culminating in the rise of Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) in the early 2000s. In this conversation, Charles Vincent and Swaroop George Kariath discuss the evolution of the energy market, focusing on the impact of regulation, the role of California as a testing ground for energy innovations, and the lessons learned by Texas. They explore the advancements in smart meter technology and the integration of AI in the utility sector, highlighting the challenges and opportunities that arise from these changes. The discussion also touches on the comparative innovations in energy markets between the US and Europe, and the future of electric vehicles and renewable energy.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Beyond the Grid

01:12 Charles Vincent's Journey at IBM

04:44 Early Engagements in the Energy Sector

08:32 Transitioning to Utility Operations

13:49 The Evolution of the Smart Grid

18:24 The Role of Technology in the Grid

22:25 Understanding Meter Lifespan and Replacement

25:09 IBM's Approach to Smart Meter Development

27:20 The Rise of AMI Systems

38:11 Regulatory Changes and Market Dynamics

46:02 Lessons from California and Texas Energy Markets

47:48 Electric Vehicle Innovations and Market Differences

50:34 Deregulation and Innovation in Utilities

53:04 The Evolution of AMI and Metering Technologies

56:13 Electric Vehicles and Charging Networks

01:00:02 Regulatory Challenges in Electric Vehicle Infrastructure

01:03:37 The Future of Meter Data Management Systems

01:07:39 AI's Impact on the Utility Industry

Takeaways

Charles Vincent has nearly 40 years of experience at IBM.

His career began with a need for job security during his wife's pregnancy.

Vincent transitioned from gas to electric utilities, recognizing the potential for innovation.

The smart grid concept evolved from the need for better information exchange in utilities.

Early electric utilities were single load entities, which diversified over time.

The gas industry was slower to adopt technology due to financial constraints.

IBM played a significant role in the development of smart meters and AMI.

Challenges in deploying AMI included managing large volumes of data and communication technology.

The evolution of metering technology has been driven by the need for better efficiency and information.

In 2003, AMI technology saw significant adoption across the industry. Regulation has significantly influenced energy providers' operations.

California serves as a model for energy innovation and regulation.

The Texas energy market has learned from California's experiences.

Electric vehicles are becoming increasingly important in the energy landscape.

AI is being embraced by utilities to enhance operations and decision-making.

The average age of power engineers is rising, leading to a talent gap.

Utilities are exploring AI to address complex operational challenges.

The integration of smart meters is crucial for modern energy management.

California's energy market is a benchmark for other regions.

The utility industry plays a vital role in supporting communities.

In this episode of Beyond the Grid, host Swaroop George Kariath interviews Charles Vincent, a distinguished engineer and CTO for IBM's Global Energy and Utility Center of Excellence. Charles shares his nearly 40-year journey at IBM, detailing his transition from IT to the energy and utility sector, the evolution of the smart grid, and the challenges faced in metering technology. He emphasizes the importance of innovation and collaboration in driving advancements within the industry, particularly the rise of Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) and its impact on utility management. In this conversation, Charles Vincent and Swaroop George Kariath discuss the evolution of the energy sector, focusing on the impact of regulation, the role of California as a testing ground for energy innovations, and the lessons learned by Texas. They explore advancements in Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI), the integration of AI in utilities, and the challenges faced by the industry as it adapts to new technologies and changing workforce demographics. The discussion highlights the importance of customer engagement and the future of energy management in a rapidly evolving landscape.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Beyond the Grid

01:12 Charles Vincent's Journey at IBM

04:44 Early Engagements in the Energy Sector

08:32 Transitioning to Utility Operations

13:49 The Evolution of the Smart Grid

18:24 The Role of Technology in the Grid

22:25 Understanding Meter Lifespan and Replacement

25:09 IBM's Approach to Smart Meter Development

27:20 The Rise of AMI Systems

38:11 Regulatory Changes and Market Dynamics

46:02 Lessons from California and Texas Energy Markets

47:48 Electric Vehicle Innovations and Market Differences

50:34 Deregulation and Innovation in Utilities

53:04 The Evolution of AMI and Metering Technologies

56:13 Electric Vehicles and Charging Networks

01:00:02 Regulatory Challenges in Electric Vehicle Infrastructure

01:03:37 The Future of Meter Data Management Systems

01:07:39 AI's Impact on the Utility Industry

Takeaways

Charles Vincent has nearly 40 years of experience at IBM.

His career began with a need for job security during his wife's pregnancy.

Vincent transitioned from gas to electric utilities, recognizing the potential for innovation.

The smart grid concept evolved from the need for better information exchange in utilities.

Early electric utilities were single load entities, which diversified over time.

The gas industry was slower to adopt technology due to financial constraints.

IBM played a significant role in the development of smart meters and AMI.

Challenges in deploying AMI included managing large volumes of data and communication technology.

The evolution of metering technology has been driven by the need for better efficiency and information.

In 2003, AMI technology saw significant adoption across the industry. Regulation has significantly influenced energy providers' operations.

California serves as a model for energy innovation and regulation.

The Texas energy market has learned from California's experiences.

Electric vehicles are becoming increasingly important in the energy landscape.

AI is being embraced by utilities to enhance operations and decision-making.

The average age of power engineers is rising, leading to a talent gap.

Utilities are exploring AI to address complex operational challenges.

The integration of smart meters is crucial for modern energy management.

California's energy market is a benchmark for other regions.

The utility industry plays a vital role in supporting communities.

In our very first episode of Beyond the Grid, I sit down with Jason Doering, Vice President of Corporate Operational Services at ENMAX Power. We dive into the energy industry that has shaped both of our careers — its unsung heroes, the challenges, and the legacy it leaves behind.

On a more personal note, Jason shares his reflections as he prepares to retire at the age of 55. We explore what led to that decision, what it means to step away on your own terms, and what the next chapter might look like.

This episode is about more than just power — it’s about people, purpose, and pivotal transitions.

In our very first episode of Beyond the Grid, I sit down with Jason Doering, Vice President of Corporate Operational Services at ENMAX Power. We dive into the energy industry that has shaped both of our careers — its unsung heroes, the challenges, and the legacy it leaves behind.

On a more personal note, Jason shares his reflections as he prepares to retire at the age of 55. We explore what led to that decision, what it means to step away on your own terms, and what the next chapter might look like.

This episode is about more than just power — it’s about people, purpose, and pivotal transitions.