In this special episode of The Callout Podcast, the focus is on service, leadership, and why the power utility industry is one of the most meaningful and stable career paths for Veterans and skilled workers alike.

We are joined by co-host Ted Carter, President of The Ohio State University and retired U.S. Navy Admiral, and special guests Tracy Hawks of Asplundh and a U.S. Navy & Army Veteran, and Veteran linemen Paul Kaylor and Jason Novak with Ameren Illinois.

Ted Carter, President of The Ohio State University and retired U.S. Navy Admiral, who co-hosts the episode and brings a national perspective on energy infrastructure, workforce demand, and Veteran transition. With nearly four decades in uniform spanning naval aviation, nuclear power, and senior command, Ted shares why linemen are among America’s unsung heroes and why the future of the grid depends on disciplined, mission-driven people.

Tracy Hawks, a Navy and Army Veteran and Director of Training at Asplundh, walks through his unconventional path from military service to vegetation management, safety, and nationwide training leadership. Tracy explains why line work offers long-term stability, strong pay progression, and the same camaraderie that Veterans miss after leaving the military.

Paul Kaylor and Jason Novak, Veteran linemen with Ameren Illinois, share what life in the trade really looks like, from on-call storm response and long hours to the pride of restoring power when communities need it most.

• Paul opens up about his daughter Juliana’s battle with terminal brain cancer and how that journey inspired the creation of Climbing For Kids, a lineman-led initiative that raises funds for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

• Jason shares how the program grew from a simple idea into a national movement within the lineman community, including major impact at the International Lineman’s Rodeo.

Together, the group explores:

• Why Veterans are a natural fit for line work and utility careers

• The massive workforce gap created by retirements and rising energy demand

• How apprenticeship programs, GI Bill benefits, and climbing schools create real pathways into the trade

• The physical, mental, and family realities of working on the front lines of power restoration

• How community, purpose, and service continue long after the uniform comes off

This episode is both a call to action and a tribute to the men and women who keep the lights on. For Veterans searching for purpose, stability, and brotherhood, power utilities are not just a job, they are a home.