In this episode of the Building Blocks Podcast, host Brad Coleman sits down with Andy Shingledecker, a Quality Control Engineer deeply rooted in the pipeline industry. Andy shares his unique career journey from welding pipelines to his current role in emissions control, highlighting the pivotal moments, challenges, and lessons learned along the way. This episode delves into the intricacies of the natural gas industry, leadership development, and the evolving landscape of energy production and environmental consciousness.

Key Topics Discussed:

1. Introduction to the Building Blocks Podcast

• Host Brad Coleman introduces the podcast, focusing on career paths and leadership in the energy utility and construction fields.
• Emphasis on understanding habits, routines, and mindsets of successful industry leaders.

1. Guest Introduction: Andy Shingledecker

• Andy's background and introduction to the pipeline industry through family ties.
• His career progression from welding to quality control and emissions management.

1. The Pipeline Industry and Career Path

• Insights into the small, interconnected world of pipeline work.
• Andy’s transition from fieldwork to management and the importance of self-awareness in career development.

1. Environmental Impact and Emissions Control

• Discussion on methane mitigation and the environmental aspects of natural gas production.
• Andy's role in ZVAC and the technology used to prevent venting and flaring of natural gas.

1. Leadership and Knowledge Transfer

• The importance of mentoring and knowledge transfer in the industry.
• Challenges and strategies for integrating younger generations into the workforce.

1. Balancing Tradition and Innovation

• The need for a mix of experienced field knowledge and modern technological skills.
• Examples of successful mentorship and the dual-directional benefit of mentoring relationships.

1. Industry Trends and Future Outlook

• The evolving natural gas ecosystem and its role in the future of energy.
• The impact of technological advancements and the importance of environmental consciousness.

Key Takeaways:

• The significance of self-awareness and adaptability in career development.
• The value of mentorship and knowledge transfer in fostering industry growth and innovation.
• The critical role of environmental sustainability in the future of the natural gas industry.

Connect with Us:

• Host: Brad Coleman - Find Brad on LinkedIn for more insights and updates on the podcast.
• Guest: Andy Shingledecker - Connect with Andy on LinkedIn to continue the conversation and explore his work in emissions control.

Call to Action: If you found value in this episode, please leave us a review and reach out to Brad Coleman on LinkedIn with your thoughts and feedback. If you know someone who would be a great guest for our show, let us know! We are always looking to connect with industry leaders and share their stories.

Episode Summary: In this episode, we are joined by Steve, a seasoned professional from Washington Gas, who also founded the Pipeline Safety Management Systems (PSMS) Group. Steve shares his extensive experience in safety and quality management, discussing his career progression and the pivotal moments that shaped his journey. We explore the importance of continuous improvement, the role of leadership at all levels, and the impact of AI and technology in the industry.

Key Discussion Points:

1. Steve’s Career Journey:

• Transition from Homeland Security to Washington Gas.
• Roles in occupational safety and quality management.
• Founding the PSMS Group on LinkedIn.

1. PSMS Group Insights:

• Purpose and growth of the PSMS LinkedIn group.
• Importance of engaging all levels of the industry, from field crews to executives.
• Channels for education and engagement within the group.

1. Leadership and Continuous Improvement:

• The value of continuous improvement and quality management systems.
• Importance of buy-in from all organizational levels for successful implementation.
• Creating value and finding champions within the organization.

1. AI and Technology in Utilities:

• Steve’s personal exploration of AI tools and their potential applications.
• The cautious approach of organizations towards adopting AI due to security concerns.
• The future of AI in enhancing efficiency and decision-making in the industry.

1. Career Advice and Personal Growth:

• Taking ownership and responsibility for outcomes.
• The importance of connecting with people and breaking down silos.
• Protecting and enhancing one’s professional reputation beyond organizational walls.

Quotes:

• "You can lead from anywhere in the organization and make a difference."
• "Taking ownership means constantly evaluating what more you could have done to achieve a better outcome."
• "The future of AI in our industry is promising, but we need to be mindful of security and data integrity."

Connect with Us:

• Brad Coleman on LinkedIn: LinkedIn Profile
• Steve on LinkedIn: LinkedIn Profile
• Join the PSMS LinkedIn Group: PSMS Group

Guest: Nathan Henson, Vice President of Business Operations, Energy Worldnet

Introduction:

• Welcome to the Building Blocks Podcast, hosted by Brad Coleman.
• The podcast explores career paths and leadership habits in the energy, utility, and construction fields.
• Brad's goal is to identify common traits of successful leaders to provide listeners with the tools needed for their own success.

Episode Summary: In this episode, Brad Coleman interviews Nathan Henson, Vice President of Business Operations at Energy Worldnet. Nathan shares his career journey, insights into the software industry, and the importance of understanding one's strengths and leveraging them for personal and professional growth.

Key Discussion Points:

1. Nathan Henson’s Background:

• Nathan has been in the software as a service (SaaS) industry for nearly 15 years.
• He transitioned from a potential career in veterinary medicine to business and software.
• Experience with various roles in customer service, product management, and account management.

1. Career Journey and Learning:

• Nathan emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and staying in roles where growth is possible.
• He shares how his roles evolved within organizations and the significance of understanding customer needs and software functionality.
• Transition to product management and the impact of bridging analytical skills with company needs.

1. Personal Growth and Self-awareness:

• Discussion on the value of self-awareness and identifying personal strengths and weaknesses.
• The role of CliftonStrengths in understanding and leveraging individual strengths.
• Nathan’s approach to career decisions, focusing on learning and alignment with core values.

1. Organizational Growth and Opportunities:

• Nathan's journey at Energy Worldnet, including roles in business analysis, product management, and leading a project management office (PMO).
• The importance of creating consistent project management approaches and metrics.
• Transition to leading multiple teams within the business operations unit.

1. Adopting EOS (Entrepreneurial Operating System):

• Implementation of EOS at Energy Worldnet to align the organization with common goals and vision.
• The role of leadership and management in driving accountability and growth.
• Importance of communication and the 555 framework for coaching and employee development.

1. Generational Differences and Technology Integration:

• The impact of having multiple generations in the workplace and the lessons each can teach.
• Emphasis on the younger generation’s proficiency with technology and its integration into work processes.
• Nathan's perspective on the value of remote work and maintaining effective communication.

Closing Remarks:

• Nathan shares his thoughts on being vulnerable, making decisions, and the importance of adding value in any role.
• He highlights the significance of leadership in nurturing growth and the evolving work environment.

Connect with Nathan Henson:

• LinkedIn: Nathan Henson

Call to Action:

• Brad encourages listeners to reach out on LinkedIn with feedback and suggestions for future interviews.
• Listeners are invited to leave a review and connect with Brad and other guests on LinkedIn for ongoing discussions about leadership and career growth.