The electrical workforce is changing – and benefits, training, and leadership are being tested in real time. Luke Kuhl, Executive Chairman of the Twin Cities Chapter of NECA, shares frontline insights on how contractors are navigating AI-driven demand, data center expansion, wage pressure, and the growing need for specialized talent.

The conversation also explores why strong leadership (not just new technology) will determine who thrives, and what these shifts mean for small contractors, union members, and the future of fringe benefits in the trades.

Tune in to this episode as we explore:

(00:50) Luke Kuhl’s work at NECA

(04:46) Rising costs and market consolidation

(08:14) Future workforce needs in data centers

(13:41) Contractor roles and union politics

(17:12) Small contractors struggling to compete

(22:59) The future of computing and energy

(26:36) Challenges facing unionized electrical contractors

(27:43) Uncertainty in a union electrician's career

(32:50) Standardization challenges in the electrical code

(36:18) The future of fault-managed power

(38:08) AI’s ripple effect on innovation

(43:24) Innovation among large contractors

Links mentioned in the episode:

Twin Cities NECA

Luke Kuhl’s LinkedIn

Planet Money: What AI Data Centers Are Doing to Your Electric Bill

https://www.npr.org/2025/12/19/nx-s1-5649814/ai-data-center-electricity-bill

Smart Talks w/ IBM: Creating Smarter Business with AI and Quantum

https://www.ibm.com/think/podcasts/smart-talks/creating-smarter-business-with-ai-and-quantum?act2

Luke Recommended Best Podcast for Understanding Data Centers:

Step Change: Data Centers - The Hidden Backbone of Our Modern World

https://www.stepchange.show/data-centers

Luke Recommended Best Company-Focused Discussion of AI and Data Centers:

Acquired: Google - The AI Company

https://www.acquired.fm/episodes/google-the-ai-company

Have feedback or guest ideas? Email us at onthefringe@corelliansoft.com

Learn more at www.eprlive.com

Brandon Padget and Paul Ranisate from Union Bank & Trust – a unique, 100% labor-owned financial institution – unpack the often-overlooked risks and rising costs associated with issuing paper checks. They explain why now is the time for unions, contractors, and fund administrators to transition to secure electronic payments.

You’ll hear first-hand accounts of check fraud, real-world examples of lost or delayed funds, and actionable guidance on how to modernize your payment workflows.

Tune in to this episode as we explore:

(01:07) Labor-owned Union Bank & Trust overview

(05:29) Challenges of check fraud

(07:38) Check fraud and client procedures

(10:05) Cost comparison: digital vs checks

(15:42) Bank losses and Fed follow-up

(18:43) Building trust through client education

(20:43) Modernizing payment approval processes

(24:58) Connect with your banker

(28:14) The end of paper checks

(30:08) Bank’s role: support and guidance

Links mentioned in the episode:

Union Bank & Trust

Have feedback or guest ideas? Email us at onthefringe@corelliansoft.com

Learn more at www.eprlive.com

We’re coming to you from the NECA Convention in Chicago, capturing real-time insights from those shaping the future of electrical construction. In today’s episode, you’ll hear directly from chapter leaders, contractors, trainers, and technology trailblazers as they reflect on what drives them, the challenges they’re navigating, and the lessons learned on the front lines.

From workforce shortages to the accelerating impact of technology and AI, our conversations dive into the critical issues affecting union contractors and their teams. We discuss the importance of contract awareness, staying adaptable in a rapidly evolving landscape, and the day-to-day realities of building a sustainable career in this industry.

Tune in to this episode as we explore:

(00:13) Challenges, lessons and opportunities in the industry

(06:19) Evolving challenges in the electrical industry

(09:12) Learning, AI and teamwork

(13:23) Workforce challenges and growth insights

(16:55) Embracing AI and technology early

(20:01) Adapting to industry uncertainty

(22:08) How AI is transforming service construction

(25:38) Labour challenges and industry impact

Links mentioned in the episode:

NECA 2025 Chicago

Have feedback or guest ideas? Email us at onthefringe@corelliansoft.com

Learn more at www.eprlive.com