Ever wondered why your electric bill spikes in summer and winter?

In this episode, Smeco’s VP of Rates and Energy Procurement Eugene Bradford pulls back the curtain on how your monthly bill is built—from competitive power market purchases to the poles and wires that deliver electricity to your door. He walks us through load forecasting, rate classes, and the rising costs driven by renewables mandates and the push for future battery storage.

Key Takeaways:

• How Smeco’s power procurement strategy keeps your supply costs as low as possible
• Why distribution infrastructure rates cover poles, transformers, and grid maintenance
• The impact of renewable portfolio standards and what long-duration storage means for 24/7 green power

Join us to demystify your electric bill and spark your energy awareness.

Guest:
Eugene Bradford
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eugene-bradford-87992666

Hosts:
Sonja Cox & Tom Dennison
Smeco Social Media:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/somdelectric
X (Twitter): https://x.com/somdelectric

What does it take to climb a 40-foot pole in record time — with your reputation (and bragging rights) on the line?

In this episode of SMECO Connects, host Sonja Cox and co-host Tom Dennison sit down with linemen John King, Doug Hancock, and apprentices Cameron Russell and Josh Morris. Together, they pull back the curtain on the electrifying world of the Lineman’s Rodeo — a high-stakes competition where skill, speed, and safety collide.

• Discover the heart-pounding events like Hurt Man Rescue and obstacle climbs
  
  

• Learn how camaraderie and a brotherhood of linemen fuel both competition and real-life mutual aid during storms
  
  

• Hear why apprentices keep coming back, even after tough first years
  
  

• Peek behind the scenes at traditions like t-shirt swapping and the competitive BBQ showdown
  
  

From tales of climbing techniques to stories of lifelong friendships formed under high voltage, this episode is a tribute to the grit, pride, and passion that power our electric grid.

Tune in and feel the spark that keeps the lights on — and the linemen climbing.

🔗 Smeco Instagram: @somdelectric
🔗 Smeco X (Twitter): @somdelectric

Hosted by Sonja Cox and Tom Dennison

What happens when a cybersecurity pro leaves a federal career to build a construction company from the ground up—with zero industry experience?

Meet Allison Drury, CEO of CAD Industries, a woman-owned underground utility business shaking up a male-dominated field. From buying her first drill after landing the job to leading complex projects for the National Zoo and regional governments, Allison proves that grit, mindset, and relentless drive can beat credentials any day.

In this episode, Allison opens up about:

• Taking the leap from government GS-14 to entrepreneur
  
  

• Building credibility as a woman in construction
  
  

• Balancing family, leadership, and risk in real-time
  
  

• Growing a regional business with national brand ambitions
  
  

Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, working parent, or just need a reminder that it’s possible—this one’s for you.

🎧 Follow SMECO:
Instagram: @somdelectric
X (Twitter): @somdelectric