Think you know what it takes to keep the lights on? This conversation with Jason Atherton—SMECO’s longtime lineman-turned-trainer—might surprise you. From climbing poles to guiding the next generation, Jason shares what makes SMECO’s apprenticeship program more than just a training track—it’s a launchpad for real careers in Southern Maryland. With roots in farming, a passion for mentorship, and a program built to grow talent from the ground up (literally), this episode shines a light on the people behind the power, and the values SMECO is working to uphold in your community.

Ever wondered what it takes to bring the lights back on after a major storm? From Air Force discipline to leading storm operations for an electric co-op, Brian Lazarchick shares the intense coordination, safety-first mindset, and evolving technology behind large-scale outage restoration. You’ll hear how tree-trimming cycles, outage maps, and a committed team help reduce downtime—and why preparation starts long before the first raindrop falls. This conversation might just change how you see every utility pole on your street.

What if you could inspire the next generation, support struggling families, and uplift your entire community—just by showing up every day with purpose? That’s exactly what Natalie Cotton has done. In this conversation, we dive into Natalie’s unexpected rise through SMECO, from a job-hunting newcomer to the powerhouse behind its community engagement efforts. Learn how her team supports teachers, invests in students, and turns donations into real change. Trust us—you won’t look at your local utility the same way again.