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Large Utility Joint Use Project

Joint Use Services

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In December 2022, TechServ was awarded a joint use project with a large, national utility company to:

  • Analyze, standardize, and streamline permit execution processes across the client’s four distinct business units
  • Deploy the TechServ proprietary joint-use maintenance platform to support the standardized permit execution process, including working with the client to gather requirements, enhance the platform to fit client requirements, and train the client on how to use and read metrics created by the platform

Result

New permit execution process enabled an increase in permit poles and reduced the client’s backlog by over 70%.

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3258 Earl Campbell Pkwy, Tyler, TX 75701

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Gentry Millar

Chief Financial Officer

Gentry Millar is Chief Financial Officer, responsible for overseeing and managing the organization’s Finance, Accounting, and Information Technology (IT) departments. He brings extensive experience in Finance, Operations, and IT, having worked directly with executive leadership and led cross-functional teams on large, strategic projects as both a Management Consultant and a Finance Leader.

Mr. Millar’s expertise includes interim finance leadership, financial planning & analysis, data analytics, merger integration, software implementation, and business performance improvement. His background spans publicly traded, private equity-backed, and venture-backed companies across a variety of industries, including oil & gas, industrial services, power generation, veterinary care, healthcare, and home services.

Prior to joining TechServ, Mr. Millar served as Managing Director of his consulting firm, Elmore Douglas, which he founded in 2019. He holds a bachelor’s degree in economics from the College of Charleston and a master’s degree in accounting from the University of Texas at Austin.

His strong interpersonal, analytical, and organizational skills, combined with a passion for solving complex problems and achieving collective success, make him an asset to our leadership team.

Winter storm Uri

In 2021, much of the southern United States was affected by Winter Storm Uri. In the midst of distress TechServ mobilized resources to support affected regions by:

  • Working with resilience, efficiency, and professionalism to respond to electric utility problems that posed safety and reliability concerns across several states
  • Deploying teams and equipment to affected regions
  • Coordinating over 150 damage assessment teams and more than 320 personnel, including drivers, wire down guards, staging site coordinators, logistic teams, and storm managers

Result

TechServ’s exemplary response to this crisis shows our commitment to safety, efficiency, and reliability in delivering damage assessment services. TechServ remains poised to address future challenges and support communities in times of need.

Construction compliance
and monitoring

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Krum, Texas

TechServ provided Quality Assurance & Quality Control Representatives who:

  • Ensured project was completed according to prints issued in a safe, efficient manner
  • Verified testing on all electrical equipment including Doble, Megger, and Continuity
  • Overcame rain, muddy conditions, and missing parts and equipment

Result

Project completed correctly and on time by March 28, 2024.

Large Utility joint use project

aep-case-study-tree-photo-1-(1)
aep-case-study-pole-measure-snow-(1)
aep-case-study-pole-(1)

In December 2022, TechServ was awarded a Joint Use project with a large, national utility company to:

  • Analyze, standardize, and streamline permit execution processes across the client’s four distinct business units
  • Deploy the TechServ proprietary joint-use maintenance platform to support the standardized permit execution process, including working with the client to gather requirements, enhance the platform to fit client requirements, and train the client on how to use and read metrics created by the platform

Result

New permit execution process enabled an increase in permit poles and reduced the client’s backlog by over 70%.

Tommy Russell

Director of Operations

Tommy Russell is the Director of Operations at the TechServ office in Tyler, Texas, focusing on customer relations and business development. He has a rich background in the electric utility industry, having previously served as the Senior Director of Health, Safety, and Environmental in Transmission and Distribution Operations at Primoris Services Company. Tommy’s extensive experience includes roles at Linetec Services and Southwestern Electric Power Company, where he was involved in safety management, regulatory compliance, and corporate initiatives.

Tommy is recognized as a technical advisor and subject matter expert in the utility industry. He has significantly contributed to the development of safety protocols and procedures nationwide through his longstanding involvement with the Edison Electric Institute (EEI) and the National Electrical Safety Code C2 Committee. Tommy also plays an active role in educational programs, serving as a technical advisor for lineman and cableman’s programs at Texas State Technical College and Kilgore College, where he has been instrumental in program development.

Beyond his professional expertise, Tommy is a certified utility safety professional with Department of Labor Certifications in various utility operations. He is also a professional investigator and a motivational, safety, and leadership speaker. Tommy resides in Longview, Texas with his wife, continuing to be a respected voice in the utility sector and an advocate for safety and operational excellence.

Roger Lindsey

Business Manager

Roger Lindsey is an experienced Business Manager with an extensive 36-year track record in the electric utility sector. With a rich background spanning leadership roles across diverse domains such as Distribution Line Work and Construction Operations, Vegetation Management, Program and Project Management, Utility Design and Training, Recruiting, Joint Utility Administration, Right-Of-Way Management, and Customer Operations Executive, he embodies a wealth of expertise. 

Roger is well-versed in the intricate legislative and regulatory landscape encompassing electric utilities. His longstanding role as a bridge between the electric utility realm and elected officials at the state and local levels highlights his deep involvement in shaping industry dynamics. 

Bringing a fresh consulting dimension to TechServ’s clientele, Roger’s understanding of electrical transmission and distribution operations opens doors to innovative solutions. His commitment to optimizing processes and fostering community-centric approaches underscores his genuine enthusiasm for driving efficiency. At the core of his philosophy lies an unwavering dedication to safety as the foremost priority, while relentlessly striving for best-in-class services.

Rob Johnson

Regional Manager

Rob Johnson is the East Region Manager at TechServ, where he leverages over 40 years of experience in the electrical utility distribution field. Starting his career at AEP Appalachian Power in West Virginia, Rob spent 34 years in roles spanning design and project engineering, construction oversight, and supervisory responsibilities. In 2017, he transitioned to 5 Star Electric to aid in the restoration of Puerto Rico’s power grid post-Hurricane Maria, eventually becoming President of the company. His return to West Virginia was motivated by the opportunity to work with former colleagues from previous companies and to join the TechServ team.

Under Rob’s leadership, the Joint Use program in the Eastern region has seen substantial growth. His Engineering team and Joint Use team work efficiently across multiple states. Rob also supports TechServ’s storm response team and handles emergencies from New York to Florida.

Rob holds an AS degree in Electrical Engineering Technology from the WV Institute of Technology. His commitment to safety, quality, and customer satisfaction continues to drive his work, ensuring that TechServ not only meets but exceeds customer expectations in all aspects of utility engineering and management. His deep experience and strategic leadership are key to his success and the ongoing growth of TechServ in the utility sector.

Marion “Rick” Greene

Vice President of Engineering Services

Marion “Rick” Greene, is the Vice President of Engineering Services at TechServ where he leads with a servant leadership philosophy, emphasizing the needs of his team and customers first. With over 16 years of extensive experience in the electric utility sector, he has carved a niche in strategic leadership, project management, engineering, and the construction of EPC transmission and distribution capital projects in the electric utility sector. His career has been marked by his roles at Entergy, where he led substantial projects across Texas and Louisiana, managing large, cross-functional teams and multi-million dollar budgets with a commitment to efficiency and safely delivering on expectations set forth by key stakeholders.

In addition to holding a professional engineering license in the state of Texas, Mr. Greene’s educational credentials include a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering from McNeese State University and a Master’s of Business Administration from Texas A&M University. His commitment to professional development and excellence provides him with a solid foundation in both the technical and managerial aspects of his role.

Mr. Greene’s role at TechServ and his influence within the industry are a testament to his dedication to continuous improvement, leveraging team diversity, and focusing on the fundamentals of design and construction to achieve excellence.

Kim Rhodes

Business Office Manager

Kim Rhodes is the Business Office Manager at TechServ, a position she has held for 25 years since joining the company in 1999.  She manages important operational functions such as payroll, financial audits, along with overseeing accounts payable and receivable, and 401K enrollment. Throughout her tenure, she has also played integral roles in managing human resources, insurance benefits, and coordinating the onboarding process for new employees, ensuring they understand and integrate into TechServ’s culture and comply with necessary regulations.

Kim earned an Associate Degree in Business from Tyler Junior College. Her extensive experience and educational background make her a vital part of the TechServ team, where she contributes to both the smooth running of the company and the nurturing of a positive and productive workplace environment.

Ken Kinsey

Senior Director of Utility Services

Ken Kinsey is the Senior Director of Utility Services at TechServ. With over 40 years of experience in the electric utility industry, he has held various roles in both Transmission and Distribution for Oncor Electric Delivery, one of the largest electric utility companies in Texas. These positions included Protection and Control Manager, Senior Manager of Vegetation Management, and Senior Manager of Distribution Construction Contractors. Prior to joining TechServ, Mr. Kinsey served as the Executive Vice President of Cobra Energy, where he was responsible for overseeing the operations of their line construction companies and leading the electrical restoration efforts for Hurricane Maria in Puerto Rico.

Mr. Kinsey holds an Associate Degree in Electrical Power Distribution from Texas State Technical College in Waco, TX. His extensive knowledge and experience in systems testing and calibrations, effective management of vegetation management programs across Transmission and Distribution systems, and oversight of all Distribution construction contractors for Oncor, as well as his executive leadership in a construction company, enable him to bring a unique perspective to our clients and employees at TechServ. With a focus on growth, reliability, accountability, and above all, safety, Mr. Kinsey plays a crucial role in paving the way for success at TechServ.

Justin Goding

Transmission Regional Manager

Justin Goding is a Transmission Regional Manager who covers the western region of TechServ’s service area. Justin joined TechServ in April of 2017 and utilizes his 15 years of experience in the utility industry to coordinate the hiring, placement, and development of over 70 professionals in states including Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, and Louisiana. One of Justin’s professional goals is to ensure that TechServ sets the standard for providing experienced, dedicated, and professional field personnel to meet the ever-changing needs of its customers.

Justin began his career in the utility industry in 2008 by working on various wind farms, installing underground collection systems across the country, from Wyoming to Texas.

In 2010, he transitioned to building substations, starting as a technician, and working his way up to a foreman. In this role, he managed equipment, personnel, materials, and schedules, and was responsible for constructing both greenfield and brownfield substations, ranging from 12kV distribution stations to 500kV switchyards across the country.

In 2017, Justin started at TechServ as an Inspector in the ERCOT region, overseeing projects across West Texas. In June of 2019, he was promoted to Transmission Construction Supervisor, where he was responsible for managing inspectors and ensuring customer satisfaction with the services provided by TechServ.

Jim MacMullen

Regional Manager

Jim MacMullen is the Regional Manager for Construction Oversight at Transmission and Telecom Services. He joined TechServ in August 2011 with a vision to establish TechServ as a significant asset in the Power Utility space. With over 30 years of experience in Construction Project and Contract Management, he has helped expand TechServ’s employee base from just six regionally to over 70 Construction Managers and Inspectors across seven states. With more than 12 years of utility management experience, one of Jim’s professional goals is to ensure that TechServ’s field personnel set the industry standard for performance in Utility Construction Management and that our customers receive the best in service and support.

Jim is a U.S. Air Force veteran who served during the Persian Gulf War, Operation Desert Storm, and in the European Air Command. Upon returning, he attended Franklin University in Columbus, Ohio, where he studied Construction Management, Business, and Real Estate Law while working in the construction industry. He is a member of the Ohio Chapter of the Project Management Institute (PMI), holds a PMP certificate, and is OSHA 30-hour certified as well as CPR and First Aid certified.

James Manlove

Director of Operations – Corpus Christi

James C. Manlove serves as the Director of Operations at the TechServ office in Corpus Christi, Texas. With a robust career spanning over 26 years, he began as a lineman at a cooperative, providing a solid foundation for his diverse expertise. Before his tenure at TechServ, James spent ten years working in industrial automation at an electric supply house for refineries, handling tasks ranging from fabrication to design.

Joining TechServ in April 2010, James has progressed through several pivotal roles, from field technician to designer, and later to managing both inspectors and engineering technicians. He played a crucial role in significantly expanding the telecom and distribution inspection services across various states, and effectively managed teams to complete these expansive projects. His leadership was particularly crucial in establishing storm damage assessment as a formal service line at TechServ, drawing on his extensive experience in managing recovery efforts during multiple severe weather events, including hurricanes and ice storms.

Currently focused on customer relations and business development, James aims to further enhance services in make-ready processes, telecom inspections, and distribution inspections. He is well-regarded for his excellent communication skills, deep technical expertise, and adept strategic relationship management. As a recipient of the Texas Job Training and Safety Program Life Saving Award, James continues to uphold his commitment to safety and excellence in the utility sector.

Gary Dutton

Regional Manager

Gary Dutton serves as the Texas Region Manager for Distribution projects at TechServ, having joined the company in January 2022. He brings a wealth of experience to his role, with 40 years in the electric utility industry, including 25 years with Oncor Electric Delivery. Gary’s tenure at Oncor involved 17 years as a senior lineman followed by 8 years as a Senior Utility Designer in Project Management Design Services.

Prior to joining TechServ, Gary worked for 16 years with one of the nation’s leading manufacturer’s representatives, where he provided professional sales services in the Oklahoma Public Power market. His clientele included major players like Oklahoma Gas and Electric and American Electric Power, with a focus on Substations, Transmission, and Distribution products. This role sharpened his understanding of the market’s dynamics and the critical “sense of urgency to solve customers’ problems,” which he now prioritizes in his current position.

Gary holds an associate degree in Applied Science in Electronics from Tyler Junior College. His extensive background in utility work and project management, combined with his strategic sales experience, enables him to effectively lead and develop TechServ’s distribution projects in Texas, ensuring high standards of service and customer satisfaction.

Bryan Green

Manager of Engineering Services

Bryan Green is the Manager of Engineering Services at TechServ, where he leads a talented team of 65+ professionals across three essential service lines: project management, data collection, and engineering design. Since joining TechServ 17 years ago, he has risen through the ranks with a profound commitment to the utility sector, driven by a family legacy in the field. His extensive on-the-job training in Distribution Engineering and Joint Use Engineering, under the guidance of seasoned senior engineers, has been instrumental in his development.

Under Bryan’s leadership, his department has achieved a significant 25% increase in efficiency through enhanced project management processes. His team has also advanced their data collection methods by integrating sophisticated analytics, markedly improving project outcomes and elevating client satisfaction. Bryan’s technical expertise and deep understanding of engineering operations at TechServ have been pivotal in his role. He excels in analytical problem-solving and is adept at leading and motivating his team to pursue excellence, embracing the challenges of the continuously evolving utility industry with enthusiasm and an eagerness for knowledge.

Ashley Kutach

Director of Human Resources

Ashley Kutach serves as Director of Human Resources for TechServ. With over 25 years of expertise in Human Resources and Operations, Ashley Kutach stands as a results-focused leader specializing in talent acquisition, retention, and engagement. Her strategic solutions empower TechServ to unlock the full potential of its most valuable asset – its people.

As a transformative leader, Ashley goes beyond conventional management practices, delivering both immediate and long-term results. She has a proven track record of transforming traditional Human Resources departments into value-adding business partners, contributing significantly to bottom-line organizational success.

Ashley holds the SHRM Senior Certified Professional designation and earned her Bachelor of Arts and Master of Arts in Communication from Texas State University. Additionally, she holds a Ph.D. in Human Resource Development from the University of Texas at Tyler.

Outside of her professional endeavors, Ashley finds joy in outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, boating, and playing pickleball. She cherishes moments of food and fellowship with friends and family.

2021 Winter Storm Uri

Storm Response

In February 2021, North America experienced Winter Storm Uri, also known as “Snowmageddon,” which caused widespread devastation and disruption, particularly to electric utilities in Texas. Winter Storm Uri was one of the most severe winter and ice storms on record, resulting in significant financial losses and challenges for utilities nationwide. Amidst this crisis, TechServ, a leading provider of damage assessment services, mobilized its resources to support affected regions, deploying teams and equipment to key locations.

Challenges Faced: The scale and intensity of Winter Storm Uri posed numerous challenges for TechServ and its personnel. These challenges included:

  1. Communication and Safety: Ensuring seamless communication and adherence to safety protocols amidst the chaos of the storm was critical. TechServ established a central command center in Tyler, Texas, equipped with advanced communication tools and protocols to facilitate real-time updates and instructions to field teams.
  2. Geographical Spread: TechServ had to deploy teams across multiple states, including Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, West Virginia, and the entire Midwest, to assist various electric utilities simultaneously.
  3. Operational Coordination: Coordinating the efforts of over 150 damage assessment teams and more than 320 personnel, including drivers, wire down guards, staging site coordinators, logistic teams, and storm managers, required meticulous planning and organization.

TechServ’s Response: Despite the formidable challenges posed by Winter Storm Uri, TechServ demonstrated exceptional resilience, efficiency, and professionalism in its response. Key aspects of TechServ’s response included:

  1. Safety Focus: Despite the demanding nature of the work, TechServ prioritized safety, achieving an impressive record of zero recordable injuries throughout the storm event.
  2. Pre-staging and Deployment: TechServ proactively pre-staged personnel and equipment days before the storm’s impact, ensuring a swift and coordinated response once the storm hit.
  3. 24/7 Operations: TechServ operated around the clock, working in rotating shifts for over two weeks to expedite damage assessment and restoration efforts.
  4. Advanced Communication: Leveraging video conferencing and mass text messaging, TechServ maintained constant communication with its teams, providing timely updates and support.
  5. Utilization of Technology: TechServ utilized clients’ damage assessment tools on smart devices, enhancing efficiency and accuracy in assessing and documenting storm-related damages.
  6. Versatile Deployment: TechServ deployed a range of vehicles, including four-wheel drive vehicles and UTVs, to navigate through challenging terrain and access remote locations.

Conclusion: Winter Storm Uri presented unprecedented challenges to electric utilities across the United States, demanding swift and effective response measures. TechServ’s exemplary response to this crisis underscores its commitment to safety, efficiency, and reliability in delivering damage assessment services. As demonstrated by its actions during Winter Storm Uri, TechServ remains poised to address future challenges and support communities in times of need.

Travis Floyd

Controller

Since January 2022, Travis K. Floyd has been pivotal at TechServ as the financial controller. He manages the company’s financial activities, from overseeing Financial Reporting, General Accounting, and Payroll to handling Accounts Receivable and Payable. His role is vital in ensuring TechServ’s compliance with financial laws, guiding fiscal decisions, and fostering the company’s financial health for sustained growth.

Travis’s prior roles include significant tenures as a controller at Precision Spine Care and a 20-year stint at Kluber Lubrication North America, providing a solid foundation in financial oversight across diverse sectors.

In addition to his professional achievements, Travis actively contributes to his community by serving as a board member for Junior Achievement Tyler, and as an Education Committee Member for the Tyler Chamber of Commerce.

Holding a CPA certification and a Bachelor of Business Administration degree in Accounting from the University of Houston, Travis combines in-depth financial expertise with a strong commitment to community service, making a significant impact both at TechServ and in his wider community engagements.

William Worthy

Director of Transmission Operations

William Worthy is a seasoned professional with almost 40 years of extensive experience in Electric Utility Construction and Management. William bears the responsibility of directing transmission and substation construction oversight and post construction inspection of microgeneration installations, ensuring the highest level of quality and performance.

William joined TechServ in July of 2017 as a Supervisor in the Corpus Christi area. He began his career as a ground man in Texas.  William progressed up the ranks to become an Operations Manager and eventually the Chief Operations Officer for an electric cooperative in the Midwest.

William’s primary goal is to oversee personnel and recruit dedicated, experienced personnel to meet the unique needs of our valued clients. This approach ensures that TechServ delivers exceptional service and solutions in the ever-evolving tech industry.

Throughout his remarkable career, he has garnered significant recognition for his contributions, including receiving the prestigious Texas Electric Cooperative’s Life Saving Award.

With his wealth of experience and leadership skills, William continues to drive innovation and success at TechServ, making a lasting impact on the industry and the clients we serve.

Andrea Sfondrini

Senior Director of Telecommunication Services

Andrea Sfondrini holds the position of Senior Director of Telecommunication Services at TechServ, where he manages a substantial team of over 250 employees. In this pivotal role, Andrea oversees the development and operation of joint use services, telecom design services, and system & asset management services. His extensive expertise and strategic leadership ensure the delivery of innovative and efficient telecommunication solutions across various projects. Mr. Sfondrini is a Professional Engineer and holds a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from the University of Texas in Tyler.

With a commitment to excellence, Andrea spearheads initiatives that enhance the infrastructure and capabilities of telecom services. He is deeply involved in the strategic planning and execution of projects that cater to the complex needs of clients.

Under Andrea’s direction, his teams are known for their technical proficiency and their ability to adapt to the rapidly evolving telecom industry. His approach involves a keen focus on client-specific needs, delivering tailored solutions that drive efficiency and effectiveness in project execution. Andrea’s leadership at TechServ highlights his capability to blend technical acumen with robust managerial skills, making a significant impact on the company’s growth and the quality of its telecommunications services.  His mission for his group is:  “We must lead by fostering a culture of self-leadership through mentorship, where ingenuity, honesty, and inquisitive mindsets are not just encouraged but celebrated.”

Nicholas Hebert

Chief Operating Officer
Nicholas Hebert is the Executive Vice President of Operations at TechServ, overseeing the organization’s business operations. With over 19 years in the electric construction industry, he has held several senior executive roles, including Senior Vice President/General Manager at PLH Group and Senior Vice President at PowerLine Services.
 
Known for his solution-oriented mindset, he has a proven track record in developing and executing strategic business plans that enhance customer relations, drive operational growth, and improve profitability.
 
He holds a Bachelor of Science in Construction Management from Louisiana State University and has extensive experience in project management, construction, safety, fleet management, and business development.
 
At TechServ, Nicholas drives key decisions, conducts risk assessments, and solves complex challenges to propel the company forward.

Randall Wisenbaker

President & CEO

Randall C. Wisenbaker is Chief Executive Officer at TechServ. He has over 30 years of experience in the electric power engineering, testing, and construction industry while holding several senior executive positions for a Fortune 500 company, including President of Dashiell Corporation, President of North Houston Pole Line, and Executive Vice President of Operations at Quanta Services.

Mr. Wisenbaker graduated from Texas A&M University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Construction Science. His career has included execution and management of electric utility functions, including engineering, project management, testing, construction, safety and health, equipment asset management, and merger and acquisitions.

His industry and leadership experience is instrumental in allowing TechServ to evaluate and create unique service solutions for our utility customers. Mr. Wisenbaker enjoys golf and is a commercial instrument-rated private pilot.