425 Smart Technology in Water Treatment with Kevin Kuhne

"You don't have to transition your entire business. You just need to start. Small beginnings are okay."  Revolutionizing Water Treatment Through Smart Tech  In this episode of Scaling UP! H2O, host Trace Blackmore welcomes Kevin Kuhne, Founder and President of Energy Resource Products, LLC, for a deep-dive conversation on the emerging role of smart technology and artificial intelligence in water treatment.  With decades of experience leading tech-driven innovation, Kevin unpacks how intelligent systems, edge computing, and real-time data processing are reshaping operations in the field—from cooling towers to complex distribution networks.  Whether you're managing plant performance or driving strategic growth, this episode offers a credible look into the future of industrial water management.   From Controllers to Edge-Based Intelligence  Kevin introduces the evolution of traditional controllers into what he calls "computers at the edge." These intelligent systems collect real-time data, deliver predictive alerts, and can execute secure firmware updates—all without requiring field visits. This shift eliminates the dependency on gateways and streamlines site management through centralized dashboards, saving time and resources.  He illustrates how these systems not only detect pump failures before they occur but also reduce chemical overdosing incidents by offering immediate visibility into feeder issues and sensor discrepancies.   Breaking the Barrier: Selling Smart Tech to Stakeholders  One of the recurring challenges in adopting new technology is overcoming skepticism—especially from IT teams and procurement stakeholders. Kevin outlines strategies for simplifying the sales conversation: focus on specific ROI outcomes like labor savings, chemical usage reduction, and improved equipment uptime. He also breaks down how modern security protocols and machine-to-machine communication are easing concerns around connectivity and data protection.   AI and the Cloud: Turning Data into Action  The discussion advances into how AI-enabled platforms now process disparate data streams in the cloud to support smarter decision-making. Rather than waiting for weekly reports, professionals can now access dynamic dashboards and build customized data visualizations to proactively manage client sites from any location.  Kevin emphasizes that this shift empowers service professionals, not replaces them. By removing manual data bottlenecks, smart tech allows for more impactful engagement and long-term client retention.  Future-Proofing the Industry  Kevin predicts a near future where IO configurations fade, sensors become brand-agnostic, and user interfaces resemble common mobile apps. He encourages water professionals to begin small—pilot smart technology in a single location, gather feedback, and use those wins to accelerate broader adoption.  He closes with a message for early-career professionals: embracing smart technology from the start will enable them to deliver higher value and grow their impact in the industry.   Conclusion  As industries move toward intelligent infrastructure, water professionals must adapt. This episode provides a grounded, expert-led perspective on how to practically and securely implement these technologies. For technical managers, engineers, and company leaders, this is a timely and strategic conversation you won't want to miss.  Stay engaged, keep learning, and continue scaling up your knowledge!    Timestamps    01:38 – Trace Blackmore shares a reflection on sharks and ecosystem sustainability, tying into the episode's broader theme of technology and responsible action.   10:06 – Water You Know with James McDonald  11:30 – Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals   14:08 – Interview with Founder, President, and Coach Kevin Kuhne of Energy Resource Products  16:11 - Kevin defines smart tech, contrasting traditional controllers with edge-based computing that delivers real-time data, predictive analysis, and remote access  33:10 — Future technology trends 36:12 — Message for newcomers: Kevin encourages young professionals to embrace tech as a tool for empowerment, not a threat    Quotes  "Your customer is already integrating AI in other parts of their business. If we're not doing it, someone else will."   "Security is the real roadblock, but if the equipment has a computer-type base of operation, IT is far more comfortable."  "Smart tech is identifying those areas that we can enhance information, translate it, and then act on it."    Connect with Kevin Kuhne  Phone: 17632263945  Email: [email protected]   Website: www.energyresourceproducts.com    LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-kuhne-1812626   Click HERE to Download Episode's Discussion Guide    Guest Resources Mentioned   12 Rules for Life: An Antidote to Chaos: Jordan B. Peterson   The Problem of Pain by C.S. Lewis  A Christmas Carol (Collins Classics) by Charles Dickens    Scaling UP! H2O Resources Mentioned  AWT (Association of Water Technologies)  Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses  Submit a Show Idea  The Rising Tide Mastermind  AWT Technical Training (Coming Soon - 2026)   422 Inside the Association of Water Technologies with John Caloritis    Water You Know with James McDonald   Question: What is the breakpoint chlorination ratio of chlorine to ammonia required to reach a true free chlorine residual?    2025 Events for Water Professionals  Check out our Scaling UP! H2O Events Calendar where we've listed every event Water Treaters should be aware of by clicking HERE.