Ep 9 | From Boots to Boardroom with Rick Garland | Linemen Safety | KYRO AI

In this episode of Boots to Boardroom we talk to Rick Garland — a veteran lineman from IBEW Local 66. We explore the critical evolution of lineman safety and the hard lessons learned over a 40-year career. Rick shares his journey from roofing houses to leading crews in Texas, highlighting the stark contrast between old-school methods and modern safety culture. He opens up a personal tragedy involving his nephew, illustrating why no job is worth rushing and why proper grounding is non-negotiable. The conversation also covers the current workforce shortage, honest advice for young apprentices, and how technology like AI might help crews during storm response. It’s a candid look at the trade, emphasizing that while the work is tough, the brotherhood and career potential are unmatched. What you'll learn :How safety culture changed from 1-in-2 fatalities to modern standards The tragic consequences of rushing and lack of planning Why the foreman role is the most critical job on a crew Advice for apprentices moving up to journeyman status How AI could assist with engineering and storm response About the Guest: Rick Garland is a veteran lineman from IBEW Local 66 in Pasadena, Texas. His career began in 1979 after switching from roofing to electrical work at the South Texas Nuclear Project. Coming from a family of linemen, including his father and brother, Rick has worked across distribution, transmission, and underground projects. He previously founded Mesa Line Services, building a company focused on safety and quality from 2014 to 2020. Now in a leadership role, Rick advocates for thorough training, resisting the urge to rush, and maintaining high safety standards. About the Show: From Boots to Boardroom is a podcast that shines a light on the people who keep America running. Not every leader sits in a corner office — leadership is found on job sites, in the field, and in the boardroom. In each episode, we share the journeys of those who build, restore, and power our nation. From linemen and builders to entrepreneurs and executives, these are stories of grit, tenacity, empathy, and vision. Subscribe for episodes featuring the leaders who power America's infrastructure! Like this episode? Hit the thumbs up and let us know what leadership topic you'd like us to explore next! Follow Hari Vasudevan, Founder and CEO of KYRO AI here LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/harivasudevan/ Follow us on our socials:Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/company/kyrosaas/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/kyro.ai/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/kyrosaasTikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@kyro.aiDisclaimer: The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed by the guest are solely their own and do not necessarily represent or reflect the views, policies, or positions of KYRO AI, From Boots to Boardroom, or the host. Any appearance by a guest on this program does not constitute an endorsement of the guest’s views, products, services, or affiliations. KYRO AI, From Boots to Boardroom, and the host disclaim any liability relating to the content discussed and make no representations regarding the accuracy or completeness of the information shared.#lineman #IBEW #utilitysafety #stormresponse #skilledtrades #humanperformance #IBEWLocal66 #powerline #electricalsafety #bluecollar #KyroAI #linelife