Connectivity Powered by NECA

IoT and AI Are Making Buildings Smarter, More Efficient, and Energy-Conscious.Today’s guest is Kit Gaines from Leviton, a global leader in electrical wiring devices, network infrastructure, and connected building solutions. Kit works at the intersection of power, communications, and smart building technology, helping contractors, designers, and owners navigate the rapidly evolving world of converged building systems.In this conversation, we discuss the fascinating history of Ethernet and its impact on modern building convergence. Data-driven decision making is reshaping the built environment and expanding the role of the electrical contractor. We talk about real-world applications, the growing importance of coordination across trades, and why cybersecurity and data infrastructure are becoming just as critical as traditional power systems in modern buildings.

In this episode, James Stanger and Jeff Parker from CompTIA discuss the often-overlooked cybersecurity vulnerabilities in operational technology (OT) and the critical need for securing IoT devices. They highlight the intersection of IT, OT, and cybersecurity, explaining why traditional IT defenses are inadequate for industrial environments. The conversation covers essential topics like micro-segmentation, AI monitoring, and the importance of a shared vocabulary between IT and OT teams. Through real-world stories, they illustrate how latency can be a critical issue in life safety and mission-critical systems. The episode emphasizes creating a culture of security and adopting proactive risk management frameworks to integrate cybersecurity into every phase of infrastructure lifecycle, empowering professionals to protect their systems from unseen threats.

In this episode of Connectivity, Charles Hume, Managing Director of Southwire Technology Ventures joins us to discuss the future of nuclear energy, and the rise of digital power technologies such as fault-managed power and Power Over Ethernet. The conversation also touches on the importance of sustainability in power delivery, the challenges of modernizing the grid, and the potential for electrification in various sectors. Hume emphasizes the need for a holistic approach to building systems and the integration of power and data for future advancements.

In this conversation, we sit down with Luis Suau and discuss the evolution of digital building technologies, focusing on energy efficiency, the shift to DC power, and the role of fault managed power, PoE and USB. They explore the challenges and opportunities in adopting these technologies, emphasizing the importance of education and standardization. The Sinclair Hotel serves as a case study for innovative applications of power technologies, showcasing the convergence of power and data in modern buildings. The discussion highlights the need for curiosity and openness to new solutions in the rapidly changing landscape of building infrastructure.

In this episode, we bring together leading industry experts to unpack the future of power distribution and the transformative role of Fault Managed Power (FMP). We then dive into how Fault Managed Power works, why it’s safer and smarter, and the potential it holds for critical infrastructure.Looking ahead, we explore the importance of global standards in driving adoption, ensuring safety, and unifying best practices worldwide. Finally, we highlight the mission of the FMP Alliance—a coalition of thought leaders, manufacturers, and contractors committed to advancing safer, more sustainable, and resilient energy systems.

In this episode, we bring together leading industry experts to unpack the future of power distribution and the transformative role of Fault Managed Power (FMP). We then dive into how Fault Managed Power works, why it’s safer and smarter, and the potential it holds for critical infrastructure.Looking ahead, we explore the importance of global standards in driving adoption, ensuring safety, and unifying best practices worldwide. Finally, we highlight the mission of the FMP Alliance—a coalition of thought leaders, manufacturers, and contractors committed to advancing safer, more sustainable, and resilient energy systems.

In this episode, we welcome Jason Shearer, Workplace SE Director at Cisco Systems, to explore how smart buildings are becoming today’s reality. From Power over Ethernet (PoE) to Fault-Managed Power (FMP), we break down how building infrastructure is evolving by converging power, data, and control onto a single, intelligent network. Jason also shares Cisco’s approach to cybersecurity at the edge, and we close with an important discussion on addressing the skilled labor shortage and preparing the next generation of smart building professionals.

In this episode, we are joined by Akram “AK” Khalis, Co-Founder/CEO of MHT Technologies, for a conversation about the evolution of building technologies, particularly focusing on the advancements in LED technology, the importance of data in building management, and the role of IoT and Power Over Ethernet in creating smart buildings.The speakers discuss the need for global standards, the significance of healthy work environments, and the challenges and opportunities for contractors in adapting to new technologies. Training and collaboration between vendors and contractors are emphasized as crucial for successful implementation of these innovations.

In this episode, we dive deep into the world of Fault Managed Power (FMP) with industry expert Bob Voss. Distinguished Engineer with Panduit Corporate Research and Development.From a clear breakdown of Class 4 power to the cutting-edge technology enabling safe, high-power delivery, we explore how FMP is transforming the landscape of smart buildings, energy conservation, and global infrastructure.Bob walks us through:• Understanding Class 4 Fault Managed Power• The Technology Behind Fault Managed Power• Applications and Use Cases of Fault Managed Power• The Future of Smart Buildings and Fault Managed Power• Energy Efficiency and Conservation in Modern Infrastructure• Global Standardization and the Future of Power DeliveryHear real-world applications, understand why FMP matters now more than ever, and get a glimpse into the future of standardized power systems across the globe.

In this conversation, the CEO of PoE Texas, Tyler Andrews, discusses the evolution and future of Power Over Ethernet (PoE) technology, emphasizing its role in building automation and the convergence of power and data. The discussion highlights the importance of training for electrical contractors through NECA, the impact of AI on building management, and the challenges faced by the electrical industry in adapting to new technologies. The conversation concludes with a look ahead at future trends and innovations in the industry

In this episode, we sit down with Steve Eaves, CEO of Voltserver and the inventor of Digital Electricity, to demystify this groundbreaking technology. Often described as a mix of witchcraft and magic, Digital Electricity is powerful and safe—but what exactly is it, and how does it work?Steve walks us through:🔹 The origins of Digital Electricity and its role in EV charging🔹 Packet Energy Transfer vs. traditional DC power🔹 Why this innovation isn’t more widely known—yet!🔹 Class 4 Fault-Managed Power and its impact on electrical codes (NEC 725 & 726)🔹 How Digital Electricity is already being used in 5G, DAS, small cells, kiosks, and beyond🔹 The future of power distribution, NESC trends, and what’s next in 2025 and beyondIs Class 4 Power the key to global standardization? Can it transform how we power everything from streetlights to data centers? Join us for this deep dive into the future of power with one of the industry’s leading innovators!