EnergyTech Podcast

Industrial AI Starts with Better Data | Mike Tilman on Edge Computing & UNS - Ep. 073

In this episode of the Energy Tech Podcast, recorded live at ENTELEC 2026 in Galveston, Texas, Mike Flores sits down with Mike Tilman — an edge computing innovator and OT/IT integration expert with decades of experience in oil & gas communications, industrial networking, and data infrastructure.Mike shares his journey from early IT consulting in the oilfield to supporting large-scale edge computing and data strategy initiatives for a major energy producer. The conversation dives deep into some of the biggest challenges facing industrial operators today:Unified Namespace (UNS) and contextualized dataMQTT, Sparkplug B, and edge architecturesOT vs IT integration challengesAI readiness in industrial operationsWhy “garbage in, garbage out” matters for AIData lakes, semantic models, and predictive maintenanceIndustrial cybersecurity and OT risk managementThe role of ENTELEC as a true industry communityIf you're involved in SCADA, automation, industrial networking, cybersecurity, AI, or digital transformation in energy — this episode is packed with practical insights from real-world deployments.Topics Covered:✅ Edge compute in oil & gas✅ Unified Namespace (UNS) strategies✅ MQTT & Sparkplug B architectures✅ OT cybersecurity challenges✅ AI and industrial data quality✅ Predictive maintenance & analytics✅ SCADA modernization✅ ENTELEC community insights🎧 Subscribe for more conversations on SCADA, automation, industrial AI, OT cybersecurity, and energy technology innovation.#EnergyTechPodcast #UNS #MQTT #IndustrialAI #SCADA #OilAndGas #EdgeComputing #ENTELEC #OperationalTechnology #Cybersecurity #DigitalTransformation #SparkplugB #IndustrialAutomation #OTSecurity #AI00:00 – Introduction from ENTELEC 202600:42 – Meet Mike Tilman: Edge Computing Innovator01:30 – Mike’s Background in Oil & Gas Technology02:35 – Supporting Edge Compute & Data Strategy03:10 – Bridging OT and IT Systems03:53 – Challenges of Deploying Industrial PCs in OT05:00 – Balancing Risk vs Value in New Technology06:03 – Consulting for Operators, Vendors & Integrators07:00 – Unified Namespace (UNS) Explained07:47 – Why Contextualized Data Matters for AI09:00 – Data Engineering vs Proper UNS Design10:52 – MQTT, Sparkplug B & Report-by-Exception Models11:44 – Avoiding Rip-and-Replace Architectures12:40 – Predictive Maintenance & Collecting More Data14:18 – Why AI Alone Won’t Fix Bad Data15:21 – “Garbage In, Garbage Out” for AI16:21 – AI as a Tool, Not the Solution16:56 – Top 3 Requirements for Industrial AI18:12 – Mike’s Role with ENTELEC Cybersecurity Committee18:44 – What Makes ENTELEC Different from Other Conferences19:29 – Upcoming OT Cybersecurity Webinar Initiative21:20 – The Value of ENTELEC Membership & Training22:01 – ENTELEC Fall Seminar in Odessa23:05 – Closing Thoughts & Final TakeawaysPresented by Opsite Energy: www.opsitenergy.comMusic: Uygar Duzgun / “Fast Life” courtesy of www.epidemicsound.com

PHMSA Control Room Management Series - Part VII Point To Point Verification - Ep 072

In Episode 7 of the Energy Tech Podcast Control Room Management (CRM) series, Mike Flores and Daniel Nieto break down one of the most critical — and often misunderstood — requirements in pipeline operations: point-to-point verification.This episode dives into how operators ensure that SCADA data can be trusted — from the field device all the way to the control room screen. When controllers lose trust in their data, alarm response, safety, and operational integrity are all at risk.Daniel shares real-world audit experience and practical guidance on:When point-to-point verification is required (beyond just new installs)How to validate field instruments, communication paths, and SCADA displaysThe role of alarm verification and safety-related pointsCommon mistakes that lead to audit findingsHow to properly document and prove compliance during PHMSA auditsIf you're responsible for SCADA systems, control room operations, or regulatory compliance, this episode gives you a clear, actionable framework to ensure your data is accurate — and defensible.👉 Subscribe for more CRM insights and real-world operational guidance.⏱️ Chapters00:00 – Intro to CRM Series Part 7: Point-to-Point Verification00:49 – What is Point-to-Point Verification?01:17 – Why Trusting SCADA Data Matters02:06 – End-to-End Verification (Field to SCADA)03:32 – Regulatory Foundation (PHMSA 192 & 195)04:30 – Core Concept: Field Devices, Comms, and Display Alignment06:00 – Audit Expectations: What Inspectors Look For07:37 – What Does “Thorough” Mean in an Audit?08:47 – When Point-to-Point is Required (Key Triggers)10:09 – Changes That Require Verification (Scaling, Mapping, Logic)11:12 – Rule of Thumb for Triggering Point-to-Point13:18 – What a Proper Point-to-Point Process Looks Like13:58 – Communication Path & Data Refresh Rates15:52 – Tag Mapping & Naming Consistency17:13 – Alarm Verification & Setpoint Validation18:21 – Who Should Perform Point-to-Point Testing?20:34 – Using Synthetic Values When You Can’t Shut Down22:25 – Objective: Eliminate Mapping, Scaling & Logic Errors23:31 – Real-World Failure Example (Mismapped Transmitter)26:27 – Safety-Critical Points to Prioritize27:52 – Verification Requirements for Safety Logic29:43 – Documentation & Audit Evidence Requirements31:41 – Daniel’s 4-Step Compliance Framework33:35 – Tie Point-to-Point to Management of Change (MOC)34:53 – Common Misconceptions Explained35:57 – Is Point-to-Point Just Paperwork?36:37 – Do You Need to Verify Every Point?37:42 – Top 3 Takeaways for Operators & Managers40:17 – Preview of Episode 8: "When Screens Go Dark"Presented by Opsite Energy: www.opsitenergy.comMusic: Uygar Duzgun / “Fast Life” courtesy of www.epidemicsound.com

Tower Construction, Data Infrastructure & AI in Energy | Brandon Young | Midland Tower - Ep 071

In this episode of the Energy Tech Podcast, recorded live at ENTELEC 2026 in Galveston, Texas, we sit down with Brandon Young, CEO of Midland Tower Construction.Brandon shares his journey from climbing 2,000-foot towers to leading a fast-growing infrastructure company supporting oil & gas, telecom, and data-driven operations across the U.S.We dive into how tower construction plays a critical role in modern energy infrastructure — from fiber networks and microwave communications to full EPC support and data-driven operations.We also explore the future of infrastructure, including how companies like Midland Tower are adapting to increasing data demands and the role of AI in optimizing operations.Key Topics Covered:Tower construction and infrastructure in oil & gasFiber, microwave, and network deploymentEPC partnerships and end-to-end project supportScaling operations across multiple statesData-driven operations in energyAI in infrastructure and field operationsWorkforce growth and company cultureIf you're in energy, telecom, or industrial infrastructure — this episode gives you a behind-the-scenes look at the backbone of modern operations.👉 Subscribe for more conversations from ENTELEC 2026👉 Follow OpSite Energy for insights on remote operations, SCADA, and energy tech#EnergyTech #ENTELEC2026 #OilAndGas #Telecom #Infrastructure #SCADA #AI #DigitalTransformation⏱️ Chapters (YouTube Timestamps)00:00 – Intro from ENTELEC 202600:17 – Meet Brandon Young (Midland Tower Construction)01:17 – From Tower Climber to CEO02:23 – What Midland Tower Construction Does03:26 – Geographic Footprint & Growth04:06 – Fiber, Networking & Infrastructure Work04:46 – Working with EPCs & Engineering Teams05:23 – Full Lifecycle Project Support05:58 – Company Growth: 12 to 55 Employees06:16 – Core Values & Leadership Philosophy07:21 – Integrity in Infrastructure Work08:05 – Simplifying Complexity for Customers08:49 – Technology Roadmap & Industry Trends09:16 – Data-Driven Operations in Energy09:49 – AI in Infrastructure: Tool, Not Threat10:19 – ENTELEC Experience & Industry Engagement10:31 – How to Connect with Midland Tower11:01 – Closing ThoughtsPresented by Opsite Energy: www.opsitenergy.comMusic: Uygar Duzgun / “Fast Life” courtesy of www.epidemicsound.com

PHMSA Control Room Management Series - Part VI - SCADA/HMI Standards & API RP 1165 - Ep 070

Unified Namespace in Oil & Gas: SCADA, UDTs & AI Readiness Explained | Lisa Clark (Autosol) – Ep069

In this episode of the Energy Tech Podcast, recorded live at ENTELEC 2026, we sit down with Lisa Clark, Manager of SCADA Solutions at Autosol, to break down how Unified Namespace (UNS), clean data structures, and modern SCADA architectures are reshaping oil & gas operations.SCADA is no longer just about screens and alarms — it’s becoming a critical layer for business enablement, data strategy, and AI readiness.Lisa shares real-world insights on:• Why Unified Namespace in oil & gas is fundamentally different from manufacturing• How to structure UDTs (User Defined Types) for scalability and long-term success• Common mistakes operators make when building tag structures• The challenge of mobile assets (wells, compressors, routes) vs static plant models• How SCADA engineers are evolving into “data architects” and business enablers• Why clean, contextualized data is the foundation for AI and analytics• How UNS eliminates months-long integration projects and enables plug-and-play data systems• Practical strategies for mid-size operators to adopt UNS using pilot projectsThis conversation is a must-watch for SCADA engineers, automation leaders, and operations teams looking to modernize their data infrastructure and prepare for AI-driven operations.👉 If you're working with Ignition, MQTT, UNS, or industrial data platforms — this episode is for you.Subscribe for more conversations from the Energy Tech Podcast, where we explore the future of industrial operations, SCADA, and digital transformation.⏱️ Chapters00:00 – Intro & ENTELEC 2026 setup00:35 – Lisa Clark’s new role at Autosol01:30 – From project manager to leading SCADA teams02:20 – Autosol products (ACM, EACM, broker) explained03:10 – Common UDT mistakes in oil & gas04:00 – Why mobile assets break traditional SCADA models05:00 – Unified Namespace in oil & gas vs manufacturing06:00 – M&A challenges: “two data languages” problem07:00 – SCADA’s evolution: from screens to business enablement08:20 – Managing competing stakeholders (IT, OT, production)09:15 – Decision paralysis in SCADA projects10:00 – Why pilot projects are critical for success11:00 – Cybersecurity & Purdue model challenges12:00 – Rethinking SCADA architecture (MQTT, gateways, edge)13:00 – Why clean data is the foundation of UNS14:00 – How UNS enables AI and eliminates integration projects15:00 – AI readiness: Snowflake, data lakes & contextual data16:00 – How mid-size operators should approach UNS17:00 – Final thoughts & closingPresented by Opsite Energy: www.opsitenergy.comMusic: Uygar Duzgun / “Fast Life” courtesy of www.epidemicsound.com

PHMSA Control Room Management Series - Part V: Adequate Information and Tools - Ep 063

In Episode 5 of the Energy Tech Podcast Control Room Management (CRM) mini-series, Mike Flores and Daniel Nieto (VP of Regulatory & Compliance at OpSite Energy) break down one of the most overlooked requirements in PHMSA Control Room Management regulations — providing controllers with adequate information and tools.Many operators assume this requirement only refers to SCADA screens, but the reality is much broader. Adequate information includes HMI displays, procedures, safety-related points, alarm identification, maps, contact lists, and operational tools that controllers rely on to safely operate a pipeline.In this episode we discuss:• What adequate information and tools means under 49 CFR 192 & 195 Control Room Management rules• How auditors evaluate Section C compliance during inspections• Why safety-related points must be clearly identified in SCADA and procedures• Common gaps operators face (outdated procedures, missing valve visibility, information overload)• Real-world audit scenarios where missing data becomes a contributing factor to incidents• Practical steps control room leaders can take to improve compliance and operational safetyDaniel also shares lessons learned from dozens of PHMSA CRM audits, explaining what inspectors typically look for during control room observations.If you manage or work in a pipeline control room, SCADA environment, or regulatory compliance role, this episode will help you better understand how to ensure controllers have the tools they need to safely operate pipeline systems.This episode is part of the Energy Tech Podcast CRM Mini-Series, presented by OpSite Energy from the OpSite Energy Control Center in Canonsburg, Pennsylvania.📩 Have a control room scenario or question?Drop it in the comments or contact us at info@opsiteenergy.com👍 Like, Subscribe, and Share with another control room operator or compliance professional.00:00 – Introduction to CRM Episode 500:55 – What “Adequate Information & Tools” Means in Control Rooms02:15 – PHMSA CRM Regulatory Context (49 CFR 192 & 195)04:30 – Why Adequate Information Is Critical for Pipeline Safety06:30 – The Three Pillars of Adequate Information09:00 – Understanding Safety-Related Points in SCADA12:00 – Real-World Examples from Control Room Audits15:15 – Leak Detection and Data Reliability18:00 – What Inspectors Look for During CRM Inspections21:10 – Real Scenario: Missing Valve Status on SCADA25:10 – Contributing Factors vs Human Error28:10 – Common Control Room Gaps Operators Face31:30 – Information Overload in SCADA Displays34:00 – Implementation Framework for Operators37:20 – Mapping Controller Tasks and Tools40:00 – Documenting Safety Related Points42:10 – Misconceptions About CRM Compliance44:30 – Does Adequate Information Look the Same for Everyone?47:00 – Backup Control Rooms and System Differences49:30 – Top 3 Action Items for Control Room Leaders52:00 – Episode Summary53:20 – Preview of Episode 6 (SCADA & HMI Displays)

Industrial SASE Explained: The Future of OT Data & Security | William Behn (Neeve) - Ep 067

In this episode of the Energy Tech Podcast, recorded live at ENTELEC 2026, we sit down with William Behn from Neeve to break down one of the most important shifts happening in industrial tech:👉 The collapse of the traditional OT architecture — and the rise of Industrial SASE.As IT/OT convergence accelerates, legacy models like Purdue are being challenged by modern needs for data mobility, security, and scalability.We dive into:Why 30 years of OT architecture is being torn downThe reality of IT vs OT convergence (it’s cultural, not technical)What Industrial SASE actually means for oil & gas and manufacturingHow to eliminate network sprawl (VPNs, jump boxes, unmanaged switches)The role of Unified Namespace (UNS) + MQTTWhy data needs to move freely — but securelyHow edge computing + zero trust are reshaping industrial systemsThe impact of AI agents on OT infrastructureThis is a must-watch for leaders trying to modernize operations without compromising security.🎧 If you're building the future of control rooms, SCADA, or industrial data platforms — this episode will change how you think.⏱️ Chapters00:00 – Intro: Live from ENTELEC 202600:40 – Meet William Behn (Neeve)01:30 – First Impressions of ENTELEC02:30 – The “Cyber Problem, No Solutions” Reality04:00 – Why Cybersecurity Feels Like “Vanilla Advice”05:30 – IT vs OT Convergence: What’s Really Happening06:30 – Cultural Shift Between IT and OT07:30 – The Pilot Analogy (C5 vs F16) Explained09:00 – OT = Availability, IT = Security10:30 – The Problem with IT Tools in OT11:30 – The End of OT “Sprawl” Architecture12:30 – Why Purdue Model Is Losing Its Grip13:30 – Introduction to Industrial SASE15:00 – How Enterprise IT Solved This 15 Years Ago16:00 – Bringing SASE to OT17:00 – UNS + SASE: How They Work Together18:00 – Data Flow: Edge → Broker → Business19:00 – Multi-Cloud, Security & Flexibility20:30 – Containerization & Edge Compute21:30 – Zero Trust (Including AI Agents)22:30 – Future-Proofing Industrial Systems24:00 – The “Tearing Down 30 Years” Moment25:00 – Outro & Final ThoughtsPresented by Opsite Energy: www.opsitenergy.comMusic: Uygar Duzgun / “Fast Life” courtesy of www.epidemicsound.com

ICS & SCADA Cybersecurity Reality: Why OT Systems Are Still Insecure | Dale Peterson - Ep 066

In this episode of the Energy Tech Podcast, recorded live at ENTELEC 2026, we sit down with Dale Peterson, founder of S4 Events and one of the pioneers in ICS and SCADA cybersecurity.With over 25 years in industrial cybersecurity, Dale breaks down a hard truth:👉 Most OT systems are still insecure by design.We dive into:Why 80%+ of industrial systems remain vulnerableThe concept of “insecure by design” protocolsWhy OT cybersecurity progress has been so slowThe real meaning of risk vs cyber hygieneHow to think about AI, cloud, and security in OT environmentsWhy “doing everything” in cybersecurity often does nothingHow to prioritize real risk reduction over checklistsThis conversation challenges conventional thinking and gives operators, engineers, and leaders a practical framework for securing industrial environments.🎧 If you're responsible for SCADA, OT, or critical infrastructure — this is a must-watch.⏱️ Chapters00:00 – Intro: Live from ENTELEC 202600:40 – Meet Dale Peterson (S4 Events)01:10 – How Dale Got Into ICS Cybersecurity (By Accident)02:00 – The Origin of S4 Events & Building the ICS Security Community03:00 – The “Cyber Poor” Problem in OT04:00 – Why OT Cybersecurity Still Lags Behind05:20 – “Insecure by Design” Systems Explained06:30 – Why Nothing Has Changed (Yet)07:00 – What Will Finally Drive Change in OT Security08:30 – Keynote Breakdown: Connect, Consider, Consequence09:00 – AI & Connectivity: New Risks Emerging09:30 – Why Security Leaders Must PRIORITIZE (Not Do Everything)10:00 – Rethinking Risk: Reducing Consequences vs Preventing Attacks11:00 – Why CISOs Can’t Just Say “No” Anymore12:00 – The Reality of Limited Resources in OT13:00 – Why “Cyber Hygiene” Doesn’t Always Reduce Risk14:00 – What Actually Moves the Risk Needle15:30 – Purdue Model vs Unified Namespace Debate17:00 – AI in OT: Security vs Value18:30 – Protecting Data in the Age of AI20:00 – Real-World Example: Remote Control Risks in OT21:30 – Risk Management vs Blind Trust23:00 – Where to Find Dale & Closing ThoughtsPresented by Opsite Energy: www.opsitenergy.comMusic: Uygar Duzgun / “Fast Life” courtesy of www.epidemicsound.com

AI in Industrial Operations: Why You’re NOT Ready Yet | Lindi Sabloff at ENTELEC 2026 - Ep065

In this episode of the Energy Tech Podcast, recorded live at ENTELEC 2026 in Galveston, we sit down with Lindi Sabloff, Founder & CEO, to discuss the reality of AI adoption in industrial sectors like oil & gas and manufacturing.While AI dominates headlines, Lindi breaks down a critical truth: most industrial companies are not ready for AI yet.We dive deep into:Why data quality and infrastructure must come before AIThe importance of edge computing vs cloud-first strategiesHow to empower OT teams instead of replacing themThe real challenges of digital transformation in brownfield environmentsWhy people—not technology—are the hardest part of transformationThis conversation is a must-watch for operators, engineers, and executives navigating the intersection of AI, SCADA, and industrial data strategy.👉 If you're responsible for operations, automation, or digital transformation — this episode will challenge how you think about AI readiness.🎧 Listen now and learn how to build the foundation before chasing AI hype.⏱️ Chapters00:00 – Intro: Live from ENTELEC 202600:40 – Meet Lindi Sabloff: From Wall Street to Industrial Tech02:30 – The “Aha Moment” That Changed Everything04:30 – Why Technology Must Fit People (Not the Other Way Around)05:30 – The Truth About AI Replacing Jobs06:30 – OT Workforce Challenges & Attrition07:30 – Why Industrial Companies Aren’t Ready for AI08:30 – Data Quality: The Biggest Problem in the Industry10:00 – Edge vs Cloud: Where AI Should Actually Live11:00 – The “6 Week AI” Myth (And Why It’s Wrong)12:30 – Data Lineage & Semantic Layers Explained14:00 – M&A, Data Standardization, and Scaling Operations15:00 – The People Problem in Digital Transformation17:00 – Brownfield Reality: Why You Can’t “Rip & Replace”19:00 – Real-Time vs Time-Series Data Strategy21:00 – Leadership, Mindset, and Building Technology Companies23:00 – Marrying Business Outcomes with Technology25:00 – How Lindi’s Company Delivers Value to OT Teams27:00 – Remote Operations, Fleet Updates & Cost Savings29:00 – Cybersecurity, Patch Management & OT Control30:30 – Edge Devices, Security Risks, and Future-Proofing31:30 – AI in the Next 1–2 Years: What Happens Next32:15 – Outro & Final ThoughtsPresented by Opsite Energy: www.opsitenergy.comMusic: Uygar Duzgun / “Fast Life” courtesy of www.epidemicsound.com

Ignition Pump-Off Control (IPOC) Explained - AI, SCADA & Oilfield Optimization w/ Avadine Ep 064

In this episode of the Energy Tech Podcast, we sit down with Avadine to explore Ignition-native Pump-Off Control (IPO) — a modern approach to well optimization built on the Ignition SCADA platform.We dive into how IPO is transforming traditional pump-off control systems by eliminating data silos, reducing costs, and enabling real-time optimization across thousands of wells.This episode also explores how AI is being applied to dynamometer card analysis, helping operators identify issues, improve production, and reduce LOE without relying on expensive legacy systems.From field operations to enterprise data strategies, this conversation highlights what it really means to be AI-ready in oil & gas.Key Topics Covered:Ignition-based pump-off control (IPO)Replacing legacy SCADA and paywall systemsAI-driven dynamometer card analysisData ownership, UNS, and AI readinessRemote well control and optimizationReducing LOE and improving production efficiencyIf you're a production engineer, SCADA developer, or operations leader — this is a must-watch.👉 Learn how to modernize your well optimization strategy👉 Subscribe for more SCADA, OT, and control room insights00:00 – Introduction & Guest Overview01:30 – What is Avdine & IPO?04:30 – From Field Operator to SCADA Architect07:00 – Why Legacy SCADA Systems Are Failing10:00 – The Pump-Off Control Problem in Oil & Gas12:00 – Why IPO is Built on Ignition14:00 – Breaking Data Silos in Well Optimization16:00 – Legacy Platforms vs Modern SCADA18:00 – IPO Demo Overview24:00 – Protocols: Modbus, OPC, MQTT Explained27:30 – Real-Time Well Monitoring & Control29:30 – Dynamometer Cards in Ignition32:00 – AI for Card Analysis & Optimization35:00 – AI Recommendations in Action38:00 – AI in Oil & Gas: Hype vs Reality40:00 – Data Architecture: UDTs, JSON & AI Readiness43:00 – Zero-ETL & Enterprise Integration45:00 – Remote Control, Setpoints & Configuration47:00 – Disaster Recovery & Configuration Tracking49:00 – AI for Production Optimization50:30 – Reducing LOE & Increasing Runtime52:00 – How to Get Started (Pilot Strategy)54:30 – Final Thoughts & Call to Action