What happens when nearly seven decades of experience step into the room?

In this special episode, SMECO legends Ronnie Wise and Roger Schneider share their remarkable journeys from entry-level roles to senior leadership—charting a course through decades of industry change, innovation, and growth. From handwritten outage tickets to SCADA automation and managing 300+ employees, they’ve seen it all.

Key themes explored:

• The evolution of electric utility technology
• Storm response and 24/7 operations
• Building teams and preparing the next generation
  
  

Whether you’re curious about SMECO’s history, inspired by career growth, or interested in what it takes to keep the power on—this one’s for you. Tap in to hear how Ronnie and Roger helped shape the future of energy in Southern Maryland.

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🎙️ Follow SMECO:
Instagram: @somdelectric
X (Twitter): @somdelectric

👋 Hosted by: Sonja Cox & Tom Dennison

Ever wondered why your electric bill spikes in summer and winter?

In this episode, Smeco’s VP of Rates and Energy Procurement Eugene Bradford pulls back the curtain on how your monthly bill is built—from competitive power market purchases to the poles and wires that deliver electricity to your door. He walks us through load forecasting, rate classes, and the rising costs driven by renewables mandates and the push for future battery storage.

Key Takeaways:

• How Smeco’s power procurement strategy keeps your supply costs as low as possible
• Why distribution infrastructure rates cover poles, transformers, and grid maintenance
• The impact of renewable portfolio standards and what long-duration storage means for 24/7 green power

Join us to demystify your electric bill and spark your energy awareness.

Guest:
Eugene Bradford
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eugene-bradford-87992666

Hosts:
Sonja Cox & Tom Dennison
Smeco Social Media:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/somdelectric
X (Twitter): https://x.com/somdelectric

What does it take to climb a 40-foot pole in record time — with your reputation (and bragging rights) on the line?

In this episode of SMECO Connects, host Sonja Cox and co-host Tom Dennison sit down with linemen John King, Doug Hancock, and apprentices Cameron Russell and Josh Morris. Together, they pull back the curtain on the electrifying world of the Lineman’s Rodeo — a high-stakes competition where skill, speed, and safety collide.

• Discover the heart-pounding events like Hurt Man Rescue and obstacle climbs
  
  

• Learn how camaraderie and a brotherhood of linemen fuel both competition and real-life mutual aid during storms
  
  

• Hear why apprentices keep coming back, even after tough first years
  
  

• Peek behind the scenes at traditions like t-shirt swapping and the competitive BBQ showdown
  
  

From tales of climbing techniques to stories of lifelong friendships formed under high voltage, this episode is a tribute to the grit, pride, and passion that power our electric grid.

Tune in and feel the spark that keeps the lights on — and the linemen climbing.

🔗 Smeco Instagram: @somdelectric
🔗 Smeco X (Twitter): @somdelectric

Hosted by Sonja Cox and Tom Dennison