Why Companies Are Embracing Large Language Models and Automation Techniques to Increase Productivity and Employee Satisfaction
History shows that innovation often drives seismic shifts in our lives and work. For example, between 1908 and 1927, the Ford Model T replaced horse-drawn carriages as the primary mode of transportation in the U.S. and between 1930 and 1950, electricity became a standard feature in every household in America. Innovations may have been received as unwelcome disruptions but, in most cases, end up being appreciated as profoundly empowering in modern day society.
Today, we stand at a similar turning point. Artificial Intelligence (AI) and automation are reshaping industries, workflows and the skills needed to succeed. The utility sector is no exception. While some fear AI will replace human workers, the reality is far more reassuring: AI is here to complement and enhance human capabilities, streamlining everyday monotonous tasks while also supporting complex initiatives like grid modernization and asset management. AI use cases hold great potential to free up valuable time and resources to resolve our greatest challenges and push key trends forward.
But what about the utility workforce itself? How can AI address critical challenges like the growing skills gap, the loss of institutional knowledge and the rise of highly specialized roles? How can the shift to AI-driven automation support upskilling engineers and technicians, ensuring preparedness for the future of work?
Let’s consider how AI and automation are transforming the utility industry, and the workforce challenges it helps solve.
Cataloging Institutional Knowledge
One of the greatest challenges utilities face is the impending retirement of seasoned workers with decades of institutional knowledge. The ability to capture and transfer expertise ensures continuity and efficiency in the workforce. AI tools like proprietary large language models can be leveraged to ingest, structure and catalog the invaluable wisdom of veterans, making it accessible to future generations of engineers and technicians.
These models function like digital “mentors,” providing more than data but hard–gained insights, troubleshooting strategies and best practices that would otherwise be lost with workforce turnover. By feeding real-world scenarios, past case studies and expert commentary into AI systems, via carefully crafted exit questionnaires or interviews, utilities can create an interactive knowledge base that supports training and problem solving. This way lessons learned over decades are not only preserved but continuously refined and made available for those who need them most.
Example:
In 2017, a wastewater treatment plant in the northwestern US experienced a series of failed equipment, which was improperly maintained, and caused a catastrophic backflow event, damaging assets and requiring significant recovery time. The root cause? A lack of institutional knowledge. AI tools can provide step-by-step guidance for tasks, appropriate to the context of the situation, ensuring such mistakes are avoided.
Customizing Training for Individual Learners
AI-generated training materials make upskilling accessible to everyone, regardless of learning style. Workers who prefer visual content can access AI-generated diagrams or video tutorials, while text-based learners can receive detailed written instructions. This tailored approach meets workers where they are, accelerating their learning and building confidence.
Example:
AI-powered onboarding programs can familiarize new hires with complex systems quickly, shortening their time to become self-reliant. These programs adapt to the learner’s pace and skill level, ensuring consistent progress.
Bridging the Skills Gap with Specialized Training
The shift to AI-powered grid operations and analytics is expected to introduce highly technical roles that require new skill sets. AI and automation simplify these challenges by providing real-time data insights, simulations and decision-making tools.
Example:
In a digital age, those who are well equipped with skills to adopt technology are more likely to sooner experience the fruits of their labor. These skills include the ability to craft effective prompts for AI tools, critical thinking to distinguish between good data and bad data and understand AI-generated mistaken outputs also known as AI confabulation. By developing these skills, workers become better equipped to collaborate with AI and navigate complex systems confidently.
Accelerating Workforce Readiness
Training new hires traditionally takes months if not years. AI reduces this timeline by offering on-demand knowledge and hands-on simulations. By integrating AI tools into training programs, utilities can build self-reliant teams faster than ever before.
Example:
An AI-readiness assessment helps utilities evaluate their technological literacy. They can identify areas for improvement across the organization, including software, applications and data, regulatory readiness, staffing, and more. These assessments enhance AI maturity by developing solution concepts and roadmaps for seamless adoption. Change management training ensures a smooth transition, fostering a culture of learning and adaptation while equipping teams with the skills needed to manage AI-driven processed effectively.
Promoting Collaboration Between Humans and Machines
AI is not a replacement for human expertise; it’s a force multiplier. By automating repetitive tasks, AI allows workers to focus on strategic decision-making and complex problem-solving. This collaboration enhances productivity and workforce value, positioning utilities for long-term success.
Example:
Digital natives—those who have grown up with smartphones and apps—are well-suited to adapt to AI-driven workflows. Utilities can leverage familiar paradigms, like the user-friendly interfaces of Amazon or Uber, to make AI tools intuitive for new workers.
Next Steps
The utility workforce is at a crossroads, and AI and automation are the tools that will pave the way forward. By digitally capturing institutional knowledge, customizing training and fostering collaboration, utilities can address critical workforce challenges while preparing their teams for the future.
Change management serves as the critical bridge connecting advanced tools with an AI-ready workforce. It begins with understanding an organization’s current level of technological literacy and identifying gaps before implementing AI solutions. It requires companies to build buy-in through clear communication and leadership to address fears and skepticism. Moreover, organizations must tailor training to ensure workers have the confidence and skills to use AI tools effectively.
By fostering cultural shifts that promote AI as a tool for empowerment rather than a threat to jobs, utilities can reinforce the benefits of AI adoption, boosting momentum and engagement. They can designate “change champions” within teams-individuals who advocate for the technology and mentor their colleagues, ensuring a smoother transition and greater acceptance across the workforce.
The question utilities should ask themselves today is not whether they will adopt AI but how they can use AI to empower their workforce and increase employee satisfaction. With the right tools, training and change management strategies, possibilities abound.
TRC Can Help
At TRC, we understand that navigating the transition to AI and automation in the utility sector requires more than just technology—it demands a strategic approach to workforce development. TRC’s AI solutions leverage AI and advanced tools to address utility challenges. We serve as both an AI solutions provider and integrator. Our expertise ensures utilities can implement these technologies effectively while empowering teams to thrive in an AI-driven environment.
In addition to technical expertise, TRC Power Academy offers industry-leading training programs designed to upskill engineers and technicians for future success. Focusing on real-world applications and tailored learning experiences, these programs equip utility workers with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed. Whether through self-paced online courses, instructor-led sessions, or hands-on simulations, TRC Power Academy helps bridge the skills gap and prepares teams to excel in modern grid operations.
Ready to embrace the future of utilities? TRC is here to guide you every step of the way. Reach out to learn more about how we can support your workforce transformation.
