Hydro’s Glen Powell joined Plant Services’ chief editor Tom Wilk to talk about the evolving challenges of workforce development in the maintenance and reliability space. The conversation also touches on the role of emerging technologies like AI in reliability workflows and dives deep into vibration analysis, including its limitations and advanced applications for diagnosing issues like resonance.

Key Takeaways

• Formal training alone isn’t enough—intentional, hands-on experience accelerates workforce readiness.
• Bridging generational gaps requires clear career paths and trust in leadership follow-through.
• AI tools should support, not replace, critical thinking and field expertise on the plant floor.
• Modal analysis and motion amplification are powerful tools to diagnose and fix elusive resonance issues in aging equipment.

You can listen to the podcast below or browse all of Plant Services’ Great Question podcasts here.

Want to expand your knowledge? Explore Plant Services magazine or read our case studies focused on Hydro’s work in troubleshooting and vibration analysis.