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We sit down with BICSI’s CEO to unpack why the fall conference is being rebuilt around immersive learning, real-time feedback, and six convergence-focused tracks. The goal is simple: stronger outcomes for installers, designers, and PMs who need practical tools for an AI-driven, wireless-first, data-hungry world.

• Purpose and benefits of the BICSI Beyond redesign
• From passive sessions to interactive, debate-led formats
• Post-pandemic momentum and why change is urgent
• Talent shortage and workforce development priorities
• Six tracks: intelligent infrastructure, wireless, AI, AV and security, data centers, professional development
• Measuring success through live polling and surveys
• New CEC routes via volunteering and ethics training
• Investments in microlearning and the BICSI Navigator
• How veterans stay anchored while formats evolve
• Team attendance, synergy, and take-home impact

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Knowledge is power! Make sure to stop by the webpage to buy me a cup of coffee or support the show at https://linktr.ee/letstalkcabling . Also if you would like to be a guest on the show or have a topic for discussion send me an email at chuck@letstalkcabling.com

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We bust five myths about BICSI conferences with concrete tactics for first-timers, field techs, and designers. From committee work to exhibit hall strategy, we show how to translate networking and standards into real jobsite wins and long-term career growth.

• conferences not just for designers, clear entry points for technicians
• why first-timers session and BICSI Village matter
• how to sit in on committees and add field insight
• planning your agenda with the app for ROI
• vendor agnostic talks and value of keynotes
• exhibit hall strategy to solve real problems
• networking tactics for introverts
• building a living library of standards and best practice
• career lift stories and mentoring mindsets
• educate clients rather than sell features

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Knowledge is power! Make sure to stop by the webpage to buy me a cup of coffee or support the show at https://linktr.ee/letstalkcabling . Also if you would like to be a guest on the show or have a topic for discussion send me an email at chuck@letstalkcabling.com

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We make the case for training as the fastest way to fix the low voltage talent gap and the surest path to mastery for working techs, leads, and managers. Practical tactics, field stories, and metrics show how to teach adults, keep attention, and prove ROI without a big budget.

• why training creates mastery, credibility, and purpose
• the trainer trifecta and adult learning principles
• Saturday 66‑block story and honoring admitted gaps
• industry shortfall and building a youth pipeline
• setting expectations, explaining the why, rewarding wins
• correcting in private and using guiding questions
• pairing strong and new techs, micro‑lessons, competition
• measuring impact with time, retest, and callback data
• engaging sessions with hands‑on gear and simple visuals
• starting as a trainer without a title or budget
• good vs great trainers and adapting on the fly
• humility, continuous learning, and teach‑backs

Make sure you stay tuned to the podcast because there's lots and lots of good stuff coming down. So until next time, remember, knowledge is power.

Support the show

Knowledge is power! Make sure to stop by the webpage to buy me a cup of coffee or support the show at https://linktr.ee/letstalkcabling . Also if you would like to be a guest on the show or have a topic for discussion send me an email at chuck@letstalkcabling.com

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We break down NEC 2026 with a focus on clarity, consistency, and how the reorganization impacts limited energy systems from design to inspection. Chapter 8 loses independence, new Articles 720–723, 742, and 750 reshape daily practice, and Class 4 power takes a step forward.

• purpose of the NEC as safety and minimum construction quality
• how the code is structured and why legal language confuses
• role and variety of AHJs and why interpretation matters
• end of Chapter 8 independence and why it changes workflows
• shift from low voltage to limited energy terminology
• deletion and migration of 770, 805, 840 content into new articles
• overview of Articles 720, 721, 722, 723, 742, 750
• class 4 fault-managed power fundamentals and benefits
• alignment between electrical and ICT trades for inspections
• adoption timelines and why to learn 2026 early
• what installers, PMs, and estimators should update now

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And if it's not a five-star rated show, reach out to me and let me know what I can do to make this a five-star rated show.
Wednesday night, 6 p.m. Eastern Standard Time, what are you doing? You know we do a live stream on TikTok, Instagram, Facebook... where you get to ask your favorite RCDD questions...
If you find value in this content, would you click on that QR code right there? You can buy me a cup of coffee... schedule a 15-minute one-on-one... or buy Let's Talk Cabling merchandise.
Email Chuck at advertising at letstalkcabling.com and let's connect your brand to the right audience today. 

Support the show

Knowledge is power! Make sure to stop by the webpage to buy me a cup of coffee or support the show at https://linktr.ee/letstalkcabling . Also if you would like to be a guest on the show or have a topic for discussion send me an email at chuck@letstalkcabling.com

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We explore how field innovation keeps outrunning the standards, why extended copper links beyond 100 meters are gaining momentum, and what TIA’s new TSB could mean for testing, warranties, and contracts. We share practical steps for techs, PMs, and designers to push the edge without getting burned.

• standards lag and field innovation tension 
• permanent link versus channel clarified 
• certification vs qualification and warranty conflict 
• extended-distance solutions and GameChanger disruption 
• TIA TR-42.7 call for interest for TSB 5073 
• tester configuration for beyond-100m evaluations 
• documentation and manufacturer sign-off practices 
• PM risk, contracts, and stakeholder education 
• designer estimating, thermal and alien crosstalk margins 
• getting involved in committees and sharing empirical data

If you're watching this show on YouTube, would you mind hitting the subscribe button and that bell button to be notified when new content is being produced? If you're listening to us on one of the audio podcast platforms, would you mind leaving us a five-star rating? While this show is free and will always remain free, if you find value in this content, would you mind clicking on that QR button right there? You can buy me a cup of coffee. You can even become a monthly contributor to this podcast. Just all and you can even buy Let's Talk Cabling t-shirts. Join the community today at LowVoltagenation.com or jump into the conversation at our Facebook group. Email Chuck at advertising at letstalkcabling.com and let's connect your brand to the right audience today. Visit GoFar on LinkedIn or click on the link in the description below. Go subscribe to Cable Installation and Maintenance Magazine right now before you forget.

Support the show

Knowledge is power! Make sure to stop by the webpage to buy me a cup of coffee or support the show at https://linktr.ee/letstalkcabling . Also if you would like to be a guest on the show or have a topic for discussion send me an email at chuck@letstalkcabling.com

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We pick up the live stream after a rough month and dive straight into the most asked questions on getting into limited energy: tools, licenses, certifications, first-day tactics, site safety, career ladders, and the real work behind the title. Along the way, we flag code changes for 2026, unravel myths about sprinklers, and share practical tips to stand out from day one.

• limited energy rebrand, PBB acronym, upcoming episodes on 2026 code and extended Ethernet
• what counts as low voltage across structured cabling, access control, DAS, fire alarm, fiber
• PoE beyond access points, smart buildings, IoT as growth paths
• licensing differences for workers vs companies, union considerations
• when to buy tools, buy once buy right, what basics to expect
• BICSI Tech prep, FiberU.org, test-only pitfalls, cost reality
• certifications vs on-the-job learning, signaling commitment
• entry roles, quality checks, documenting and communicating
• daily life: early starts, PPE, lifts, crawlspaces, teamwork with other trades
• career ladder from helper to PM to leadership, specialization options
• construction site rules and culture, safety orientations, logistics
• mistakes to avoid: not listening, rushing, poor labeling, cable protection
• sprinkler pipe code reminder: nothing touches, compliance first
• first-day playbook: arrive early, ask questions, write notes, quality before speed

Support the show

Knowledge is power! Make sure to stop by the webpage to buy me a cup of coffee or support the show at https://linktr.ee/letstalkcabling . Also if you would like to be a guest on the show or have a topic for discussion send me an email at chuck@letstalkcabling.com

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Tonight we bring back an fan favorite as I travel this week...

We unpack how to test copper the right way—permanent link, channel, and especially MPTL—and why choosing the correct limit and adapters is the difference between clean passes and costly callbacks. We also make the business case for certification, show how labeling workflows save hours, and explain how to fix wrong category tests without rolling a truck.

• standards‑aligned testing for permanent link and channel
• MPTL use cases and category‑specific adapters
• test planes and why field plugs must be measured
• certification vs qualification vs verification value
• cost, calibration, and long‑term warranties
• pricing and communicating deliverables to clients
• labeling schemes, CSV list‑based workflows, and consistency
• wrong category limits and software re‑certifying
• corporate test plans, training, and maintenance
• Cat 8 capability vs practical needs

Join the community today at LowVoltagenation.com or jump into the conversation at our Facebook group
Follow the journey on Instagram and Twitter at Uncle Bear underscore and at Security Today Podcast

Support the show

Knowledge is power! Make sure to stop by the webpage to buy me a cup of coffee or support the show at https://linktr.ee/letstalkcabling . Also if you would like to be a guest on the show or have a topic for discussion send me an email at chuck@letstalkcabling.com

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We are back from a short hiatus, between NECA2025 and a trainng week in Ohio I literally ran out of time.

Inside sales representatives are the unsung heroes of the ICT industry who often save contractors from costly mistakes and provide valuable information that improves bid efficiency. Jalen Barnes, who started his career in 2015 and worked his way up to owning his own distribution company, shares insights into how these vital relationships function.

• Inside sales reps juggle constant calls, emails, and texts while serving as mediators between field techs, project managers, and manufacturers
• Different stakeholders have different priorities – field techs focus on getting the job done while project managers care about costs
• Providing detailed information in your requests (especially for products like fiber) speeds up response time and reduces errors
• Great customers look out for their distributors by being considerate of freight minimums and other logistical challenges
• Building relationships with inside sales reps leads to preferential treatment when emergencies arise
• Returns at project end can create challenges – consider keeping excess material for future projects when possible
• The golden rule according to Jalen: "Time is everything" – respect this principle in all communications
• New industry professionals should openly acknowledge their inexperience, as most sales reps will gladly help them learn

Join us every Wednesday night at 6 pm Eastern Standard Time for a live stream where you can ask your favorite RCDD questions about installation, design, certification, credentialing, and career paths.

Support the show

Knowledge is power! Make sure to stop by the webpage to buy me a cup of coffee or support the show at https://linktr.ee/letstalkcabling . Also if you would like to be a guest on the show or have a topic for discussion send me an email at chuck@letstalkcabling.com

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We take a special tour of the IBW 357 Southern Nevada Chapter NECA Electrical Training Facility in Las Vegas, exploring their comprehensive apprenticeship programs and state-of-the-art training labs for ICT professionals.

• Tour guide Matthew Apfel, Assistant Training Director, showcases the 25,000 square foot facility with 10 classrooms and 10 attached labs
• The facility houses two separate apprenticeship programs: telecommunications installer technician (6,500 hours) and inside journeyman wireman (8,000 hours)
• Hands-on training includes access control systems, where students interact with live systems and networks
• The PoE and fault managed power lab features multiple racks that simulate live networks and installations
• Students learn fusion splicing using equipment from partners like Fiber Fox, including training on specialized OPGW (Optical Power Ground Wire)
• Training incorporates both legacy systems (66 blocks, Krone blocks) and modern technologies
• Fire life safety system training prepares students for Nevada State Fire Marshal certification
• The instrumentation and cybersecurity lab teaches students about modern building automation, SCADA systems, and secure network-connected devices

If you're watching this show on YouTube and you like this content, please hit the bell button and subscribe to be notified when new content is produced. If you're listening on one of the audio podcast platforms, please leave us a five-star rating to help us take on the algorithm.

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Knowledge is power! Make sure to stop by the webpage to buy me a cup of coffee or support the show at https://linktr.ee/letstalkcabling . Also if you would like to be a guest on the show or have a topic for discussion send me an email at chuck@letstalkcabling.com

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As Chuck continues to heal from surgery, we offer this replay of one of the most popular lives streams from 2023!

Our industry often incorrectly labels lead technicians as project managers without providing proper training or understanding of the role's responsibilities. We explore seven critical habits that separate successful telecommunications project managers from the rest.

• Monitoring labor and material budgets is the most crucial project management responsibility
• Project managers must create comprehensive schedules so everyone knows expectations and timelines
• Being prepared with detailed checklists standardizes procedures and creates measurable progress
• Planning for risk through SWOT analysis and contingency planning prevents project derailment
• Active listening techniques build trust with clients and team members
• Balancing control with team autonomy creates efficiency while maintaining standards
• Delegation develops team members' skills while allowing managers to focus on critical tasks
• Servant leadership breaks down the "us versus them" mentality between managers and crews
• Continuous learning prevents stagnation in an industry that "changes at the speed of light"

The best way to be successful in telecommunications project management is to remember that knowledge is power.

Support the show

Knowledge is power! Make sure to stop by the webpage to buy me a cup of coffee or support the show at https://linktr.ee/letstalkcabling . Also if you would like to be a guest on the show or have a topic for discussion send me an email at chuck@letstalkcabling.com

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Distributed Edge Architecture is revolutionizing the structured cabling industry by decentralizing network intelligence and bringing connectivity directly to where it's needed. This approach dramatically reduces cable runs, simplifies infrastructure, and provides unprecedented flexibility for future modifications while delivering significant cost savings.

• Chris Hanshaw, Technology Director for Nicholas County Schools, implemented DEA in the rebuild of Richwood School after flooding
• The school eliminated multiple telecom rooms, saving approximately $100,000 per room in real estate value
• Fault managed power (FMP) converts AC to DC at a central location, distributing power via smaller, less expensive cabling
• Each classroom receives 10Gb connectivity with capacity for 100Gb through dormant single-mode fiber
• Commercial buildings can eliminate up to 80% of copper infrastructure with corresponding labor savings
• Jon Fine from Vision Technologies is implementing DEA in a 270,000 sq ft commercial building aiming for net-zero
• The system uses 157 "bit boxes" instead of multiple IDFs, all fed from a single MDF
• Modular, off-site construction allows for faster installation, better quality control, and reduced on-site labor
• Future applications include healthcare environments where minimizing disruption during changes is critical
• Class 4 power is now in the National Electric Code (Article 726), making it an established standard

If you're watching this show on YouTube and you like this content, please hit the subscribe button and the bell button to be notified when new content is being produced. Join us Wednesday nights at 6pm Eastern for live Q&A with your favorite RCDD.

Support the show

Knowledge is power! Make sure to stop by the webpage to buy me a cup of coffee or support the show at https://linktr.ee/letstalkcabling . Also if you would like to be a guest on the show or have a topic for discussion send me an email at chuck@letstalkcabling.com

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Breaking beyond the conventional 100-meter cable limit isn't just possible—it's becoming essential in today's expanding network environments. This deep dive into extended distance cabling reveals how manufacturers are pushing boundaries with specialized solutions that extend connectivity to 150-200 meters without sacrificing reliability.

Steve Cowles steps in for Chuck to explore the critical factors that make extended distance cabling work. From the fundamentals of heavier gauge conductors to the crucial role of DC resistance unbalance (DCRU) in maintaining Power over Ethernet performance, you'll gain practical insights into when and how to implement these non-standard yet vital solutions. The discussion highlights why proper testing methodologies matter, how termination hardware selection affects extended distance performance, and why not all network equipment responds equally well to longer cable runs.

The conversation takes an exciting turn toward Single-Pair Ethernet (SPE)—a fully standardized alternative that stretches connectivity to an astonishing 1,000 meters while delivering power and 10Mbps bandwidth. Perfect for cameras, sensors, and access control systems, SPE represents the future for many specialized applications. Steve breaks down the power delivery capabilities at various distances and explains the unique testing requirements that differ significantly from traditional four-pair certification.

Whether you're struggling with that one device just beyond standard reach or designing systems for sprawling industrial environments, this episode equips you with the knowledge to confidently implement extended distance solutions. Subscribe to Let's Talk Cabling for more expert insights that bridge the gap between industry standards and real-world networking challenges.

Support the show

Knowledge is power! Make sure to stop by the webpage to buy me a cup of coffee or support the show at https://linktr.ee/letstalkcabling . Also if you would like to be a guest on the show or have a topic for discussion send me an email at chuck@letstalkcabling.com

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Let's Talk Cabling celebrates its five-year anniversary with special giveaways, reflections on the podcast's evolution, and glimpses of exciting future content. Chuck shares his journey from recording in a closet to building an award-winning podcast with 18,000 followers and nearly 200,000 monthly views across platforms.

• Started as "Five Minutes with an RCDD" before evolving into Let's Talk Cabling
• Now features 338 episodes covering technical topics, business strategies, and industry insights
• Serves two distinct audiences: field technicians and industry leadership
• Expanded to include Lunchbox Learnables and Gallery of the Grotesque content series
• Most popular audio episode focuses on certifications and why they matter
• Most viewed YouTube video addresses bonding and grounding
• Plans to create content on mental health challenges in the low voltage industry
• Special guest interviews coming up include discussions with Bixie CEO and Oberon
• RCDD study groups have helped many advance their careers

Support the show by becoming a Patreon member at patreon.com/letstalkcabling. Until next time, remember: knowledge is power.

Support the show

Knowledge is power! Make sure to stop by the webpage to buy me a cup of coffee or support the show at https://linktr.ee/letstalkcabling . Also if you would like to be a guest on the show or have a topic for discussion send me an email at chuck@letstalkcabling.com

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Chuck shares his eye-opening experience at BICSI Beyond 2025 in Las Vegas, revealing industry shifts and technological developments that will impact ICT professionals. The conference highlighted alarming workforce demographics and showcased emerging technologies that could transform how cable installation is performed.

• Introduction to Challenge Coins as special recognition tokens for major contributors to the podcast
• Recording of interviews with John Daniels (BICSI CEO), Chuck Wilson, and Matt Affel from the JATC
• Participation in multiple committee meetings including the new ICT Lifecycle Management Training Committee
• Updates on industry standards including revisions to the N1, N2, and N3 documents
• Insights from Matthew Griffin's keynote about AI's impact on ICT, including cable-pulling robots
• Industry statistics showing 67% of low voltage workers are over 40 and only 13% under 30
• Revelation of 9.9 million job vacancies in the low voltage industry
• Exhibit hall highlights including new cable testing technology from Trend Networks

If you enjoy this content, please consider becoming a Patreon member to support the podcast. Your contributions help me represent your interests at industry events and committees while creating valuable content for the ICT community.

Support the show

Knowledge is power! Make sure to stop by the webpage to buy me a cup of coffee or support the show at https://linktr.ee/letstalkcabling . Also if you would like to be a guest on the show or have a topic for discussion send me an email at chuck@letstalkcabling.com

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Doug Greenwald shares his journey from skilled technician to successful integration business owner, revealing how he developed Projects360 software to solve the unique project management challenges of low-voltage companies.

• Starting a low-voltage business requires shifting from working IN the business to working ON the business
• Standard operating procedures (SOPs) are critical for growth and should be implemented while companies are still small
• The "last 5%" of projects (documentation, testing, closeout) often prevents final payment and reduces profitability
• Weekly operations meetings that include lead technicians create project ownership and improve communication
• Project management software should be industry-specific to address the unique workflows of low-voltage contracting
• Projects360 offers integrated CRM, proposal generation, project management, scheduling, and inventory tracking
• Small companies aren't "too small" for proper systems—implementing processes early makes scaling easier later
• Change orders and project tracking capabilities help maintain profitability and prevent scope creep
• QuickBooks integration streamlines invoicing and financial management

If you find value in this content, consider clicking the QR code on screen to buy Chuck a cup of coffee or schedule a 15-minute one-on-one call. Join us Wednesday nights at 6pm Eastern Standard Time for live streaming on TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and LinkedIn where you can ask your favorite RCDD questions.

Support the show

Knowledge is power! Make sure to stop by the webpage to buy me a cup of coffee or support the show at https://linktr.ee/letstalkcabling . Also if you would like to be a guest on the show or have a topic for discussion send me an email at chuck@letstalkcabling.com

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Chuck Bowser, RCDD, shares essential knowledge for those transitioning from traditional electrical work to the specialized world of low voltage and ICT installation. His comprehensive guide covers critical resources, industry standards, and career development strategies.

• FOA Reference Guides provide clear explanations with diagrams for fiber optic theory, connectors, and testing
• Electricians should study NEC Articles 725, 760, 726, 770 and Chapter 8 for low voltage applications 
• BICSI manuals like ITSIM and TDMM offer detailed guidelines for installation techniques and design standards
• Hands-on practice with termination kits and tools is essential before working in production environments
• Successful transition requires shifting from code-centric thinking to standards-driven performance mindset
• J-hook installation requires wide bases, under 50 cables per hook, proper spacing, and mounting to structural supports
• RCDD candidates with field experience have a significant advantage when entering the design profession
• New technologies like fault-managed power systems and single-pair Ethernet represent exciting opportunities

Contact me to discuss chapter 10 of the TDMM or other questions about your RCDD preparation. Join me at BICSI Beyond in Las Vegas!

Support the show

Knowledge is power! Make sure to stop by the webpage to buy me a cup of coffee or support the show at https://linktr.ee/letstalkcabling . Also if you would like to be a guest on the show or have a topic for discussion send me an email at chuck@letstalkcabling.com

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Distribution companies serve as translators between stakeholders in the ICT industry, helping to bridge communication gaps and solve problems before they become costly mistakes. Anthony from Wise Components shares insights on how distributors add value beyond just supplying products, from emergency response to catching errors in orders and specifications.

• Distribution companies communicate with all stakeholders including manufacturers, contractors, project managers, and end-users
• Emergency response capabilities demonstrated by rapid delivery after the 345 Park Avenue incident in NYC
• Inside salespeople catch errors in bills of materials and project specifications
• Product expertise helps contractors avoid ordering wrong materials or forgetting essential components
• Distributors help resolve product issues, as shown in a case where 60,000 feet of defective cable was replaced
• Weekly follow-ups on large projects maintain communication and prevent problems
• Distributors offer free educational training events for contractors and industry professionals
• Distribution provides better quality assurance than general online retailers like Amazon
• Reputable distributors only carry products that meet certification requirements like UL and TIA

If you're watching this show on YouTube, would you mind hitting the subscribe button and the bell button to be notified when new content is being produced? If you're listening on one of the audio podcast platforms, would you mind giving us a five-star rating?

Support the show

Knowledge is power! Make sure to stop by the webpage to buy me a cup of coffee or support the show at https://linktr.ee/letstalkcabling . Also if you would like to be a guest on the show or have a topic for discussion send me an email at chuck@letstalkcabling.com

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We break down nine essential traits of successful project managers and provide practical tips for developing these skills to advance your career in the ICT industry.

• Leadership qualities including leading by example and making decisions under pressure
• Organizational skills for tracking projects and maintaining documentation
• Assuming authority appropriately in meetings and client interactions
• Focusing on key issues and prioritizing effectively amid distractions
• Client relations strategies including setting expectations and communicating without jargon
• Communication techniques for clear, brief, and direct messaging
• Flexibility to adapt to changing schedules and project requirements
• Personal accountability by owning mistakes and keeping promises
• Interpersonal skills to build loyalty and encourage collaboration

Share this episode with someone who wants to become a project manager or with a current project manager looking to improve their skills. Let's continue the conversation about project management by sharing resources and experiences with each other.

Support the show

Knowledge is power! Make sure to stop by the webpage to buy me a cup of coffee or support the show at https://linktr.ee/letstalkcabling . Also if you would like to be a guest on the show or have a topic for discussion send me an email at chuck@letstalkcabling.com

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TEKSGiving 2025 transforms technology infrastructure at Sojourner House, a domestic violence shelter in Rhode Island, with volunteers donating their skills to install critical safety and communication systems at four shelter buildings.

• Technology Worldwide's annual charity project allows members to nominate deserving organizations for complete technology makeovers
• Sojourner House supports women escaping abusive relationships and human trafficking situations
• Project will address outdated infrastructure in century-old buildings converted to offices and shelters
• Volunteers will install Cat6 cabling, new WiFi networks, surveillance systems, and access control
• Verkada has donated access control systems, camera licenses, and intercoms
• All skill levels welcome - from experienced engineers to beginners willing to learn
• Technical professionals gain unique experience working alongside specialists from different disciplines
• Follows "community over competition" philosophy central to Technology Worldwide
• Provides life-changing impact for both the organization and the volunteers

Visit textgiving.org to register as a volunteer or make a tax-deductible donation. The project needs both skilled professionals and financial support to create safe environments for those escaping dangerous situations.

Support the show

Knowledge is power! Make sure to stop by the webpage to buy me a cup of coffee or support the show at https://linktr.ee/letstalkcabling . Also if you would like to be a guest on the show or have a topic for discussion send me an email at chuck@letstalkcabling.com

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Support the show

Knowledge is power! Make sure to stop by the webpage to buy me a cup of coffee or support the show at https://linktr.ee/letstalkcabling . Also if you would like to be a guest on the show or have a topic for discussion send me an email at chuck@letstalkcabling.com

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We tackle the proposed 50% copper tariff and its potential impact on low voltage contractors, bringing insights from both manufacturing circles and distribution expertise.

• Copper tariffs could affect numerous products including cable, patch cords, bus bars, connectors, and grounding materials
• Current price increases stem from panic buying and supply/demand dynamics, not from tariffs that haven't yet been implemented
• Contractors should avoid stockpiling inventory that ties up cash flow and instead purchase for confirmed upcoming projects
• Project-based pricing is available from regional distributors even for relatively modest projects ($5,000-$10,000)
• Add clauses to contracts that account for copper price fluctuations to protect margins on future projects
• Avoid Copper Clad Aluminum (CCA) as it isn't code compliant, has conductivity issues, and lacks durability
• Build relationships with regional distributors who provide better service than large "ship-to-door" companies
• Distribution partners serve as logistics partners who can protect contractors and provide manufacturer connections

If you're watching this show on YouTube, would you mind hitting the subscribe button and that bell button to be notified when new content is being produced? If you're listening to us on one of the audio podcast platforms, would you mind leaving us a five-star rating?

Support the show

Knowledge is power! Make sure to stop by the webpage to buy me a cup of coffee or support the show at https://linktr.ee/letstalkcabling . Also if you would like to be a guest on the show or have a topic for discussion send me an email at chuck@letstalkcabling.com

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We tackle the most pressing questions in the ICT industry, from career progression paths to the future of low-voltage work in an increasingly wireless and AI-driven world.

• Career progression from cable puller to technician requires learning to read floor plans, developing termination skills, and building troubleshooting capabilities
• Certifications demonstrate career commitment but aren't a substitute for hands-on experience and continuous learning
• Self-directed learning through free resources like FiberU.org and Cable Installation Magazine can help professionals expand from copper to fiber optics
• Low-voltage is a "future-proof trade" that AI and wireless technology will enhance rather than replace
• Project management success depends on documentation, communication, and maintaining team morale through celebrating small wins
• Effective project managers need strong organizational skills, contract understanding, and the ability to balance schedules when other trades cause delays
• Learning contract language and budgeting processes prepares technicians for managing larger, multi-million dollar projects

Knowledge is power! Subscribe to Let's Talk Cabling and recommend the podcast to someone who can benefit from this information.

Support the show

Knowledge is power! Make sure to stop by the webpage to buy me a cup of coffee or support the show at https://linktr.ee/letstalkcabling . Also if you would like to be a guest on the show or have a topic for discussion send me an email at chuck@letstalkcabling.com

Chuck Bowser RCDD TECH
#CBRCDD #RCDD

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Video surveillance systems require careful planning to be effective, from choosing the right camera types to ensuring proper installation and customer training.

• Understanding what the customer needs to see is the first crucial step in system design
• Balance feature-rich performance with budget considerations and storage limitations
• Select appropriate cameras with proper IP ratings for your environmental conditions
• Always use a back box when mounting exterior cameras to prevent water ingress
• CAT 6 plenum cabling provides future-proofing benefits for surveillance systems
• Proper cable termination and testing is essential before camera installation
• Format NVRs correctly, as they don't automatically begin recording
• Create detailed documentation showing camera locations and identifications
• Build in 2-3 hours of customer training for every system installation
• Focus on customer service and make clients feel taken care of throughout the process

For more information or to contact Gary Runkel, visit www.alphateamtechs.com or call 980-293-5201.

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Knowledge is power! Make sure to stop by the webpage to buy me a cup of coffee or support the show at https://linktr.ee/letstalkcabling . Also if you would like to be a guest on the show or have a topic for discussion send me an email at chuck@letstalkcabling.com

Chuck Bowser RCDD TECH
#CBRCDD #RCDD

Send us a text

Support the show

Knowledge is power! Make sure to stop by the webpage to buy me a cup of coffee or support the show at https://linktr.ee/letstalkcabling . Also if you would like to be a guest on the show or have a topic for discussion send me an email at chuck@letstalkcabling.com

Chuck Bowser RCDD TECH
#CBRCDD #RCDD

Send us a text

The ICT industry has long been divided between outside plant and inside plant technologies, but fabric interduct is bridging that gap with its space-saving mesh design and cost-saving benefits. Tyler Andrews from Maxell explains how this textile-based solution can triple conduit capacity while cutting installation costs in half.

• Provides dedicated pathways for cable within conduit while using significantly less space
• Created in 1997 when an engineer and his wife sewed the first prototype to solve conduit space limitations
• Requires a swivel during installation to prevent twisting – the most crucial installation requirement
• Comes in various configurations including 2-cell and 4-cell options for maximum pathway flexibility
• Reduces total operating costs by approximately 50% compared to rigid HDPE innerduct
• Available in plenum-rated versions for inside plant applications
• Supports up to 12 separate pathways in a single 4-inch conduit
• Installation is easier and faster with lower friction coefficient than traditional innerduct
• Maxell offers Bicsi-accredited training (2 CECs) for proper design and installation techniques

Join me Wednesday nights at 6pm Eastern for live Q&A sessions on all social media platforms where you can ask your installation, certification, design, project management, and estimation questions.

Support the show

Knowledge is power! Make sure to stop by the webpage to buy me a cup of coffee or support the show at https://linktr.ee/letstalkcabling . Also if you would like to be a guest on the show or have a topic for discussion send me an email at chuck@letstalkcabling.com

Chuck Bowser RCDD TECH
#CBRCDD #RCDD