If you’re curious how utilities can break through outdated processes and accelerate grid modernization, this episode is a must-listen. Kim Getgen, CEO of InnovationForce, joins us to share how her AI-powered platform is helping utilities overcome “pilotitis,” streamline innovation workflows, and bring game-changing technologies to life faster. From aligning with fast-moving startups to addressing cybersecurity bottlenecks and making frontline workers part of the solution, Kim offers real-world strategies for scaling innovation in complex, regulated industries. Whether you work in clean energy, electric vehicles, or digital transformation, this episode is packed with insights on how AI is reshaping the future of utility innovation—one pilot at a time.
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Takeaways
1. Innovation starts with a challenge—not a shiny object.
Kim Getgen explains why utility innovation efforts often fail when they don’t begin with a clearly defined problem, and how starting with challenge statements leads to better alignment, faster pilots, and higher success rates.
2. Time is the silent killer of innovation.
More than budgets or resources, it's indecision and delays that stall progress. Kim shares why utilities must act quickly to match the pace of startups—and how AI can help accelerate that decision-making process.
3. Culture change comes after capability building—not before.
Drawing from Harvard-backed research, Kim breaks down why utility culture improves organically when employees are empowered with the right innovation tools and clear processes—not just buzzwords or slogans.
4. Cybersecurity doesn’t have to be a bottleneck.
Kim dives into how standardized procurement workflows, better staffing, and proactive preparation from startups can reduce cyber delays—without compromising safety or compliance.
5. InnovationForce’s “airports and captains” model makes innovation accessible.
By ditching jargon and using aviation-inspired language, utilities can decentralize innovation and engage employees at all levels—especially those closest to the problem.
6. AI is changing the game for solution discovery and pilot matching.
InnovationWorks AI can read hundreds of pages of grid modernization filings in seconds, identify critical challenges, and instantly match them to vetted startup solutions—replacing months of manual research.
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Chapters
00:00 Welcome to Grid Connections: Innovating the Energy Sector
01:40 Meet Kim Getgen and InnovationForce’s Mission
04:28 The Challenge of Utility Pilots and Startup Collaboration
10:45 Cybersecurity Bottlenecks in Grid Innovation
15:47 How InnovationForce Streamlines Innovation at Scale
21:15 AI-Powered Discovery for Grid Modernization
22:31 Who Drives Innovation Within Utilities?
28:35 Empowering Field Workers to Be Chief Problem Officers
37:17 Why Time, Not Budget, Is the Real Killer of Innovation
43:14 How AI Generates Challenges and Matches Solutions in Minutes
49:22 What a Solution Match Looks Like for EV and Grid Challenges
52:16 Beyond Grid Mod: How InnovationForce Supports the Full Energy Ecosystem
54:33 The Long-Term Impact of AI on Energy Innovation Culture
57:37 Wrap-Up: How to Try InnovationWorks AI for Free
59:17 Outro