Drilling Is More Art Than Science | Jake Brown, Brad Minerick & Jonathan Pipsair | 214
About this episode
The episode explores the intricacies of foundation drilling in the utility industry through the experiences of industry veterans.
What happens before a single power line ever goes up? Ryan sits down with Jake Brown, Brad Minerick, and Jonathan Pipsair to pull back the curtain on foundation drilling, one of the most important and least understood trades in the utility industry. Jake is a VP-level drilling operations leader overseeing projects across North America. Brad is a superintendent who has spent years balancing road life, family, and leadership in the field. Jonathan brings more than 40 years of experience in foundation drilling, including marine and amphibious projects throughout the Everglades and Louisiana. Together, they share what decades in the trade have taught them about road life, family sacrifice, career growth, leadership, and the hidden work that happens long before the lights turn on. The conversation explores why drilling is more art than science, what most people never see behind reliable power, the realities of spending years on the road, and why the higher you climb the ladder, the more you should understand what you're asking for. Whether you're an apprentice, journeyman, supervisor, contractor, or simply curious about the people who build the infrastructure around us, this episode…
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