Energy Expert Insights: Why Power Is Now the First Question in Industrial Deals
Katy Preidt: Navigating Economic Development and Power Grid Challenges at Duke Energy In this episode of the Industrial Advisors podcast, hosts Matt McGregor and Bill Condon interview Katy Preidt, Economic Development Manager at Duke Energy Corporation, live from IAMC in Indianapolis. Katy shares her unique journey from aspiring science teacher to her current role, detailing her educational background in geology and GIS from Ball State, her work in California at Apple, and her return to Indiana. She discusses the dynamics of economic development, the competitive advantages of Indiana, and Duke Energy's initiatives, such as the Site Readiness Program, which prepares communities for industrial development. Katie also addresses the challenges of power grid demands, particularly in context to the fast-paced industrial sector, and the innovative solutions that Duke Energy engineers are implementing to stay competitive. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Background 00:49 Educational Journey and Early Career 01:59 Transition to Duke Energy 02:20 Economic Development Role 02:49 Life in Indiana vs. California 03:00 Power Grid and Industrial Development 04:39 Duke's Site Readiness Program 07:26 Challenges and Future of Power Infrastructure 10:44 Conclusion and Final Thoughts