True Blue Podcast

In this episode of the True Blue Podcast, Daren sits down with Frank Lopez, to reflect on 14 years at A-C and the transition into his new role Director of Projects, Renewables. Their conversation explores what it's like to step into unfamiliar territory, the value of asking questions, and why the best leaders take the time to understand what already works before making changes. Frank also shares his perspective on the evolving world of renewables, building strong teams, and helping people see the value of the role they play in something much bigger than themselves.  

In Episode 14 of the True Blue Podcast, Daren sits down with Chief Financial Officer Lacy Ortlieb to talk about the experiences that shaped her career, what brought her to A-C Electric Company, and the leadership principles she relies on every day.
Get to know one of A-C's newest leaders and hear the perspective she's bringing to the company. Throughout the conversation, Lacy shares why it's never too late to try something new, the importance of staying curious, and how embracing change has influenced her career. She also offers practical advice on prioritizing what matters, speaking up, documenting the details, and finding creative solutions to everyday challenges.

In this episode of the True Blue Podcast, Daren sits down with Kandice Blair, Director of Procurement, to discuss her career journey, what brought her to A-C, and the role procurement plays in supporting projects across the company.
The conversation explores the growth of procurement and systems at A-C, the implementation of Kojo, and the work happening behind the scenes to help teams operate efficiently and keep projects moving forward. Along the way, Kandice shares insight into a side of the business many employees may not see every day and the impact her team has across the organization.

In this episode of the True Blue Podcast, Daren sits down with Danielle Ortiz from A-C Electric Company’s Talent team to talk about this year’s internship program and the continued growth behind it.
The conversation covers mentorship, workforce development, company culture, and the importance of investing in young professionals entering the industry. Danielle also shares insight into the planning and collaboration that help create meaningful opportunities for interns across the company.
This episode offers a look into the purpose behind the program and A-C’s continued investment in the next generation of the electrical industry.

In this episode of the True Blue Podcast, Daren sits down with Mark Lyons, A-C’s Regional Superintendent, to talk about his journey through the electrical trade and the many years he’s spent helping lead teams at A-C.
Mark reflects on the projects, challenges, and experiences that stand out most throughout his career, along with the lessons he’s learned working alongside generations of people at A-C. The conversation also explores how the company has evolved over the years and what it takes to continue building strong leaders in the field. With decades of experience and no shortage of stories, Mark offers a perspective shaped by years of growth, leadership, and commitment to the company.

In this episode of the True Blue Podcast, Daren recaps a busy April and prepares the team for what May has in store at A-C.

In this episode of the True Blue Podcast, Daren sits down with Cody Brooks, Executive Director of the Kern County National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA). Cody shares insight into the role NECA plays in supporting electrical contractors and advocating for the industry at a broader level. From building strong relationships to providing industry research and training programs, he offers a behind-the-scenes look at how NECA helps shape the future of electrical construction - and how our involvement with them benefits all of us at A-C. 
This conversation highlights the importance of staying connected, getting involved, and understanding the bigger picture of the industry we’re all a part of. 

In this episode of the True Blue Podcast, Daren sits down with Dave Brown, a consultant who works closely with A-C’s leadership and teams, to talk about his journey in the electrical industry. With a career that began in 1987, Dave shares the experience and perspective he’s built over decades in the trade, along with the mindset that continues to challenge and push A-C to grow. He reflects on A-C’s growth over the years and the stages the company has moved through, offering insight into the way we think and operate today.

In this episode of the True Blue Podcast, Daren kicks off April and the start of a new year at A-C. He reflects on the flywheel effect - how consistent effort over time builds momentum - and what that means for the year ahead.

In this episode of the True Blue Podcast, Daren shares his monthly update and speaks to the purpose behind the events and activities that connect us as a company.