Maximizing Transmission Capacity & Reducing Project Timelines

With over 35 years of experience in powerline design, construction, and project management, Fred Fitton has been instrumental in advancing transmission and distribution infrastructure. He began his career at Nashville Electric Service (NES), where he held key engineering and leadership roles, overseeing major transmission, distribution, and lighting projects. His expertise spans regulatory compliance, RFQ development, and engineering standards, which have helped streamline project execution and improve grid reliability. At NES, he played a vital role in maintaining overhead and underground distribution standards while managing multimillion-dollar budgets. Now serving as Transmission Application Engineer at Marmon Utility, Fred helps utilities implement innovative transmission solutions that optimize existing infrastructure and accelerate project timelines. He has developed engineering training programs, mentored teams, and guided utilities in adopting best practices for construction and system reliability. With a deep understanding of aerial cable systems and transmission applications, he continues to support utilities in building a more resilient and efficient grid.

With over 45 years of experience in electric power engineering, consulting, and management, Brian Trager has played a key role in advancing global power distribution. He earned his B.S. and M.Eng. in Electric Power Engineering from RPI and later completed an MBA at the University of Pittsburgh, blending technical expertise with business leadership. Throughout his career, he has held engineering and leadership positions at American Electric Power, Cooper Power Systems, and Fisher-Pierce, spending 30 years as Director, Technology & International at Hendrix Wire and Cable. Brian’s expertise in power line specification, design, construction, and management has shaped critical infrastructure projects worldwide. He has worked on international electrification initiatives funded by organizations such as USAID, ADB, and JBIC, bringing high-reliability power distribution solutions to seven continents. A recognized industry thought leader, Brian has authored over 75 technical papers and articles for IEEE and other global organizations. He has also shared his knowledge through teaching roles at Ohio State University, West Virginia University, and Penn State, as well as specialized training for utility clients. For over 30 years, his work has focused on Aerial Covered Conductor Systems, and he continues to serve the industry in a consulting capacity, guiding utilities toward more reliable and efficient transmission solutions.