In this episode of the T&D World Live podcast, we sit down with Darren Tillman, Supervisor of AMI Field Operations at Baltimore Gas and Electric, to explore how field-level innovation, data-driven decision-making, and a people-first leadership approach are shaping the future of utility operations.
Tillman shares his journey from meter reader at ComEd to leading a newly established AMI technician team at BGE, detailing how his cross-functional experience across electric and gas operations has shaped his leadership style. He discusses how BGE is adapting its AMI systems to support growing solar adoption and net metering, and how AMI data is becoming essential for managing two-way power flows, optimizing voltage, and improving customer engagement.
The conversation also delves into the role of emerging technologies — like drones, virtual reality, and mobile dispatch tools — in enhancing safety and reliability in the field. Tillman emphasizes the importance of balancing innovation with foundational utility values and explains how BGE fosters a culture of continuous improvement and feedback among field crews.
Workforce development is a major theme throughout the episode. Tillman outlines Exelon’s strategic efforts to upskill current employees through coaching, career pathing, and customer experience training, while also investing in the next generation through internships, technical education partnerships, and community outreach programs.
The episode wraps with a preview of the upcoming T&D World Live event, where Tillman will be moderating a session on private LTE and looking forward to key discussions on workforce development, affordability, and undergrounding.
