Training that actually sticks with Kyle Gawloski | Everyone Leads Series - Episode 108
In this episode of the Power Element Podcast's Everyone Leads series, Raul Guardado sits down with Kyle Gawloski, Director of Safety Training for MYR Group, for an authentic conversation about leadership, training, and what it takes to build a strong industry. The discussion starts with leadership lessons from Extreme Ownership and explores how ego can help or hinder growth, especially when it comes to learning, teaching, and accepting feedback. Kyle shares his unexpected journey from journeyman lineman to training professional and explains why effective training must go beyond PowerPoint presentations and compliance checkboxes. The team tackles a common challenge across the industry: How do you create buy-in when crews see training as just another requirement? Through stories, field experiences, and practical examples, they discuss the importance of connecting training to the real work crews perform every day, making it relevant, engaging, and applicable. Drawing inspiration from the book Chop Wood, Carry Water , the conversation shifts to the value of fundamentals, delayed gratification, and mastering the process. Whether you're an apprentice working toward your ticket, a journeyman developing your craft, or a leader responsible for developing others, this episode offers valuable insights on growth, humility, and continuous learning. Topics Covered: Why ego can be a barrier to learning and leadership Creating buy-in for training programs The difference between compliance training and meaningful development Why storytelling is one of the most effective teaching tools The importance of apprenticeship fundamentals Delayed gratification and long-term success in the trades Feedback, readbacks, and improving crew performance Building a culture where everyone leads Key Takeaway: "Training only works when it leaves the classroom and shows up on the job." Whether you're leading a crew, developing apprentices, or working to improve your craft, this episode is a reminder that real growth happens through the daily process of learning, improving, and doing the work. This episode is powered by Sturgeon Electric and MYR Group. Check out and support our promotional partners: Milwaukee Tool, Klein Tools, Wye Delta, and High Voltage Industries. Ad music provided by: Daniel Sanchez @d.s.s._beats @DSSbeats Follow us on Instagram @ CaliforniaLineWorks May we all continue to guide and support those in need. Please continue the conversation about mental health and well-being within your community. Be your Brother’s Keeper. Visit www.lineco.org for assistance through LineCo. Suicide, crisis, and lifeline Dial 988. The Power Element Podcast is a leadership, culture, and safety podcast for linemen and construction professionals, focused on standards, accountability, and high-performance culture in the utility and construction industries. #Leadership #Linework #EveryoneLeads #SafetyCulture #Apprenticeship #Training #MYRGroup #ExtremeOwnership #PowerElementPodcast #ElectricalIndustry #LinemanLife #LeadershipDevelopment #ChopWoodCarryWater #UtilityIndustry #ContinuousImprovement
