DEARBORN, Mich. — O’Connell Electric’s CEO, Michael Parkes, recently joined a nationally recognized panel discussion on Grid Modernization at the 2026 ELECTRI International Summer Council Meeting, where industry leaders examined the challenges and opportunities facing the nation’s electric infrastructure.
Hosted by ELECTRI International, the electrical construction industry’s leading research and education foundation, the panel brought together Parkes, Steve Hunter of Motor City Electric, and Jake Gentle, Senior Technical Manager for Grid Reliability and Adaptability at Idaho National Laboratory. Discussions focused on the future of the U.S. power grid, growing energy demand, infrastructure investment, workforce development, and the essential role electrical contractors will play in modernizing the nation’s electrical systems.
During the session, panelists explored the unprecedented pressures being placed on the grid by artificial intelligence, data centers, electrification, renewable energy integration, battery storage, EV infrastructure, and aging utility assets. The conversation highlighted how electrical contractors are uniquely positioned to help utilities, developers, and communities strengthen reliability, resiliency, and capacity across the grid.
“Grid modernization is no longer a future conversation, it’s happening now,” said Parkes. “As energy demand continues to grow and critical infrastructure becomes more dependent on reliable power, contractors must be prepared to deliver the skilled workforce, technical expertise, and execution capabilities needed to support the next generation of electrical infrastructure.”
The panel also emphasized that successful modernization efforts will require stronger collaboration among utilities, research institutions, policymakers, manufacturers, and contractors. Areas of focus included workforce training, transmission and distribution upgrades, substation construction, distributed energy resources, microgrids, energy storage systems, and emerging grid technologies.
Parkes’ participation reflects O’Connell Electric’s ongoing commitment to advancing the electrical construction industry and helping shape conversations around the future of energy infrastructure. As a long-standing supporter of ELECTRI International and a recognized leader within the industry, Parkes continues to advocate for investments and partnerships that strengthen the electric grid and support economic growth across the country.
About O’Connell Electric Company
Founded in 1911, O’Connell Electric Company has grown to become one of the largest electrical contractors in the nation. Headquartered in Victor, NY, the company operates seven office locations across New York State, including Albany, Rochester, Buffalo, and Syracuse. O’Connell Electric specializes in industrial and commercial construction, power line and substation work, vegetation management, communications, transportation, renewable energy, service and preventive maintenance. With a strong commitment to quality, safety, and innovation, O’Connell Electric continues to lead the industry by delivering exceptional electrical solutions and services to its clients.
About ELECTRI International
ELECTRI International is the nonprofit research and education foundation for the electrical construction industry. Through industry-leading research, workforce development initiatives, and educational programs, ELECTRI brings together contractors, manufacturers, labor leaders, educators, and industry experts to advance the electrical construction industry and prepare it for the future. Learn more at www.electri.org.
