Facilitator: Jerry Peerbolte
Professor Emeritus, University of Arkansas-Fort Smith

Following a qualitative research report, hear from a wide demographic of EASA service centers about the future of the industry. Electromechanical repair, service and sales remain core but not always the biggest parts of a member’s business. And with so much happening with emerging technologies, electrification, electric vehicle infrastructure, sustainability and more – how do EASA members fit in now and in the future? Hear what roundtable members have to say!

Major Topics Covered

• Workforce Challenges
  •   ging workforce and declining interest in trades
  •   Difficulty hiring and retaining skilled workers
  •   Importance of cultural fit and career path development
• Electrification and Energy Demand
  •   Growing demand for electricity and infrastructure
  •   Opportunities in servicing new electrical assets
• Digital Transformation
  •   Slow adoption of remote condition monitoring
  •   AI and machine learning applications in operations and diagnostics
  •   ROI concerns and customer fatigue with tech solutions
• Customer Relationships
  •   Importance of becoming a "trusted advisor"
  •   Field service as a key revenue and loyalty driver
  •   Value of exceptional service and employee relationships
• Sustainability
  •   Disconnect between corporate sustainability goals and plant-level action
  •   Missed opportunities to market repair as a sustainable practice
  •   Potential for carbon credit generation through motor repair
• Industry Consolidation
  •   Rise of private equity and acquisitions
  •   Perspectives from independent, family-owned, and acquired businesses
  •   Viability of small EASA members and strategies for growth

Key Takeaways

• Recruitment is a critical issue: The industry is facing a talent shortage due to retirements and lack of interest in trades. Apprenticeships and high school outreach are essential.
• AI is gaining traction: From administrative tasks to predictive maintenance, AI is being explored for efficiency and knowledge retention.
• Digital tools need better integration: Customers are interested in remote monitoring but need help interpreting data and seeing ROI.
• Field service is growing: It represents a significant and expanding portion of revenue, with techs often serving as the best salespeople.
• Sustainability is under-leveraged: Despite strong environmental benefits, the industry isn’t effectively communicating its sustainability value.
• Consolidation is reshaping the landscape: While private equity brings capital and growth, cultural fit and long-term vision remain crucial for success.
• Small businesses remain viable: With the right investments in people, technology, and customer relationships, smaller EASA members can thrive.