Utilities and other energy companies are facing a lack of trained workers as they begin developing the "smart grid" that's supposed to deliver electricity in more efficient ways. It's a challenge they face at all levels of their organizations, and in all departments, and is being made more pressing by an expected exodus of expertise as veteran workers retire.

Yes, most of the jobs involved include trades that are far removed from IT. But as the smart grid rolls out, technology will become increasingly important because consultants and systems integrators, software system providers, communications system services professionals and contractors will be needed to develop new systems for power pricing, usage, and storage.

Meantime, utilities are considering a range of options for leveraging technology to both train new workers and streamline the work of those already on the job:

Utility companies should examine new technologies that can ease the burden on utility workers. Most utilities now use centralized automation technology, incorporating high-speed computers, supervisory control systems, and a variety of communication systems to ensure the reliable and safe delivery of power to consumers. As the available technology in the industry evolves, utilities should broaden their use of maintenance, testing and continuous monitoring system technology to supplement the loss of retiring maintenance engineers.

-- Mark Feffer