Katy Preidt: Navigating Economic Development and Power Grid Challenges at Duke Energy

In this episode of the Industrial Advisors podcast, hosts Matt McGregor and Bill Condon interview Katy Preidt, Economic Development Manager at Duke Energy Corporation, live from IAMC in Indianapolis. Katy shares her unique journey from aspiring science teacher to her current role, detailing her educational background in geology and GIS from Ball State, her work in California at Apple, and her return to Indiana. She discusses the dynamics of economic development, the competitive advantages of Indiana, and Duke Energy's initiatives, such as the Site Readiness Program, which prepares communities for industrial development. Katie also addresses the challenges of power grid demands, particularly in context to the fast-paced industrial sector, and the innovative solutions that Duke Energy engineers are implementing to stay competitive.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Background

00:49 Educational Journey and Early Career

01:59 Transition to Duke Energy

02:20 Economic Development Role

02:49 Life in Indiana vs. California

03:00 Power Grid and Industrial Development

04:39 Duke's Site Readiness Program

07:26 Challenges and Future of Power Infrastructure

10:44 Conclusion and Final Thoughts