Local people: Kyle, Operations Lead, Operations West
May 27, 2026, 14:58 PMAt FortisAlberta, we do more than just deliver your power. We’re your neighbours, friends and community members. Serving more than 240 Alberta communities, we value connecting with customers. And in doing so, here’s a chance for you to get to know one of our people. Allow us to introduce Kyle, Operations Lead out of our Rimbey/Lacombe service points.
Born and raised in Lacombe, Kyle has been with FortisAlberta since 2007 when he started as a RAP (Registered Apprentice Program) student before joining us full-time as an apprentice in 2008. He has since become an integral part of the work we do in west, central Alberta.
Can you tell me how the work you do makes a positive impact on FortisAlberta customers?
A big part of my job is making sure our electricity distribution system is safe and reliable for our customers. Safety is a guiding value at FortisAlberta and plays a huge part in all of our planning and work. Through ongoing maintenance programs, system upgrades and regular assessments that improve our system, we deliver electricity to our customers when and where they need it, as safely and efficiently as possible.
What’s something surprising or unique about your job that others might find interesting?
I'd say a big one is how complex the electricity distribution grid really is. I don't think it's surprising to people who may hear that there's a lot that goes on behind the scenes in this industry. But the scale of the technology, planning and expertise of those working to make it all run smoothly, I think, may be tough to really understand for those who aren't as familiar with the industry.
Do you have a highlight or key memory from your time at FortisAlberta?
For me, some of the biggest highlights are the large-scale restoration efforts after major weather events, fires or floods. It can be very challenging but coming together with crews from across the province to repair damage and restore our customer's electricity is always a standout experience.
How have you seen our service improve over your time with the company?
I’ve definitely seen improvements over my career. FortisAlberta has always focused on customer service and we’re always looking for ways to improve. Over the past 15 years, we’ve seen large-scale grid modernization that has made our system safer and more reliable.
How have these improvements benefited customers?
These changes have helped lead to fewer outages, shorter outages and safer power lines running throughout Alberta.
How does your work support wildfire prevention and overall system safety?
Through regular patrols, maintenance and modernization, we’re always identifying parts of the system that could pose a risk. We repair or upgrade anything that could impact public safety or potentially act as an ignition source for wildfires. Our wildfire team works every day to advance our wildfire mitigation efforts, in addition to ongoing exploration of new preventative technologies like non-expulsion or expulsion limiting fuses, spaced aerial cable systems, weather station installations, fire resistant mesh installed on our poles and all sorts of other things our wildfire mitigation experts focus on every day.
How do you and your team maintain strong safety standards day to day?
We’ve built a safety culture where we openly talk about both successes and near misses. We break situations down to learn from them. The focus isn’t on blame, but on improving. We take that same approach when working with others near our lines, encouraging open conversations about power line safety. These conversations also take place with the public during trade shows, school presentations, safety conferences. Anywhere we have the chance to get safety messaging out there, we go for it.
How do you prepare for each workday?
We start each day by coming together as a team to review the work ahead. Where is everyone going? What will they’ll be doing? What challenges might the team face? Staying connected helps us feel ready to take on whatever the day brings.
What’s your favourite part of the job?
Getting the call for a major storm restoration is always a thrilling experience. When we’re called out to support people who are without power, there’s a real sense of purpose and drive to help when it matters most.
What’s the most challenging part of the job?
To no one's surprise, I'd have to say Alberta winters. As Albertans, we're all familiar with the conditions here in the colder months. But I'll say that working at the top of a pole in tough conditions, especially with heavy gloves in the cold, is something power line technicians don’t look forward to.
What do you enjoy doing outside of work?
I enjoy spending time outdoors with family. We’re looking forward to a summer filled with camping, fishing, gardening and exploring parks around Lacombe. My family and I have our favourite spots but we're always looking to add to that list when summer rolls around.
Anything else you’d like customers to know?
We enjoy connecting with our customers. Please stay safe around power lines this summer, and don’t hesitate to reach out to FortisAlberta if you have any safety concerns or questions.
