Adis Talović is the Lead Power Systems Engineer at RESA Power in Charlotte, North Carolina.
His responsibilities include supporting the branch team with engineering studies, project management, field support, troubleshooting, and ensuring compliance and safety. A NETA Level 4 Certified Technician, Talović has participated in NETA meetings and conferences since 2015 and serves on the Membership Application Review Committee and the Training Committee. He earned a BS in electrical engineering technology from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte.
NW: What attracted you to electrical testing?
Talović:From a young age, I was always drawn to the logic and precision of math and physics. Growing up in Bosnia and Herzegovina, these subjects were my favorites because they challenged me in the best ways. I was curious not just about how things worked but also about the science and technology that powered the world around us. This natural curiosity led me to pursue electrical technology in high school, and I earned my BSEET from UNC Charlotte after moving to the U.S.
My first step into the practical world of electrical testing came after college when I worked in a testing lab for one of the leading OEM electrical companies. When I joined a NETA company, I realized how diverse and expansive the testing industry was. I worked on equipment ranging from machines built in the 1940s to cutting-edge systems. What fascinated me the most was not only the equipment but the endless potential for growth and learning in this field. The fact that technology continues to evolve means there will always be something new to discover.
Beyond the technical side, I was drawn in by the community of NETA technicians. They were knowledgeable, supportive, and always willing to lend a hand. The culture of mentorship and the emphasis on safety and learning stood out to me. It became clear that this was an industry not just about testing equipment but about people helping people, within the company as well as for customers.
NW: How long have you been in the field, and what was your path to your current position?
Talović:I’ve been working in the NETA industry for over 15 years, and my career path has been an evolving journey of learning, growth, and adaptation. Early on, I spent the majority of my time in the field, getting hands-on experience with equipment and solving real-world problems. Even though I started as an electrical engineer for a small, family-owned NETA company, I quickly realized that the best way to grow in this industry was to immerse myself in fieldwork.
The first five years were crucial. I was constantly testing equipment, responding to trouble calls, and working closely with senior technicians who generously shared their expertise with me. These experiences were invaluable, as they expanded my technical knowledge and built my confidence in troubleshooting and problem-solving. This period of intense learning and practical application enabled me to pass my Level 4 NETA Technician exam, which was a major milestone in my career.
Eventually, I shifted to roles that involved management and operations. I started working closely with sales teams to provide technical insights, and this collaboration led me to a leadership position where I managed operations and sales. I’m currently the Lead Power Systems Engineer for RESA Power at our newly opened branch in Charlotte, North Carolina. This role allows me to leverage my years of experience in the field while focusing on growing the branch and ensuring we deliver top-notch service to our customers.
NW: Who influenced or mentored you along the way?
Talović:I’ve been fortunate to have many great mentors throughout my career. One moment that stands out is when I asked one of my college professors a question, and instead of giving me a direct answer, he said, “I’m not going to just tell you that — it took me 10 years to figure it out.” That response sparked something in me. It taught me the value of persistence and problem-solving and the importance of finding answers on my own. It was a lesson that would serve me well in the years to come.
I’ve had the privilege of learning from many experienced individuals. Ralph Patterson, the owner of my first NETA company, gave me my initial break into the world of NETA. He introduced me to the NETA community and encouraged me to pursue certifications, which laid the foundation for my career growth. Another key mentor was Warren “Wingnut” Willson, a remarkable technician and a true advocate of safety. Warren was a walking encyclopedia of electrical knowledge, always willing to share his expertise with anyone willing to listen. His passion for safety, in particular, had a lasting impact on me.
Mike Brown and Darrell Wyatt were influential in shaping my leadership and management skills. They taught me the importance of appreciating employees and customers. From them, I learned that strong leadership is not just about making decisions, but also about fostering a positive environment where both teams and clients feel valued.
Every mentor and every experience has taught me something unique, and I’ve tried to carry those lessons forward in my own career.
NW: What about this work keeps you committed to the profession?
Talović:The never-ending advancements in the electrical testing industry keep me motivated and committed to this profession. There’s always something new on the horizon, whether it’s the development of smarter, more efficient power distribution systems or the latest in electrical testing technology. It’s exciting to work in an industry that’s constantly evolving, where learning never stops.
Beyond the technology, what truly drives me is the opportunity to make a positive impact on the employees I work with and the customers we serve. I take great pride in helping others grow in their careers, whether it’s mentoring technicians or guiding customers through complex issues. I believe that fostering growth in others is one of the most rewarding aspects of this profession.
NW: Describe one of your best workdays…what happened?
Talović:There have been many rewarding workdays, from solving complex issues for clients to restoring power for critical facilities like hospitals. But one workday that stands out was when I helped four technicians pass their NETA Level 2 exams. After passing my Level 4 certification, my manager asked me to organize a study session for these technicians who had several years of field experience but needed help with the theory and math components of the exam.
We spent an entire day reviewing electrical theory, solving equations, and tackling math problems. It was a collaborative and challenging experience, but all four technicians passed their exams. Watching them succeed and knowing I had contributed to their growth was incredibly fulfilling. It was a reminder of how much we can achieve when we work together and support each other.
NW: Please share the story of a day that didn’t go as planned. How did you respond and what did you learn?
Talović:One of the most difficult days in my career was when a close colleague was injured in an arc flash incident. I remember receiving the call and immediately driving two hours to the hospital. Throughout the drive, I kept thinking about all the arc flash safety videos I had watched in training, wondering about his condition and hoping for the best. When I arrived at the hospital and saw him smiling, it was a huge relief.
Thankfully, he recovered and was able to return to work, but that day had a lasting impact on me. It reinforced the importance of safety in our industry. Arc flash incidents can have devastating consequences for the individual as well as for their family, coworkers, and the company as a whole. It’s a reminder that safety must always come first on every job, no matter how routine or urgent the task may seem.
Since then, I’ve become an even stronger advocate for safety, continuously emphasizing its importance in every aspect of our work.
NW: Which energy trend do you think will most affect your work in the future?
Talović:One of the most exciting trends I believe will significantly impact the industry is artificial intelligence (AI). I saw a recent headline that read, “The AI is the electricity of the 21st century,” which suggests the impact AI will have on our jobs, lives, and society.
I recently attended a data center conference where the focus was on how AI is shaping the future of their industry. For our industry, AI will allow us to perform more accurate data analysis, streamline troubleshooting, and optimize maintenance procedures. I see this as a positive change that will make our work more efficient and precise.
Another major trend is the rise of battery energy storage. The demand for backup power solutions is growing, and manufacturers are already adjusting their strategies to incorporate more advanced battery systems. This will have a major impact on the industry over the next five to 10 years, creating new opportunities for growth and innovation.
While these changes will require us to adapt, I believe they represent exciting advancements that will only enhance the work we do.
NW: If you were talking to a young person interested in knowing more about being an electrical testing technician, how would you describe the job and what advice would you give them?
Talović:My advice to anyone considering a career as an electrical testing technician would be to seek out as much field experience as possible. The real knowledge comes from being in the field — answering trouble calls, working with unfamiliar equipment, and using testing tools firsthand. Don’t shy away from hands-on opportunities, because that’s where you’ll learn the most.
At the same time, invest in your education early on. Read technical articles, attend seminars, and go to conferences like PowerTest. The technical knowledge you gain from studying will complement your field experience and help you understand the bigger picture.
By combining field experience and technical expertise, you’ll set yourself up for a successful and rewarding career.
NW: Is there a question you wish we had asked?
Talović:It’s clear that our industry is facing a shortage of new talent, even as demand for skilled professionals continues to grow. With the industry rapidly evolving, we need to focus on attracting the next generation of technicians. As an association and as individual members, we must work together to showcase the opportunities in electrical testing. Whether through partnerships with educational institutions, mentorship programs, or showcasing the cutting-edge technology we work with, we need to make a concerted effort to appeal to the interests and ambitions of today’s youth.
At the same time, it’s crucial to invest in the development of new NETA technicians through robust training, hands-on experience, and a supportive learning environment. By collaborating and sharing best practices, we can ensure our industry continues to thrive and meets future demands.