Toolbox Talks

Toolbox Talks Ep 5: Why “Watch and Protect” Could Save Lives on the Job Site w/ Aaron Hoerchler

Thu, 14 May 2026 12:00:00 -0400

What exactly is the “Watch and Protect” program — and why is it becoming such an important part of safe excavation in Illinois?

In this episode of Julie’s Toolbox Talks, host Jill Sailer and co-host Brian MacKenzie sit down with Aaron Hoerchler, Operations Manager for Kinder Morgan and Treasurer on the JULIE Board, to discuss how Watch and Protect helps prevent dangerous utility damages and keeps crews, homeowners, and communities safe.

From high-pressure natural gas pipelines to communication breakdowns on job sites, this conversation dives into real-world examples of how excavation accidents happen — and how they can be prevented.

You’ll learn:

- What Watch and Protect actually means
- Why utility marks don’t tell the whole story
- The risks of digging near major pipelines
- How communication prevents costly damages
- Real stories from the field
- How new technology is changing pipeline monitoring

Whether you’re a contractor, locator, homeowner, or utility professional, this episode is packed with practical insight that could help prevent the next major incident.

Toolbox Talks Ep 4: Behind the Paint: Real Stories from a Utility Locator with Billy Blackstock

Thu, 09 Apr 2026 05:00:00 -0400

Ever wonder what happens before the digging even begins?

In this episode of Julie’s Toolbox Talks, we go behind the scenes with a real utility locator to uncover the critical role they play in keeping excavation projects safe. From early morning ticket reviews to navigating job site hazards, this conversation dives into the daily life, challenges, and evolving technology of the locating profession.

You’ll hear:

What a typical day looks like for a locator
Why pre-marking is a game changer
The biggest challenges locators face today
Real stories—including a near-miss with a high-pressure gas line
How homeowners and contractors can make locates safer and more accurate

Whether you're a contractor, homeowner, or industry professional, this episode will change how you think about what’s happening underground.

Toolbox Talks Ep 3: What Makes a Good Locate Request with Kim Kennedy

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 06:00:00 -0400

What makes a good locate request? In this episode of JULIE’s Toolbox Talks, we go behind the dig ticket to explore how better communication and preparation can help keep excavation projects safe and on schedule.

Host Jill Sailer and co-host Brian MacKenzie are joined by Kim Kennedy, Operations Coordinator for Electric Conduit Construction and Midwestern Contractors. Kim manages up to 100,000 dig tickets every year, giving her a unique perspective on what contractors, locators, and crews can do to improve the locate process.

In this conversation, Kim shares practical advice for anyone submitting a locate request—from preparing information before calling 811 to using maps, communication, and technology to make the process smoother for everyone involved.

You’ll also hear how the industry has evolved over the years, why communication between excavators and locators is critical, and how new tools like Positive Response systems are helping improve damage prevention.

If you work in excavation, utilities, or construction, this episode is packed with real-world tips to help you dig smarter and safer.

🔹 Topics Covered:

What makes a good locate request

Tips for new users submitting 811 tickets

How technology is improving damage prevention

Communication between excavators and locators

Preparing accurate descriptions and maps for tickets

Learn more about safe digging in Illinois:
👉 https://www.juliebeforeyoudig.com

Toolbox Talks Ep 2: Inside JULIE’s Remote Ticket Entry Program with Paula Browning

Wed, 04 Feb 2026 09:00:00 -0500

Remote Ticket Entry (RTE) is changing how excavators and contractors submit locate requests—and making the process safer, faster, and more accurate.

In this episode of JULIE’s Toolbox Talks, host Jill Sailer and co-host Brian MacKenzie sit down with Paula Browning, JULIE’s Member and Remote Services Manager, to break down how Remote Ticket Entry works and why it’s such a powerful tool for today’s excavation professionals.

With more than 25 years of experience at JULIE, Paula shares expert insights on:

How Remote Ticket Entry works and how easy it is to get started

Why excavators have more control and accuracy when submitting tickets

How detailed information leads to better locates and improved safety

New enhancements like map uploads, attachments, joint meets, and upcoming planning & design features

Common misconceptions about RTE and the support available to users

This episode highlights why better communication leads to better outcomes—and how Remote Ticket Entry helps protect underground infrastructure while keeping projects moving.

🔗 Learn more about Remote Ticket Entry and JULIE resources at juliebeforeyoudig.com

🛠️ Safe digging starts before the shovel hits the ground. Always contact JULIE before you dig.

#ToolboxTalks #RemoteTicketEntry #SafeDigging #ExcavationSafety #DigSafeIllinois #JULIEBeforeYouDig

Toolbox Talks Ep 1: JULIE Essentials Courses & How Education Drives Safe Digging with Amy Chmura

Thu, 08 Jan 2026 12:00:00 -0500

Welcome to the first episode of JULIE’s Toolbox Talks, your go-to resource for safe digging and protecting Illinois’ underground infrastructure.

In this episode, host Jill Sailer is joined by co-host Brian Mackenzie and special guest Amy Chmura, JULIE’s Director of Education and Strategic Projects, to explore JULIE Essentials — JULIE’s free, online education platform designed for excavators, utility professionals, locators, and homeowners.

You’ll learn:

- Why JULIE Essentials courses were created

- Who can benefit from them (from new hires to seasoned professionals)

- How flexible, on-demand learning supports busy crews

- How micro-learning and mobile access make training easier

- Common misconceptions about JULIE and how education clears them up

Whether you’re working in Illinois every day or digging here for the first time, this episode shows how education plays a critical role in damage prevention and safe excavation.

▶️ Learn more about JULIE Essentials at julieessentials.com

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