Episodes

Episode 45 | Beyond the Land Profession: Transferable Skills and Career Growth with Ron Vermeulen

In this episode of Elevated Access, host Chad Hughes sits down with Ron Vermeulen, founder of Land Solutions, to explore how a career in the right of way and land profession can shape skills that extend far beyond the industry. Ron shares his journey from early days in surveying to enrolling in the land agent program at Olds College, and eventually building a career across major organizations, including Amoco and Gulf Canada. His story highlights how adaptability and a willingness to step outside comfort zones can open doors and accelerate professional growth in land acquisition and right of way careers.

Episode 44 | Inside the IRWA International Education Conference with Mindy Leadholm and Jake Farrell

In this special mini episode of Elevated Access, host Chad Hughes welcomes Blandon Granger, Chair of the International Electric and Utility Committee, along with Gina Cannova and Taylor Doyle, to spotlight the upcoming IEUC Symposium taking place April 9, 2026, in New Orleans. The conversation centers on the mission of the International Electric and Utility Committee within the International Right of Way Association and its role in advancing technical knowledge, education, and networking opportunities for professionals in electric, telecommunications, water, sewer, and natural gas sectors.

Episode 43 | IEUC Symposium Spotlight with Taylor Doyle, Gina Cannova, and Blandon Granger

In this special mini episode of Elevated Access, host Chad Hughes welcomes Blandon Granger, Chair of the International Electric and Utility Committee, along with Gina Cannova and Taylor Doyle, to spotlight the upcoming IEUC Symposium taking place April 9, 2026, in New Orleans. The conversation centers on the mission of the International Electric and Utility Committee within the International Right of Way Association and its role in advancing technical knowledge, education, and networking opportunities for professionals in electric, telecommunications, water, sewer, and natural gas sectors.

Episode 42 | The Abundance of Opportunity: Charting a Dynamic Right of Way Career with Brett Farner

In this episode of Elevated Access, host Chad Hughes sits down with industry leader Brett Farner to explore the amazing and varied opportunities in the right of way and utility real estate profession. With a 17-year career spanning Ameren, Invenergy, and now a new leadership role at Toth & Associates, Brett shares a deeply insightful journey through utility infrastructure, electric transmission development, land acquisition, technology modernization, competitive transmission, and right of way leadership. Brett’s experiences offer a rare inside look at the soft skills, strategic thinking, and mindset needed to succeed in the profession.

Episode 41 | Inside the IRWA: Leadership, Mentorship, and the Future with Koby Godwin

In this episode of Elevated Access, Chad Hughes is joined by IRWA President Koby Godwin for a deep dive into his journey through the International Right of Way Association and the path that led him to his top leadership role. Koby’s career began in urban and regional planning with the Alberta government, then evolved into a passion for the right-of-way industry, association involvement, and professional development. Chad and Koby discuss his early exposure to IRWA meetings, the value of education, mentorship, and building long-term relationships across the profession.

Episode 40 | Engaging Landowners Through Consistency with Tara Green

In this episode, Chad Hughes is joined by Tara Green, a Real Estate Specialist with Ameren Corporation, to discuss the innovative approaches she introduced to Ameren for engaging with landowners. Tara’s experience has taught her strategies, effective communication, and the importance of consistency in messaging and teammates. She shares sound advice and is very encouraging to those who may have an interest in joining the industry.

This is a discussion about access, the untold stories of challenges, successes and lessons learned.