William Craft, Vice President of Enterprise Architecture at UDC, was interviewed at DistribuTECH 2025 about his team’s approach to modern utilities. Craft emphasized the importance of creating an enterprise architecture strategy that unites IT and OT for the future.
In recent years, there has been a lot of buzz around AI and cloud technology, but Craft believes that enterprise architecture is the key to making these technologies meaningful and scalable. Craft highlighted how UDC’s services help utilities design and optimize GIS systems, starting with discovery workshops to identify gaps and priorities.
Craft stressed the significance of collecting and preserving data for the future, especially with AI and automation on the rise in the energy sector. UDC focuses on integrating data streams across utilities to prepare them for a data-driven world.
One major challenge utilities face is aligning IT and OT, and Craft’s team facilitates discussions and collaboration between the two groups. By asking the right questions and fostering collaboration, UDC ensures that system architectures are both technically sound and operationally viable.
Looking ahead, Craft sees cloud technology and AI as crucial components of the utility grid’s future. He believes that AI technologies will enhance system observability and telemetry in the next five years, allowing for better predictions and proactive management.
Craft also emphasized the importance of having a well-architected system in the face of advancing technology demands. He sees Enterprise Architecture as the glue that connects digital transformation, cybersecurity, and grid modernization initiatives, drawing from frameworks like AWS, Microsoft, and Google.
As the week progresses, Energy Central is publishing more interviews from DistribuTECH 2025, including insights from industry leaders like Jeff Casey of Burns & McDonnell and MR Reinhausen. Check out the landing page for more updates.
