In this DCD Talks video interview, Peter Curtis joins DCD CEO George Rockett to discuss how artificial intelligence, quantum computing, and operational intelligence are reshaping the future of mission-critical infrastructure. Their conversation explores the industry’s workforce challenges, the importance of preserving institutional knowledge, and how emerging technologies will help prepare the next generation of engineers for increasingly complex operational environments.
Rather than viewing technology as a replacement for experienced professionals, the discussion focuses on how AI can strengthen human expertise, accelerate learning, and improve operational decision-making across the mission-critical industry.
Turning Innovation Into Operational Intelligence
One of the key messages throughout the interview is that AI presents an opportunity to strengthen the industry at exactly the right time. As Peter explains, while the mission-critical industry continues to grow rapidly, it is also facing the loss of experienced professionals through retirement. Rather than seeing AI as a disruptive force, he describes it as a practical tool for knowledge transfer, helping organizations preserve expertise while accelerating the development of future engineers.
The discussion also highlights how operational and visualization technologies can work alongside AI to improve decision-making, support clients, and help the industry move forward with greater confidence. Instead of focusing on the fear often associated with AI, the conversation emphasizes how these technologies can be used to do better, enhancing people, operations, and long-term resilience.
Looking Ahead
Although quantum computing is still emerging, Peter and George discuss its potential alongside AI as part of the next evolution of mission-critical operations. Their conversation focuses less on replacing people and more on equipping engineers with better intelligence, better tools, and better access to decades of operational knowledge.
As organizations navigate increasingly complex infrastructure challenges, the future will belong to those that successfully combine human expertise with intelligent technologies to preserve knowledge, improve operations, and prepare the next generation of industry leaders.
"While the industry is doubling in size, you’re losing half the industry. We have a tool that is right in our hands now that can help with that knowledge transfer."
Peter Curtis, PMC
