“Spring Training helped me uncover features I didn’t know existed
and completely changed how I use Partner Software.”
— Austin Swain, Right-of-Way CoordinatorHow Spring Training Helped Austin Swain Get More Out of Partner Software
When Austin Swain joined RushShelby Energy as a Right-of-Way Coordinator, he had only a short time to get up to speed. With limited historical processes to reference and little familiarity with Partner Software, learning the platform quickly became a priority. After attending Partner Software’s Spring Training, Austin discovered features he didn’t know existed, streamlined his workflow, and gained a whole new perspective on what Partner Software could do. We sat down with him to hear about his experience and why he recommends Spring Training to other users.
Tell us a little about your role at RushShelby Energy.
I’ve been with RushShelby Energy for about five months and was hired directly into the Right-of-Way Coordinator role.
What were some of the biggest challenges you faced before attending Spring Training?
My biggest challenge was learning the software while stepping into a brand-new role. I started on my predecessor’s final day, so the transition was immediate, and most of my initial training came from external resources. The previous Right-of-Way Coordinators weren’t using Partner as a true workflow management tool, so there wasn’t much historical data or an established process I could reference while learning how to coordinate our vegetation management program.
Was there anything you learned that immediately made your job easier?
Absolutely. Before attending Spring Training, I knew very little about what Partner Software was capable of. I learned how to use mass selection, copy data, annotate maps, create and manage jobs, and build a much more efficient workflow.
“Before the training, I honestly thought Partner was primarily a GIS
mapping system. Spring Training completely changed my perspective
on what the software could do.”
— Austin SwainHow valuable was the hands-on training compared to learning on your own?
The hands-on training exposed me to capabilities I likely never would have discovered on my own. Beyond improving how I manage our vegetation program, I was also able to identify workflow improvements that could benefit coworkers in other departments across the cooperative.
Have you noticed any improvements since attending?
Definitely. The training has significantly reduced the amount of time I spend on administrative tasks. Before attending, I was manually entering large amounts of data and tracking work through external spreadsheets.
“By implementing what I learned during Spring Training, I’ve
been able to streamline those processes and work much more efficiently.”
— Austin SwainWhat stood out most about the overall experience?
The training itself was extremely helpful, but one of the biggest benefits was connecting with other utility professionals. I was able to network with employees from other cooperatives, exchange ideas, and build relationships with Partner Software’s support team. Those connections have already helped us improve and modernize how we use Partner Software at RushShelby Energy.
What would you tell someone who’s considering attending Spring Training?
It’s absolutely worth attending.
“Even if you already consider yourself proficient with Partner Software, the platform
is constantly evolving with new features and improvements. If you skip the training,
you’re likely missing opportunities to make your work more efficient.”
— Austin SwainWhat’s the biggest benefit of attending in person?
For me, the biggest benefit was seeing the full scope of what Partner Software is capable of. Without seeing the experts demonstrate the platform in person, I never would have realized how comprehensive it really is. Another major benefit was meeting other Right-of-Way Coordinators and seeing how they organize and manage their own programs.
Spring Training continues to help Partner Software users discover new features, share ideas with peers, and find more
efficient ways to work. Austin’s experience is one example of how a few days of hands-on learning can have
a lasting impact back at the office.
Austin Swain
Right-of-Way Coordinator
RushShelby Energy
https://www.rse.coop/