Technology and Human Connection: Joshua Dickerson on 19 Years of Innovation at Cochran

Joshua Dickerson, a Lead Wireman Detailer at Cochran, has seen the electrical and construction industries evolve significantly over his 19-year career. Starting as an apprentice with Cochran and working his way up, Joshua’s journey has been deeply intertwined with the rapid advancement of technology within the industry. He recalls the early days when tools like AutoCAD, while powerful, were not explicitly designed for electrical work, making them cumbersome to use. Yet, for him, the true secret to success goes beyond the cutting-edge tools—it’s about fostering solid human relationships and delivering on promises.

When Joshua began detailing 12 years ago, tools like AutoCAD were essential but cumbersome. “It was pretty powerful, but it wasn’t built for electrical,” he recalls. Today, however, technology has taken a massive leap forward. Revit and Evolve, which Joshua uses daily, have revolutionized how Cochran handles design and construction projects. “We can finally get practical, detailed information from our models—everything from the number of connectors to laying out conduit for prefab. It’s streamlined so much of our workflow,” he explains. These tools allow Cochran to anticipate field needs better, driving efficiency and improving project execution.

However, Joshua emphasizes that technology isn’t a silver bullet. “Even with all the tools we have, it’s the relationships that matter—working closely with your design team, architects, and general foreman, and doing what you say you’re going to do,” he says. That human connection is not just a supplement, but a critical component in ensuring that projects run smoothly, even when challenges arise.

As he looks toward the future, Joshua is excited about technologies like the Dusty Robotics system, a cutting-edge solution that enhances precision on job sites by printing design layouts directly on floors. He notes that while such innovations are still gaining traction, they represent the direction the industry is heading.

For those entering the field, Joshua has simple advice: “Technology is great, but never forget the value of human skills. Building trust and delivering results is what will set you apart in this industry.” He shares examples of how his ability to communicate effectively with his team and his commitment to meeting deadlines have been instrumental in his career success.