Alan Ross

My name is Alan Ross, I am the managing editor of Transformer Technology and Power Systems Technology. Today, I am joined by Jason O’Neil, the recently announced CEO of JFE Shoji Power Canada. Jason, to start us off, could you tell us a bit about your professional background and the path that led you to this leadership role?

Jason O’Neil

I have been in the manufacturing sector for nearly 30 years. My career began in the automotive industry with DaimlerChrysler, where I was responsible for power training, chassis, and fasteners for all of North America. It was a “sink or swim” environment that provided a steep learning curve and a solid foundation in global launch teams and manufacturing breadth.

After a decade at Magna, one of the largest tier-one automotive suppliers, I was looking for a new challenge outside the cyclical nature of that industry. That search led me to JFE Shoji Power Canada—then Cogent Power—in 2017. I joined as General Manager and VP and have grown with the business ever since. It has been the most rewarding chapter of my career because the pace and demand of the power sector perfectly match my professional DNA.

Alan Ross

You view challenges as “opportunities,” a trait common among engineers. The power industry is currently undergoing its most dramatic transformation in 50 years. From your perspective, what is currently happening with your customers and the broader industry?

Jason O’Neil

The growth we are seeing is exponential, but it has moved from being predictable to unpredictable. We are in a pivotal two-year window that will define the next decade of our organization. With the 2029 Department of Energy (DOE) standards approaching, we must execute our vision now to be ready for the demands of 2030 and beyond. This isn’t a sprint; it’s a marathon that requires a sprint to the finish line. You are either going to be ahead of this growth arc or you are going to get left behind.

We are looking at AI to handle preliminary “gut checks” for engineers, accountants, and IT. By automating those day-to-day monotonous tasks, we allow our subject matter experts to focus on the things that actually drive returns and innovation.

Alan Ross

What makes JFE Shoji Power Canada unique as a supplier in this rapidly evolving market?

Jason O’Neil

Our history and our scale are significant factors; we have been in Burlington, Canada, for over 50 years and are backed by JFE Holdings, a global Fortune 500 company. We are the largest transformer core manufacturer in North America, and our value proposition is being strictly client-centric. Unlike many competitors, we have transformer engineers on staff. Additionally, our supply chain is incredibly resilient. We didn’t miss a beat during the COVID-19 pandemic because of a robust strategy that ensured material availability when others were halted.

Alan Ross

As you take the helm, what are your primary operational priorities for the next two years?

Jason O’Neil

Investment in systems, people, and automation is critical. We are implementing world-class ERP systems to move from a “one-foot lens” to a “ten-foot lens,” providing the data necessary to pivot when lead times stretch from weeks into years. We are also bringing one-of-a-kind automated cutting and slitting lines online. The goal of automation isn’t to replace team members, but to free them from monotonous tasks so they can focus on high-value-add activities.

Alan Ross

You mentioned that you want to capitalize on the power of AI. How do you see AI integrating into the manufacturing of transformer cores?

Jason O’Neil

It’s built on integrity and trust. I don’t hold anyone accountable to something I wouldn’t hold myself accountable to. I am the first to admit I am not the smartest person in the room; my job is to surround myself with the best subject matter experts and rely on their advice. I also believe in “failing forward”. Mistakes are stepping stones to resilience. I share my own vulnerabilities and past failures with my team to show them that it is okay to fail, as long as you do it quickly and learn from it.

Investment in systems, people, and automation is critical.

Alan Ross

Finally, what keeps you motivated outside of the office?

Jason O’Neil

My loved ones support me and give me motivation. I especially want to thank my two daughters, who have made many sacrifices throughout my career. One is in law school in England, and the other is graduating high school this year and heading to college in the fall. I am truly grateful to witness these important moments in their lives. I also want to thank everyone I have worked with and those I’ve had the privilege to lead, especially those who have challenged me to think differently. These relationships and experiences have shaped my journey both professionally and personally. Being in such a positive environment provides more motivation than I can express.

Alan Ross

Jason, it’s been a pleasure. Good luck with the new role, and we look forward to seeing the continued growth of JFE Shoji Power Canada.

Jason O’Neil

Thank you, I appreciate the time.