Powering Precision: VDC Solutions Support Retrofit and Expansion in Oklahoma

Interior of a high‑bay warehouse under construction with tall pallet racks, bright overhead lights, and red scissor lifts on the concrete floor.

September 2, 2025

When Brenham, TX-based Blue Bell Creameries expanded its operations in Broken Arrow, OK, Interstates stepped in to support the project's electrical construction and virtual design & construction (VDC) needs, delivering a solution-oriented approach across both new construction and renovation scopes. 

The centerpiece of the expansion was a retrofit with a new, fully automated freezer area known as the ASRS (Automated Storage and Retrieval System). While Interstates was not responsible for the ASRS installation, our team provided the electrical infrastructure that powered the space. This included medium- and low-voltage distribution, fire alarm systems, lighting, and lighting protection across the existing and newly constructed areas. 

Industrial mechanical room with tall white pressure vessels on red skids, overhead piping, a red scissor lift, and a large green compressor with a touchscreen.
Although faced with numerous unique challenges, the project continuously prioritized safety, quality, and open communication.

Safe Solutions for a Complex Power Delivery 

Working on a live facility with aggressive deadlines created several unique challenges, particularly when it came to delivering power safely and efficiently. "We were in lockout/tagout mode for almost half the project," says Carner Mosco, Assistant Project Manager at Interstates. "While it helped the project to have power, it meant we had to be more intentional about our work." Lockout/tagout mode protects against unintentional exposure to hazardous energy from equipment and machinery. A lockout device, such as a padlock, secures the energy-isolating device, while a tagout device (i.e., a tag) warns team members not to use the equipment. 

One key example of intentional problem-solving came during power delivery to the ASRS. "We couldn't shut off the panel to terminate the wires, so we installed a junction box above the main switchgear," Mosco explains. "That allowed us to route the wires and complete downstream work without needing access to the live gear, ultimately helping us meet deadlines while maintaining safety." 

Carlos Aguilar, Superintendent at Interstates, adds, "You never know what could happen when energizing gear for the first time. But having our QA process and qualified personnel do inspections helped us mitigate that risk across multiple energizations." 

Another power-related hurdle involved a long-lead item for a specific transformer lug. "We brainstormed with the engineer and came up with a way to use the available space and safely terminate two cables where one was expected," says Mosco. "It was one of many situations where our team had to think on our feet." 

Thoughtful Field Execution and Client Collaboration 

VDC allowed the team to model deep underground electrical installations, some nearing 20 feet below ground. Aguilar emphasizes the complexity: "We had tasks where we had to be 14 feet deep in a trench. We had to understand all hazards and ensure everyone stayed safe. It was a different beast." 

Interstates also took a deliberate approach to retrofit work, assigning experienced crew members to maintain quality and consistency. "We tried to keep the same people in the existing plant when available," said Mosco. "We wanted Blue Bell to be comfortable reaching out with questions, and they got to know our team." 

Aguilar echoes the importance of communication, saying, "We built a strong relationship with our main point of contact to ensure we understood all the proper steps before entering the existing facility." 

High‑bay industrial room with exposed pipes and conduit under bright strip lights; a yellow‑railed catwalk and stairs lead to a platform with large fans at the far end.
Intentional problem-solving and a collaborative partnership are the foundation of a successful project.

Delivering Results and Building Trust

Throughout the project, Interstates brought technical know-how and flexibility, often becoming the go-to electrical problem-solvers. "The client was able to lean on us to come up with the solutions and get them verified, rather than waiting on answers," says Mosco. The team kept the project on track despite challenges by maintaining open communication with Brasfield & Gorrie and Blue Bell. 

"Working hand-in-hand with Brasfield & Gorrie when we had issues and providing a plan helped strengthen the relationship with the project team," said Aguilar. 

Ultimately, Interstates' proactive mindset and commitment to collaboration helped Blue Bell meet its project goals safely, efficiently, and with confidence in the power behind its new expansion.