An intelligent graphic human/machine interface unit (GHMI) for a power controller device detects, via visual sensors, a user proximate to the device and transitions from “sleep” to “command” mode. When in “command” mode, a user may authenticate themselves to the device, and provide (e.g., in “active” mode) control input for executing device functions, either via a touchscreen display of the GHMI unit or via unlock and command gestures manually performed by the user, detected by the visual sensors, and decoded by the GHMI controller. Command gestures may be mapped to specific control functions and/or command sequences commonly executed by the power controller device. By allowing a user to provide authentication and control input via signed gestures, a user wearing protective gloves or other protective gear precluding use of a capacitive touchscreen may interact with, monitor, or manage the power controller device normally.