Modernization, security, and reliability are priorities for utilities everywhere, but knowing where to begin is anything but clear. Cut through the noise surrounding these terms and gain insights from a panel of technology and engineering experts on how technology assessments can help utilities identify and pursue the right goals — even with limited resources and a team already hard at work. Learn which factors weigh heavily in smart technology decisions and leave with practical guidance for taking the first step toward making the right technology decisions for your utility.

Light Up Navajo is an initiative of the Navajo Tribal Utility Authority in coordination with the American Public Power Association to help bring electricity to families in the Navajo Nation for the first time. Learn why the effort is so important and how your utility can get involved. Hear from previous years’ participants what they took away from this life-changing experience.

Explore how utilities are modernizing utility inspections and patrols through dock-based drone operations and learn how fixed and mobile dock deployments enable routine asset inspections, rapid storm response, and condition-based maintenance across distribution networks — without adding strain to field crews. Review real-world use cases, faster fault localization, and safer post-event assessments while joining a live demonstration of dock-based operations, showcasing how automated workflows integrate into existing utility processes. Discuss how to build a defensible business case for using drones and leave with a clear understanding of how to transition from pilot programs to scalable deployment, and how asset-based drone operations can directly support reliability, resilience, and operational efficiency.

Distribution transformer shortages have exposed significant vulnerabilities in utility procurement strategies, forecasting practices, and domestic supply availability. Municipalities and public power utilities still face extended lead times, budget instability, and stalled infrastructure projects — revealing how purchasing models offer little protection during market disruption. Examine lessons from the 2021 supply crisis and why the next surge will require a different approach. Discuss proactive forecasting, capacity visibility, and supply assurance strategies. Gain practical insights into building resilient supply relationships that support system growth, three-phase expansion, and long-term grid reliability.