Register now for MEUW’s Annual Conference next month: There’s still time is to register for this year’s Annual Conference in La Crosse before the “early bird” discount expires next week. You won’t want to miss the great agenda or the opportunity to connect with your colleagues from across the state. The Annual Conference will take place May 14–16 in La Crosse, with the bulk of the programming (and the awards ceremony) set for Thursday, May 15. You’re invited to attend as much or as little of the conference as your schedule allows. Join in the golf outing Wednesday morning, a tour of Dairyland Power Cooperative’s facilities Wednesday afternoon, and then a welcome reception aboard a riverboat on Wednesday evening, May 14. Registrations received by May 1 receive a $30 discount. Click here to learn more. Be sure to register no later than May 9.
Take time to thank a volunteer this week: April 20–26 is designated as National Volunteer Week, giving us a great opportunity to recognize the impact of volunteer service and the power of volunteers to build stronger communities. We know that many of our members give back in a variety of ways, including as volunteer firefighters and emergency responders. We also extend a special thanks to the members of MEUW’s Board of Directors and those who work on MEUW Committees. They volunteer their time and expertise to help deliver on MEUW’s mission to unify and strengthen public power utilities, and we appreciate their support.
Governor proclaims April as Safe Digging Month: The Public Service Commission of Wisconsin announced that Governor Tony Evers proclaimed April as Safe Digging Month, raising awareness of the importance of calling Diggers Hotline before before they dig. The Governor’s full proclamation can be found here.
MEUW’s Board of Directors Meeting was held in De Forest on April 8. The draft minutes of the meeting are available here (member login is required).
In case you missed it, we celebrated National Lineman Day April 18! Together, MEUW member utilities employ more than 300 linemen across Wisconsin and we were glad to use the day to share our appreciation for all that they do. As they say, “when the lights go out, so do they.” MEUW gathered photos from members across the state as they celebrated their lineworkers. View the gallery here.
Spots still open in Excavation Competent Person workshops: Well-trained employees are the best defense against injuries on the job. Excavations represent a common hazard faced by utility employees. MEUW is pleased to offer Excavation Competent Person training that includes both classroom and hands-on field training. Attendees will review OSHA’s 29 CFR 1926 Subpart P Excavation Standard (adopted and enforced by the state under SPS 332) and learn safety aspects, potential hazards, protective systems and planning for safe excavation and trenching. Several workshops have already filled up; choose from among three remaining locations ― Kaukauna (May 29); Waunakee (June 3); or New Holstein (June 4). Full details can be found here.
Utility Planning & Risk Management registration is open: Take the next step in your professional development and register for this course. As part of MEUW’s professional development programming, this course explains the basics of strategic and operational planning, why planning matters, and how well-thought-out plans and careful assessments of risks can contribute to long-term success. Led by Dave Krause, P.E., Engineering Operations Manager for EPS Engineering & Design, Inc., this one-day class is for individuals tasked with oversight for municipal utility operations, including Utility Commissioners and Council members. The class will be held Wednesday, June 4, in Mauston ― details and registration are available here.
Do you communicate professionally and clearly? It’s not as easy as it seems. The next class in our “Power of One” virtual training series will help participants master the art of clear and professional communication across email, text, and phone interactions. This course covers phone skills such as active listening and gathering key information to ensure effective outcomes. Explore etiquette, policies, and legal considerations for written communication. Learn to craft concise, impactful emails and texts that enhance customer service and reflect professionalism. This 90-minute virtual training will be held at 10 a.m. on Thursday, May 22. Increase your communication skills – register today!