Register now for upcoming lineworker training in Eau Claire: Every year, Chippewa Valley Technical College (CVTC) hosts a two-day workshop focused on important topics essential to lineworker safety and training. Through a new collaboration, MEUW is now helping to organize the training topics and presenters. The 2023 version of the Apparatus Workshop will cover jobsite safety, capacitors, voltage regulators, reclosers, trip savers, meters, and streetlights, among other topics. CVTC’s third-year electric line apprentices will attend the training, which is also open to lineworkers of all experience levels. The interactive group sessions allow for hands-on training and valuable networking. Training is planned for Feb. 14 and 15 at CVTC’s Energy Education Center in Eau Claire. The cost is $150 per person. Full details and registration info are here.
Applications for Safety Awards now being accepted: MEUW enjoys recognizing member utilities for taking steps to improve their overall safety performance. We are now accepting applications for 2022 performance measures. Each utility is encouraged to take time to compile the necessary information and submit the application spreadsheet, which is available at MEUW.org/safetyawards. The deadline to submit the required documentation is Wednesday, March 1. The awards will be presented at the Annual Conference in May.
Communications & Project Management training is Feb. 15: MEUW is launching a new approach to its professional development programs this year. The first course in the new four-part “Fundamentals of Utility Management” training series will teach participants about effective communications and project management and why they are important to operating a successful municipal utility. The one-day training is scheduled for Wednesday, Feb. 15, in Mauston, and is designed for municipal workers of all skill levels and backgrounds as a foundation for understanding the public power industry. The discussion will be especially helpful for newcomers and those who aspire to expanded responsibilities. Full details are available here.
NESC Code is changing ― learn how it affects your municipal utility: The National Electrical Safety Code (NESC) is the go-to standard for electric and telecom utility companies. The code is updated every five years (the 2023 edition was released last August and will become effective Feb. 1). MEUW is holding a one-day seminar to enable members to learn about the fundamental applications of the NESC to electric utility transmission and distribution systems and be informed about the important 2023 updates. The seminar is planned for Thursday, Feb. 23, at The Lodge At Mauston and will be led by Bruce Beth and Justin Franz from Forster Electrical Engineering. The program will include group discussions and Q&A around rule interpretations, compliance issues, with information about resources for help. Full details and registration information is available on MEUW’s website here.
Registration is now open for Watt-Hour Meter Institute: MEUW will host its annual metering workshop March 14-16 in Green Bay, and the program has a new focus for 2023. The yearly training helps meter technicians learn more about new technologies and approved work practices. Recognizing that lineworkers are often tasked with installing meter sets, this year’s workshop will provide a back-to-basics understanding for anyone who needs to expand their knowledge about the intricacies of meter installations and why the details matter. Through classroom and hands-on training, the program will benefit the beginner, intermediate, and experienced utility lineworker, covering topics like verifying and identifying metering inaccuracies, and choosing the correct metering equipment. The workshop is planned for Northeast Wisconsin Technical College in Green Bay and there will be options to attend all or part of the three-day workshop. Full details and registration info are here.