DistribuTECH is the place for professionals from utilities, technology companies, and service providers to meet under one roof for a solid week of learning, networking, and looking to the future of the power delivery industry. There’s no doubt this year’s DistribuTECH will continue to set the standard for compelling content and discussion. If you’re planning on attending, here are four things you can’t miss:

Industry Leading Keynote

The DistribuTECH 2017 keynote session will continue the tradition of featuring highly respected industry experts who will share their views on the challenges and opportunities utilities face. Attendees will hear what these experts believe utilities must do to not only survive but thrive, now and in the future. They will also share their thoughts about the digital transformation that is redefining utilities and their customers.

In addition, Geoff Colvin, Fortune magazine’s senior editor-at-large, will share his views on how the digital transformation and other complex issues are impacting the economy and business, particularly energy-related business. He will present insights aimed at helping managers and leaders understand what the future holds.

Engaging Panel Sessions

With more than 70 options to choose from, there’s no shortage of panel sessions at DistribuTECH. Attendees can choose to follow certain tracks (like Distributed Energy Resource (DER), Demand Response (DR) and Other Non-wires Alternatives, microgrids, or Defending the Grid) or craft their own agenda. No matter what track you choose, there is one panel session that you won’t want to miss featuring OATI subject matter experts.

1.    Dr. Ali Ipakchi, Sr. V.P. Smart Grid and Green Power at OATI will also be presenting during the Next Generation Distribution Grid: Grid 3.0 panel. This mega session will discuss drivers, enablers, barriers, and support structures that leads toward a future grid while leveraging industry, regulatory, standards, technology/vendor input, and utility experiences. Don’t miss your chance to secure your spot!

One-Stop-Shop Networking

Between breakfast roundtables and various receptions, there’s no shortage of networking opportunities at DistribuTECH. The roundtable discussions in particular, which are focused on specific industry topics and are moderated by leading professionals in each field, provide excellent opportunities to network with peers while engaging with industry experts.

Innovative Solution Demos

At DistribuTECH 2017, more than 500 exhibitors will fill the exhibition hall to showcase their innovative solution offerings. This year, OATI will be demonstrating the latest in Distributed Energy Resource Management Systems (DERMS), microgrid optimization, transmission grid services, and Smart Grid data acquisition and asset control. If you’re interested in learning about a specific solution, stop by our booth (#2137) for a quick demo.

I hope to see you in San Diego!

About the Author:
Linda Stevens is Sr. Director of Sales for OATI’s grid modernization solutions. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Organizational Management and Leadership from Concordia University, St. Paul, MN. Ms. Stevens has dedicated her career to the energy industry. She began in an Investor Owned Utility where she learned firsthand about utility operations. This experience transitioned to an energy industry software and technology sales career path. Through a network of direct OATI sales executives, key technology alliances, and an industry leading distribution channel, she drives the strategic sales initiatives for OATI’s grid modernization (or Smart Grid) portfolio, with an emphasis on solutions for cooperatives and municipals.