NEXT Program
Mon Feb, 2nd
1. Key Accounts University
Calling all Key Accounts Representatives and Managers! In this deep and comprehensive session, you will learn best practices of Key Account leadership, the art of communications, and leveraging technologies like broadband, to help support your crucial loads and your community.
2. The Mega World of Large Tech Loads
Enter the ever-expanding mega world of datacenters, automated warehouses, and tech-heavy industries with a focus on grid stability, interconnection, and utility partnerships. Hear from cooperatives, businesses and developers about how to deftly maneuver in this exciting new space.
Start connecting right away with our national business and energy manager guests in our NEXT Meeting Room. Also, dive into the cutting-edge energy solutions our sponsoring companies can offer.
Erik Qualman, #1 Best Selling Author and Keynote Speaker
Erik Qualman has performed in 55 countries and reached 50 million people. His Socialnomics work has been on 60 Minutes and the Wall Street Journal, and it has been used by the National Guard and NASA. His book Digital Leader propelled him to be voted the 2nd Most Likeable Author in the World behind the Harry Potter series.
Connect with your valued peers, sponsors and subject matter experts in our networking room.
1. What’s NEXT? Futurism & Tech
Take a glimpse at tomorrow’s game-changing technology and how your organization can be on the bleeding edge of energy and workplace solutions.
2. Safety in Your Community
Hear from those leading the way in responding to natural disasters, wildfire mitigation, and supporting first responders.
3. Key Accounts 101
Whether you are new to your co-op, new to the role, or beginning a key accounts initiative, learn the essential building blocks of a robust, proactive Key Accounts program.
Welcome Reception
Enjoy the beautiful scenery of El Conquistador Tucson while connecting with peers and new friends.
Tue Feb, 3rd
Hear from a trifecta of national industry experts on the drivers of reliability and resiliency. See a window into local business and key account engagement in Arizona.
Energize Sessions to Share Ideas
Options A (30 minutes)
- Microgrid Solutions
- Serving Data Centers
- EV charging infrastructure
Options B (30 minutes)
- Smart Buildings (Cooperative Building Solutions)
- Serving Rural Loads
- Proactive Peak Shaving
All attendees are welcome to share a meal with their NEXT peers.
4. National Energy and Regulatory Perspective
How will government regulations and energy policy impact your business or utility? Come hear from experts who engage with our federal decision makers around reliable and affordable energy.
5. Local Utility & Key Account Spotlight
The relationship between the distribution cooperative and their key accounts is vital. Hear local examples from businesses served by Trico Electric Cooperative and how they collaborate for win-win outcomes.
6. Microgrids & Demand Response: Business Spotlight
Hear from a Key Account who increased their reliability through microgrid and demand response strategy.
Connect with your valued peers, sponsors and subject matter experts in our networking room.
7. Large Tech and Vital Community Loads (Datacenters, Hospitals, Schools, Military & More)
Dive into the world of large tech loads and vital community partners that have larger and more complex energy needs than ever before.
8. Artificial Intelligence: Utility & Business Application
Real world examples of how AI served utilities and businesses by delivering predictive data, workplace efficiency, and cost savings.
9. What is Your NEXT Big Project?
Hear how rural communities are organizing, funding and completing projects to attract business and spark ongoing economic development.
Join us for a memorable evening designed to foster meaningful connections between businesses and electric cooperatives. This reception offers a relaxed and engaging atmosphere where industry professionals can network, share ideas, and celebrate collaboration. Whether you're deepening existing relationships or forging new ones, this gathering is a perfect opportunity to connect with peers who are shaping the future of energy and service excellence.
Wed Feb, 4th
10. Battery Storage & DERMs
As distributed energy resources (DERs) and large, flexible loads are turning to DERMS platforms to maintain reliability, improve engage member engagement, and deliver programs for commercial & industrial key accounts.
11. Smart Grid, Resiliency & Reliability
More information coming soon!
12. Project Management Roundtable Conversations
Engage with your utility and business peers about the opportunities and challenges around supply chain, procurement and meeting demand in a tricky economic environment.
Ryan Lavarnway, Former MLB Player, World Series Champion, and Olympian
As someone who’s been added to and removed from Major League Baseball rosters more than anyone else in history, Ryan’s story isn’t just about success—it highlights the power of perseverance. Overcoming every obstacle, he built an impressive 10-year MLB career as a catcher, became a World Series Champion, and competed as an Olympian.
More information coming soon!