With the close of 2012 NEPPA is closing the book on a historic year. We built and moved into a permanent home. In the process, we upgraded our Training Center by adding confined space, substation, a meter lab and internal pole yard training areas! Thanks to all of the members who made this possible through your support of the assessment and to all of the additional contributors listed in this issue of eNewsline. We are still seeking some donations; please see updated wish list on our website.
2012 was also a big year for change to our programs. We have standardized and included new programs in our catalog and added practical skill thresholds to our apprentice program. We have the most comprehensive and best designed education programs for public power employees and commissioners in the northeast! While others may brag, we actually deliver with solid trustworthy trainers and programs.
So, what could we possibly do in 2013? We will continue to revamp and add services. But, in 2013 we are going to work on improving how we communicate with you and how we promote the industry. We are currently seeking feedback on our website. We plan to make it more interactive and searchable and are looking at revamping every element. So, please help us by reaching out to Courtney Crouse our Communications Manager at ccrouse@neppa.org. We are accepting feedback until January 1st, when we will begin assimilating the information.
We will also be looking at revisions to eNewsline, so feel free to send feedback on the publication as well.
If you do nothing else based on this issue of eNewsline, go to your computer calendar and enter the following dates! Here are the eight things that you need to do or support in 2013:
1. March 11-13th - NEPPA participates in the APPA Rally: join us in D.C. and have an impact on the issues affecting all of us. This past year we actually created movement on transmission incentive rates. In 2013 we have to protect tax exempt funding sources!
2. April 17-19th - PUMP. Who at your utility could use a refresher or focus on all of the elements of operating a utility? Perfect for new or continuing commissioners!
3. May/June - The return of the Engineering and Operations conference. A diligent group of volunteers have been working tirelessly to re-invent this essential program. Will you be there when it is unveiled or will you be the person regretting you missed it?
4. June Customer Service Conference - We often forget the hard working folks who keep our strong relations with our communities. This is a day to sharpen our skills and recognize those shining stars among us.
5. June 19-20th - NEPPA’s Annual Apprentice Rodeo - Help us christen our new home/competition site. Come out and support your apprentices and cheer on these hardworking students!
6. August 25-28th - Annual Conference, Stowe Vermont. The buzz from the 2012 programing still continues. Will you be at this premier location when our outstanding speakers enthrall and spark debates over issues affecting the public power community?
7. November 1st - Annual Membership Meeting. Come to your home in Littleton and hear about how 2013 shaped up, and NEPPA’s plans for 2014. Give leaders your feedback on the direction of NEPPA.
8. November 6-8th - Part two of our Public Utility Management Program and the graduation of our 2013 participants.
In 2013 we plan to continue to advance services to you, protect your interests, and improve our relations by enhancing our communications and technology. I hope that you will be an active participant!
P.S. - Thank you to all of the staff, trainers and members that made all of our 2012 improvements possible.