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Home2026 Conference Program

2026 WiNUP International Conference

Indianapolis, IN | SeptEMBER 20-23, 2026


Attendee Information Hotel Information Register for Conference

Conference Speakers 2026 Conference Sponsors Become A Sponsor

Pre-Conference Activities

Saturday, September 19

WiNUP Executive Committee Meeting

Noon to 5:00 p.m. | Executive Boardroom

Executive Committee members and invited guests

Sunday, September 20

Meeting Schedule (Illinois Street Ballroom):

9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. | WiNUP International Board Meeting

International Board Representatives and invited guests

2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. | WiNUP Chapter Chair Meeting

Chapter Chairs or designated proxies

4:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. | First Time Attendee & New Member Orientation


Conference Opening Activities (Grand Hall Foyer/IRON HORSE):

4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. | General Registration

6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. | Welcome Reception

8:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. | 2027 Conference Event

 

Conference Program

Monday, September 21

7:00 a.m. to 11 a.m. | Registration | Grand Hall Foyer

7:00 a.m. to 8 a.m. | Breakfast | Grand Hall & Alcoves


General Sessions (Grand Hall):

8:00 a.m. to 8:30 a.m. | Conference Welcome & Safety Briefing, Opening Remarks

     
 Rebecca Ashack
2027 Conference Committee Chair		    Rebecca Ashack
Kristin Duggins
WiNUP President & CEO		    

 

8:30 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. |"Full Steam Ahead: From Shrinking to Shaping the Future" Keynote Address

This interactive keynote workshop invites participants to identify and reframe the internal “faulty programs” that can limit confidence, influence, and impact. Through reflection, dialogue, and practical tools, attendees will explore how to lead with courage, strengthen their voice, and shape the future of the utility industry from any role or level.

Rosie Ward, PhD, MPH, BCC

Award-Winning Leadership Expert and CEO,
Salveo Partners		    

10:45 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. | Break


11:00 a.m. to noon |"From Technical Knowledge to Real Influence" Panel Discussion

This panel explores how technical expertise alone is not enough to drive impact in today’s utility environment. Success depends on how effectively that knowledge is communicated across field and office roles, varying experience levels, and diverse team dynamics. Panelists will share real-world strategies for bridging communication gaps, building credibility, and influencing decisions—ensuring technical insights are heard, understood, and acted upon.

Facilitator: Marisa Valdez

Panelist: Julie Oakley

Manager of Constructability, Electric Major Projects - NiSource

    
Panelist: Toni Garza

Toni Garza Consulting, LLC

    Toni Garza
 Panelist: JESSICA FRANKLIN

Director, System Operations, AES Indiana | AES Ohio

    Jessica Franklin


Noon to 5 p.m. | Small-Group Tours & STEM Activity (see below for further details)

Tuesday, September 22

7:00 a.m. to 11 a.m. | Registration | Grand Hall Foyer

7:00 a.m. to 8 a.m. | Breakfast | Grand Hall


General Sessions (Grand Hall):

8:00 a.m. to 8:15 a.m. | Morning Welcome & Safety Briefing

8:15 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. | WiNUP Annual Business Meeting

 2026 Executive Committee   Kristin Duggins - International President & CEO
Nikki Militello -  International Vice President/President-Elect
Trishia Swayne - Immediate Past President
Cindy Owen - International Secretary
Judy Hurd - International Treasurer
Lisa Morinini - Executive Director
Dorothy Stoler - Parliamentarian

9:00 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. | WiNUP Website & Social Media Updates

ShannaHartung

Shanna Hartung

International Website & Social Media Committee Chair


9:30 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. | Break


10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. | "From Entry to Expert: Career Paths in the Utility Industry" Panel Discussion

This panel will spotlight career opportunities across the utility industry and help attendees understand the wide range of roles available—spanning entry-level operations support, engineering, finance, IT, and more. The conversation is designed to be practical and encouraging, especially for women exploring the field or considering a change within it.

Facilitator: Rebecca Ashack

Panelist: Robin Shrader

Executive Director, Marion Utilities

Panelist: Amy King

Safety & Regulatory Compliance Coordinator, Northeastern REMC

Panelist: lori sutton
EVP, Chief Human Resources Officer, American Water 


11:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. | Chapter & Committee Photos (schedule to follow)


11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. | Luncheon Fireside Chat With Sarah Fisher 
Sponsored by the WiNUP International Past Presidents
Join the WiNUP Past Presidents for a unique "fireside" chat and Q&A with IndyCar racing legend and Indianapolis' own, Sarah Fisher. A true pioneer in sports, Fisher became only the third woman to qualify for the Indianapolis 500, and she would go on to compete in the race nine times — the most appearances by a woman in the event’s 110-year history.

facilitator: Trishia Swayne
Immediate Past President
 Sarah Fisher Sarah Fisher
IndyCar Race Driver


1:00 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. | Break


1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. | First Breakout Session

Advance registration required, see below for additional details

2:30 p.m. to 2:45 p.m. | Transition to Second Breakout Session


2:45 p.m. to 3:45 p.m. | Second Breakout Session

Advance registration required, see below for additional details

3:45 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. | Banquet Preparation Time


5:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. | Annual Banquet

See below for additional details

Wednesday, September 23

7:00 a.m. to 8 a.m. | Breakfast | Grand Hall

 

General Sessions (Grand Hall):

8:00 a.m. to 8:30 a.m. | Guided Networking Activity

8:30 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. | Morning Welcome

Safety Message
Morning Welcome
Charity Presentation    
2027 Conference Teaser    

9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. | "Resilient by Design: Leading Critical Infrastructure Into the Future" Panel Discussion

This executive panel will explore how utility leaders are strengthening the resiliency of critical infrastructure while preparing for the future of the industry. Panelists will discuss the leadership, collaboration, innovation, and long-term planning needed to manage emerging risks, support reliable service, and guide essential utility operations through change.

   

Facilitator: Checobia Crawford
 Lynnae Wilson   Lynnae Wilson
Sr. VP Transformation Strategy & Execution, American Water
 Sandy Nessing   Sandy Nessing
Sr. Advisor Environment, Health, Safety & Sustainability, TRC Companies
 Michael Coyle   Michael Coyle
Chief Culture & Community Officer, PJM Interconnection
 Laura Arenschield    Laura Arenschield
VP Customer Experience, AEP Ohio

10:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. | Break


10:30 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. | "The New Infrastructure Triangle: Power, Water and Data" Panel Discussion

Power. Water. Data. The future of utility infrastructure sits at the intersection of all three. As AI and cloud technologies accelerate demand for data centers, utilities are being challenged to plan for unprecedented growth while maintaining reliability, affordability, and public trust. Hear from industry experts on emerging trends, lessons learned, innovative solutions, and what utility professionals should expect in the decade ahead.

Facilitator: Rebecca Ashack

Panelist: ashley savieo

Director of Customer Service and Business Development, Indiana Michigan Power

Panelist: Christina Owens

Director of Resource Planning, ACES

11:45 a.m. to noon | Closing Remarks

Tour Option 1: The Go Game

Maximum 75 people

Imagine if the "Amazing Race", "America’s Funniest Home Videos," and Cranium got together and had a party on your phone. The Go Game, a smartphone-driven scavenger hunt on steroids, is a fantastic opportunity to network and team build, and it stars you and your fellow WiNUP teammates! Our host will kick off the game at our conference hotel, and then teams will venture out to the game zone (around our conference hotel) utilizing the mobile platform to score points, take on challenges and missions, and have a blast! We will top off the fun with an awards ceremony and prizes for the winners! 

Please note that this is a physically active tour and will include approximately 60 - 90 minutes of walking in and around our conference hotel.

Tour Option 2: Gainbridge Field House & Lucas Oil Stadium

Maximum 75 people

This is an exciting walking tour of two nearby sports complexes: Gainbridge Field House, the proud home of the Indianapolis Pacers (basketball), and Lucas Oil Stadium, where the Indianapolis Colts (football) play. Both tours will be led by knowledgeable tour guides, who will showcase the stadiums’ many impressive features and amenities while answering any questions you may have. Gainbridge Fieldhouse is committed to sustainability and has partnered with AES Indiana to power its facilities with renewable energy credits. These credits will offset energy usage during major events like NBA All-Star 2024. Lucas Oil Stadium has a renewable energy certificate purchase through Green Mountain Energy, which covers all major venues in the NFL, including Lucas Oil Stadium. This purchase includes 15,000 megawatt hours of renewable energy, which will power various facilities within the stadium, such as the media center and lights for the games. Lucas Oil Stadium is a fully accessible facility equipped with ramps, escalators, and elevators for those needing accommodation. 

Please note that this is a physically active tour and will include approximately 2.5 hrs. of walking, including about a mile of outdoor walking between facilities and the hotel.

Tour Option 3: Crowne Plaza Hotel Tour & Charitable Activity

Maximum 50 people

Step into the story of the Crowne Plaza Union Station Hotel—a place that’s been buzzing with energy since 1853, when it became the nation’s first ‘union’ station and brought four competing rail lines together under one roof. Picture the clatter of trains, the bustle of travelers, and the excitement of a brand new era of transportation as you explore the original brick-and-frame building. Your guide will lead you through the space, sharing surprising tidbits, hidden details, and the kind of fun facts that make the past feel alive. After soaking in the history, jump into a hands on activity where everyone teams up to assemble items for a local charity—turning a fascinating tour into a feel good experience that makes a real impact.

This activity only involves a little walking, and you will not be leaving the hotel.

To help you make the most of your selected tour and ensure everything runs smoothly, the 2026 International Conference Tours Committee has put together some helpful information. Click on the button below to download the document.

2026 WiNUP Conference Tours-Know Before You Go

Breakout Session 1 Options

Option 1 - All Aboard the "AI" Train: Using AI Tools

Facilitator - Megan Miller
Speaker - John Qualls, Managing Partner, Big Impact Group

This interactive workshop will introduce practical applications of Artificial Intelligence for utility professionals, with a focus on large language models such as Microsoft Copilot. Participants will gain a foundational understanding of how AI works, see a live demonstration, and learn effective prompting techniques to enhance productivity, decision-making, and everyday workflows. Designed for all experience levels, the session emphasizes real-world use cases and empowers attendees to confidently explore AI as a tool in their professional roles.

Option 2 - Get on Board: Turning Membership into Momentum

Facilitator -Checobia Crawford and Emily Schilling
Speakers - Megan Keen, Senior Sales Consultant, Tennesee Valley Authority; Nikki Militello, Sr. Manager-Interconnection Projects, PJM Interconnection

This dynamic, member-driven conversation will explore what fuels engagement, strengthens chapters, and turns connection into momentum for the journey ahead.

Option 3 - The Regulatory Process: Different Solutions for Different Customers

Facilitators - Shelby Leisz and Lynn Adamson

Speakers - Sharon Schroder, Managing Director Regulatory Affairs, AES Ohio; Beth Heline, General Counsel, IURC; Debi Bardhan-Akala, Director Regulatory & External Affairs, Citizens Energy Group; Jennifer Goodin, Director Regulatory Services, Indiana Michigan Power

This breakout session features a panel discussion with utility regulatory employees and commission staff about how a utility rate case takes shape. We’ll talk through how different customer classes - from residential to commercial/industrial - are analyzed and what is considered during rate design. Get an inside look at the intricacies involved in this process.

Option 4 - The Leadership Engine: Communication, Culture, and Connection

Facilitator - Laura Havis
Speaker - Jealeania "Lena" Morris, Founder & CEO, Authentic Encounters, LLC

This session will explore the core elements that power impactful leadership in today’s utility organizations. This dynamic session focuses on how intentional communication, strong workplace culture, and authentic connection drive engagement, trust, and performance. Through practical insights and real-world examples, participants will gain tools to strengthen relationships, lead with clarity, and foster inclusive, resilient teams—empowering women leaders to influence positive change within their organizations and the utility industry as a whole.

Breakout Session 2 Options

Option 1 - All Aboard the "AI" Train: Using AI Tools 

Facilitator - Megan Miller
Speaker - John Qualls, Managing Partner, Big Impact Group

This interactive workshop will introduce practical applications of Artificial Intelligence for utility professionals, with a focus on large language models such as Microsoft Copilot. Participants will gain a foundational understanding of how AI works, see a live demonstration, and learn effective prompting techniques to enhance productivity, decision-making, and everyday workflows. Designed for all experience levels, the session emphasizes real-world use cases and empowers attendees to confidently explore AI as a tool in their professional roles.

Option 2 - On Track for Change: Aligning People, Process, and Leadership

Facilitator – Checobia Crawford
Speaker - Shara Hutchinson, Principal Change Strategist, Xposeyour

You may not be driving the change- but you play a critical role in whether it succeeds or fails. This session will introduce key change management principles, what they look like in practice, and how to recognize them within your organization. Attendees will walk away with the confidence and tools to become a proactive advocate who help move change forward instead of reacting to it.

Option 3 - Achieve Culture and Community Goals in a Hybrid Workspace

Facilitator – Rashida Gittens
Speaker - Michael Coyle, Chief Culture & Community Officer, PJM Interconnection

This break-out session will address the evolving world of work and workplace culture. Our work environments include on-site, remote and hybrid for our teams. Culture programs have historically been focused on the physical workplace. That focus has to change and how we need to think, act and feel must also change to develop and achieve our company goals. Intentionality, clarity and community building are some of the ways we address this change through programming. In doing so they open us to evolve and create a workplace that is welcoming and engaging for everyone, wherever they work.

Option 4 - How Does Your Career Shape Your Professional Identity?

Facilitator – Laura Havis
Speaker - Bekah Selking, Leadership Development Consultant, ADVISA

Learn how your career phases determine who you are in the workplace, how you see yourself and how others see you. When you discover the professional roles that are best aligned to your strengths and values, you’ll be more likely to achieve your career goals.

 

Tuesday Evening: WiNUP Annual Awards Banquet

"All Aboard the WiNUP Express! The Golden Age of Rail"


Banquet Attire Guidelines

Wear jewel or earth tones for elegance – emerald green, sapphire blue, rich burgundy, mahogany brown

Add brown leather accents – belts, shoes, or bags for a nostalgic feel

Elevate with vintage travel elegance – silk scarves, gloves, hats, vintage brooches


A prize will be awarded for the best interpretation of the theme!


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Women's International Network of Utility Professionals is a not-for-profit 501 (c) (6) organization under the IRA Code.  Section 501 (c) (6) of the IRS code provides for the exemption of business leagues - which is an association of individuals with a common business interest.  Contributions to WiNUP are not tax deductible as a charitable donation.  Contributions may qualify as a business expense.  Donors should consult a tax professional.