Technical Training Courses

This week-long series of classes is designed to provide line crew foremen with knowledge and skills outside the scope of fundamental linework. This will allow them to be more effective leaders and supervisors as well as help them understand their role and responsibilities of their job within the utility. The three-track series will cover topics for the new line-foreman to the experienced line-foreman. Subject areas include leadership, safety, technical and management skills. Individuals attending the Academy will receive a certificate for each class completed as well as an overall certificate for the week. Track 3 addresses interpersonal and communication skills, line staking and accident investigation and emergency communication. The online DISC profile completed for Track II will be used during this class.

This comprehensive exam is the final step in completing the TVPPA Lineman Apprenticeship Program (Legacy, Millennial, and Revised Editions). It includes written and field skills elements exam. In order to pass you must satisfactorily complete all critical elements and objectives

Within a classroom setting this is the first of four modules. Students will receive a hard-copy workbook in class. Tests will be administered by the instructor. Students will be required to pass each lesson test with a 70 or above in order to continue to the next lesson.

The purpose of this training is to insure the safe and responsible operation of a Digger Derrick truck. With this training the intended outcome is for all those that are using these devices acquire the knowledge and skills to operate the equipment safely and productively.

In the final Level 4 course, students focus on line design efficiency, reliability and the aging power infrastructure. Students learn about mechanical loading for multi-circuits, learn about commercial load sizing and the process of calculating loads on manufactured products. Students review the NESC and learn when and how to apply Rule 250 C and D. Classroom discussion includes a brief look at how local requirements and/or RUS standards and bulletins incorporate (and compare to) NESC rules. System protection and balance includes equipment descriptions and purpose, and an overview of smart grid and distribution automation, storm preparation (hardening of the system) and recovery (getting the system back operational). Course manual provided. Final exam. Certificate of successful completion.

This 3-day lab will teach students the installation process of running fiber into a home or business. Students will also learn about different ONTs and systems they might use to assist with installation of fiber as well as troubleshooting. This lab will transition to the final exam that students will take after the final parts of the class are covered.

This course provides a basic survey of electric utility operations, from generation at the power plant to distribution to the end-use customer. Topics covered include methods of generation, high voltage transmission, distribution methods, electrical terminology, and usage measurement through metering and billing. Emphasis is placed on how to improve business transactions for the customer that you will be handling. This is a basic overview course targeted only for the non-technical employee or board member. This is a NASBA approved class. The instructional delivery method is “group-live.” You will receive 7 CPE credits in the Communications field of study. In accordance with the standards of the National Registry of CPE Sponsors, CPE Credits have been granted based on a 50- minute hour. The program level is Basic. There are not any prerequisites for this course.

This week-long series of classes is designed to provide line crew foremen with knowledge and skills outside the scope of fundamental linework. This will allow them to be more effective leaders and supervisors as well as help them understand their role and responsibilities of their job within the utility. The three-track series will cover topics for the new line-foreman to the experienced line-foreman. Subject areas include leadership, safety, technical and management skills. Individuals attending the Academy will receive a certificate for each class completed as well as an overall certificate for the week. Track 2 addresses team building, generations in the workplace, regulatory compliance, the impact of safety on insurance premiums and understanding and conducting performance appraisals. Students must complete an online DISC profile before attending. Instructions to access the profile will be sent two weeks prior to the start of class.

This course covers all elements of determining short-circuit values, including the construction of one-line & impedance diagrams, working with per-unit quantities, symmetrical components, sequence networks, symmetrical and unsymmetrical faults, transformer through-faults, fault mitigation techniques, system anomalies, open-circuit situations, and other advanced topics not normally found in engineering textbooks. The author of the text and course instructor is Ernie Bowles, a 40+ year veteran electrical engineer who spent his utility career at Clinton Utilities Board (CUB) performing engineering analysis, overseeing the utility’s E&O Department, and providing managerial leadership. Ernie is now the owner and principal of EB Consulting founded in 2019, and where he provides various professional engineering consulting services to utilities, industries, and other consulting firms. The course material is based upon decades of real-world experience and is geared more towards application and problem solving as opposed to theoretical concepts. This course is designed for degreed electrical engineers and is sure to prove both intriguing and highly challenging, even to P.E.’s with vast utility experience. Course participants will be exposed to the following and other concepts a.) the methods and calculation techniques required to perform short-circuit analysis on electric utility systems; b.) how to handle non-traditional calculations on multi-tapped transformers; c.) three-phase transformer phase shifts, phase identification, and thru-fault analysis; and, d.) recognizing the root cause of various system operating anomalies.

The purpose of this training is to insure the safe and responsible operation of a Digger Derrick truck. With this training the intended outcome is for all those that are using these devices acquire the knowledge and skills to operate the equipment safely and productively.

The purpose of this training is to insure the safe and responsible operation of a Digger Derrick truck. With this training the intended outcome is for all those that are using these devices acquire the knowledge and skills to operate the equipment safely and productively.

This 3 day class looks at the operations of protective devices and how they would function in an emergency situation. You will also learn how to isolate faulted segments of line so that power is restored to customers quickly and safely. The student must have completed Advanced Lineworker Certificate Training Phase 3 to enroll.

Utility Business Strategy is two days of instruction and discussion about business models. It will help participants develop a philosophy of management for either a cooperative or municipal business model. Two instructors will provide insight into the strategic planning process, interaction with business partners, wholesale providers and preparation of budgets. Key business indicators will be discussed and compared to gauge efficiency of the participant`s utility system. Developing industry trends lead to organizational change. Managing that change both among employees and member/consumers will be discussed. The course examines what causes anxiety for utility management and explores way to manage those business dynamics. This is done primarily by the instructors sharing situational examples and class exercises. This course complements another AdvCPE required course entitled ``Business Statistics and Analysis``.

Today, utility customers are looking for more than kWs and meter readings from their utility. In our increasingly complex world, local utilities must support complicated customer relationships and offer specialized products or services to meet specific needs. Knowing how to add value to a customer`s life is a hallmark of great customer service. This class will focus on understanding how we price our primary product, working with customers, and adding value. This is a NASBA approved class. The instructional delivery method is “group-live.” You will receive 7 CPE credits in the Marketing field of study. In accordance with the standards of the National Registry of CPE Sponsors, CPE Credits have been granted based on a 50- minute hour. The program level is Basic. There are not any prerequisites for this course.

The 30-Hour OSHA Outreach Training Program for General Industry is divided into two sessions. Part 1 covers the following topics. Introduction to OSHA, Managing Safety and Health, Walking and Working Surfaces, Emergency Exits, Emergency Action Plans, Fire Prevention and Protection, Electrical Personal Protective Equipment, Hazard Communication, Material Handling. These topics require at least 13 hours of student contact time. The remaining topics will be covered in Part 2.

This course uses group activities to help you learn and grow as a communicator in various situations. The emphasis is placed on creating and recognizing the time to create a memorable experience for the customers. This course is designed to be available for all levels of utility employees. This is a NASBA approved class. The instructional delivery method is “group-live.” You will receive 14 CPE credits in the Communications field of study. In accordance with the standards of the National Registry of CPE Sponsors, CPE Credits have been granted based on a 50- minute hour. The program level is Intermediate. There are not any prerequisites for this course.

The Western District Managers Association meets on the third Thursday of every month from 9:30 AM to 11:30 AM CT at the Jackson Energy Authority training center.

This comprehensive exam is the final step in completing the TVPPA Lineman Apprenticeship Program (Legacy, Millennial, and Revised Editions). It includes written and field skills elements exam. In order to pass you must satisfactorily complete all critical elements and objectives

This five day lab covers a variety of skills including: safety, PPE inspection, grounding, rigging, pole top rescue, aluminum and copper ties, and minimum approach distances. Participants are given a field performance evaluation and a comprehensive written exam. The student must be a qualified climber and have completed the Pre-Apprentice Assessment Workshop.

Electrical Safety provides a comprehensive understanding of theory and industry best practices to ensure personnel safety when dealing with electric power lines and substations. Students review safety equipment testing requirements and procedures for readiness, while learning common sense aspects of safe electrical grounding and how to evaluate jumpers’ expected performance. Students learn to appreciate the rationale behind single-point grounding, proper vehicle safety, and equipment testing while discussing the OSHA safety accountability for proper personnel training and equipment election.

This four day-long series of classes is designed to provide line crew foremen with knowledge and skills outside the scope of fundamental linework. This will allow them to be more effective leaders and supervisors as well as help them understand their role and responsibilities of their job within the utility. The three-track series will cover topics for the new line-foreman to the experienced line-foreman. Subject areas include leadership, safety, technical and management skills. Individuals attending the Academy will receive a certificate for each Track completed and an overall completion certificate if all three Tracks are completed (and the online class Work Zone Traffic Control). Track 1 addresses attitude and responsibility, OSHA standards, labor law and the organizational impact of processing paperwork.

During this 2 day course participants will explore utility-specific Management/Supervision and resource management. As well as personnel practices including Management/Supervision and behavior, employee selection, job analysis, effective staffing, training and development, compensation management, employee appraisals, employment law, case studies. Current issues such as federal regulations, sexual harassment, wellness, and drug testing will also be covered. Trends in utility personnel management are also examined.

This 3 day class looks at the operations of protective devices and how they would function in an emergency situation. You will also learn how to isolate faulted segments of line so that power is restored to customers quickly and safely. The student must have completed Advanced Lineworker Certificate Training Phase 3 to enroll.

Phase 1 topics include distribution cover-up, personal protective grounding, regulators, capacitor safety, wood pole inspection, electric fundamentals for lineman, transformers information for lineman, transformer banking with demo models, transformer (paralleling), transformer troubleshooting. The class is an open discussion, and safety is always a part of every conversation.

TVPPA’s Accounting & Finance Conference is the premier annual event for utility accounting and finance professionals across the Tennessee Valley. Designed for those who manage the essential financial functions that keep local power companies running smoothly, this conference brings together accounting and finance professionals from across the Tennessee Valley for two days of insight, connection, and collaboration.

Attendees will explore best practices, new regulations, emerging tools, and real-world solutions to the financial challenges facing today’s utilities. Through informative sessions, expert-led discussions, and peer networking, the conference offers practical takeaways that support accuracy, compliance, and strategic financial planning.

Whether you're new to utility finance or a seasoned professional, this event is your opportunity to stay sharp, stay informed, and stay connected.

This five day lab covers a variety of skills including: safety, PPE inspection, grounding, rigging, pole top rescue, aluminum and copper ties, and minimum approach distances. Participants are given a field performance evaluation and a comprehensive written exam. The student must be a qualified climber and have completed the Pre-Apprentice Assessment Workshop.

This 5-day lab covers the following: Basic relay co-ordination, Zones of Protection, Relay testing and programming of Schweitzer 351, Standard Electromechanical Relay, Dispatcher Training, Operations Training for How to read One lines, Primary Maps coordination of fuses, ocrs, sectionalizers and S&C Change over devices.

This is the final class in the overall completion of the Advanced Lineworker Certificate Training. This 3 day class discusses pad mounted transformers and switching cabinets, and “live front” and “dead front” for future operations on units. Switching units will also be covered in this section in order to ensure continuity in service that is received when converting. The student must have completed Advanced Lineworker Certificate Training Phase 4 to enroll. Upon completion of an entire program an Overall Completion certificate will given to you for your hard work.

This course is the last of five core curriculum classes needed in order to receive a CPSv certification. During this 2 day class you will build on the principles and techniques learned in Interpersonal Supervisory Skills I and II. The course consists of three modules. Improving Employee Work Habits covers difficult employee situations, and offers techniques for enforcing company policies and regulations in a non-threatening or confrontational way. Dealing with Employee Conflicts shows how to identify employee conflicts and teaches methods of conflict resolution, resolving misunderstandings, and avoiding negative interactions. Communicating with Your Boss teaches specific techniques for framing communications with superiors. Student must have completed Communicating Effectively with Utility Customers, Interpersonal Supervisory Skills I, and Interpersonal Supervisory Skills II to enroll.

Changing management, leadership development and ensuring that you are aligning the HR department with the overall goals of the organization will be outlined. During this 2 day class you will learn how to examine and apply strategies for measuring the outcomes of the organization at four levels. The HR professional will determine an individualized approach for their organization for tracking results and the ROI (Return on Investment).

This 2 day course addresses significant employment law issues including such vital areas as policies, procedures, principles, and management practices. You will learn a step-by-step approach on how to prevent costly work disruptions, employee unrest, and government inquiries. Topics covered include record keeping requirements, discrimination law, and a 1-2-3 approach to understanding lawful practices under state and federal requirements. You will also receive legal information regarding age, race, gender, pregnancy, equal pay, drugs in the workplace, workers` compensation, employee privacy, performance appraisals, discipline, equity in employee recognition systems, diversity and overtime rules.

Many managers find performance appraisals to be one of the most dreaded responsibilities of their position. They find that reviews are done more out of routine than for growth and improvement. If not done correctly, they can certainly do more harm than good. This session will provide guidance for preparing, scheduling and conducting reviews to make the process simpler but far more powerful, useful and enjoyable for the manager and the employee.

This five day lab covers a variety of skills including: URD safety, grounding, cable design and preparation, locating cable, fault finding, URD systems and equipment, trouble shooting, tagging, installation, and fusing. Participants are given a field performance evaluation and comprehensive written exam. The student must have completed Operations Lab 3 to enroll.

For electric utilities, the only aspect of design and engineering more important than reliability is safety. Safety is of utmost importance and, for this reason, all four levels of the Line Design and Staking program have a heavy emphasis on safety. In this advanced course, students who have successfully completed the PLDS program will have the opportunity to expand their knowledge of line design to include standards, calculations and practices that enable designers to produce lines that are safe and reliable. Students will learn how reliability indices work and can be improved through appropriate route selection, pole and hardware choices, customer engagement, line access, visibility, phase configuration, recloser and fuse placement and documentation. Exercises in outage scenarios will demonstrate how all of these aspects of line design and staking can contribute to reliability, as well as, ease and speed of restoration. The certification test for this course will be given online the week following in-class instruction.

TVPPA’s Customer Experience (CX) Conference brings together electric utility professionals in customer service, communications, marketing, and public relations to dive into customer satisfaction strategies, contact center innovations, and communications best practices through sessions led by industry experts and peer presenters. From brand storytelling to outage response, from customer engagement to digital platforms, the content is practical, timely, and designed to deliver results.

This is the perfect event for those who love to connect and collaborate. You’ll enjoy rich discussions, interactive sessions, and valuable networking with professionals who understand the challenges and opportunities of serving utility customers in today’s fast-changing environment.

Today, utility customers are looking for more than kWs and meter readings from their utility. In our increasingly complex world, local utilities must support complicated customer relationships and offer specialized products or services to meet specific needs. Knowing how to add value to a customer`s life is a hallmark of great customer service. This class will focus on understanding how we price our primary product, working with customers, and adding value. This is a NASBA approved class. The instructional delivery method is “group-live.” You will receive 7 CPE credits in the Marketing field of study. In accordance with the standards of the National Registry of CPE Sponsors, CPE Credits have been granted based on a 50- minute hour. The program level is Basic. There are not any prerequisites for this course.

This week-long series of classes is designed to provide line crew foremen with knowledge and skills outside the scope of fundamental linework. This will allow them to be more effective leaders and supervisors as well as help them understand their role and responsibilities of their job within the utility. The three-track series will cover topics for the new line-foreman to the experienced line-foreman. Subject areas include leadership, safety, technical and management skills. Individuals attending the Academy will receive a certificate for each class completed as well as an overall certificate for the week. Track 3 addresses interpersonal and communication skills, line staking and accident investigation and emergency communication. The online DISC profile completed for Track II will be used during this class.

This comprehensive exam is the final step in completing the TVPPA Lineman Apprenticeship Program (Legacy, Millennial, and Revised Editions). It includes written and field skills elements exam. In order to pass you must satisfactorily complete all critical elements and objectives

This comprehensive exam is the final step in completing the TVPPA Lineman Apprenticeship Program (Legacy, Millennial, and Revised Editions). It includes written and field skills elements exam. In order to pass you must satisfactorily complete all critical elements and objectives

This five day lab covers a variety of skills including: safety, hotline tools, protective devices, regulators, capacitors and single line drawing. When trouble shooting it is important to understand the needed protective devises and how they work together. This module also discusses trouble shooting techniques, substation, breakers, fuses, regulators, capacitors, instrumentation and metering. Participants are given a field performance evaluation and comprehensive written exam. The student must have completed Underground Lab 4 to enroll.

This five day lab covers a variety of skills including: safety, job briefings, print reading, guys and anchors, minimum approach distances, overhead construction, grounding, sagging, aluminum ties, and single phase transformer theory. It includes written and field skills element exams. The student must have completed Fundamental Lab 1 to enroll.

This five day lab covers a variety of skills including: safety, job briefings, print reading, guys and anchors, minimum approach distances, overhead construction, grounding, sagging, aluminum ties, and single phase transformer theory. It includes written and field skills element exams. The student must have completed Fundamental Lab 1 to enroll.

This comprehensive exam is the final step in completing the TVPPA Lineman Apprenticeship Program (Legacy, Millennial, and Revised Editions). It includes written and field skills elements exam. In order to pass you must satisfactorily complete all critical elements and objectives

Contracts, Risk & Legal Issues in Vegetation Management

During this 2 day course you will discuss how responsibilities of a human resources professional cross into many very important areas of the organization. One of the areas in which human resources staff must be prepared is risk management and how it will play a role in your personal utility. Topics such as safety, OSHA compliance requirements and record keeping, liabilities, security, drug testing, workplace violence and terrorism, as well as issues such as worker`s compensation will be covered. Real world examples and strategies for risk management will be reviewed for you to gain insight on how others have handled various situations.

Change can be planned or unplanned. Strategic planning is a planned change process designed for creating desired, future results, typically within 3 to 5 years. The design of this workshop focuses on preparing departments/organizations to initiate a strategic planning process and assess their readiness for strategic change. This is a NASBA approved class. The instructional delivery method is “group-live.” You will receive 14 CPE credits in the Business Management and Organization field of study. In accordance with the standards of the National Registry of CPE Sponsors, CPE Credits have been granted based on a 50- minute hour. The program level is Advanced. There are not any prerequisites for this course.

This five day lab covers a variety of skills including: safety, PPE inspection, grounding, rigging, pole top rescue, aluminum and copper ties, and minimum approach distances. Participants are given a field performance evaluation and a comprehensive written exam. The student must be a qualified climber and have completed the Pre-Apprentice Assessment Workshop.

This week-long series of classes is designed to provide line crew foremen with knowledge and skills outside the scope of fundamental linework. This will allow them to be more effective leaders and supervisors as well as help them understand their role and responsibilities of their job within the utility. The three-track series will cover topics for the new line-foreman to the experienced line-foreman. Subject areas include leadership, safety, technical and management skills. Individuals attending the Academy will receive a certificate for each class completed as well as an overall certificate for the week. Track 3 addresses interpersonal and communication skills, line staking and accident investigation and emergency communication. The online DISC profile completed for Track II will be used during this class.

The purpose of this training is to insure the safe and responsible operation of a Digger Derrick truck. With this training the intended outcome is for all those that are using these devices acquire the knowledge and skills to operate the equipment safely and productively.

This is the final class in the overall completion of the Advanced Lineworker Certificate Training. This 3 day class discusses pad mounted transformers and switching cabinets, and “live front” and “dead front” for future operations on units. Switching units will also be covered in this section in order to ensure continuity in service that is received when converting. The student must have completed Advanced Lineworker Certificate Training Phase 4 to enroll. Upon completion of an entire program an Overall Completion certificate will given to you for your hard work.

This training will focus on de-escalating high stress situations where the outcome will be beneficial for the operations and safety of the Utility workers. This will focus on body language, looking for signs of aggression, how to speak to someone without escalating an already tense situation into a violent encounter. We will also talk about the benefits of having a working relationship with local law enforcement agencies to help out in certain conditions.

This 3 day class teaches three-phase connections and troubleshooting during emergencies. Phasers are the key to transformer bank construction, troubleshooting and emergency transformer bank problem-solving. Provides needed hands-on problem solving training through the study and analysis of miniature transformers. The student must have completed Advanced Lineworker Certificate Training Phase 2 to enroll.

Recent events-related tragedies have exposed the vulnerabilities of large and small meetings and special events and demonstrated the alarming speed at which disturbances morph into chaos and panic. This session provides the skills to evaluate risks, identify potential threats, and develop an effective emergency response plan.

This comprehensive exam is the final step in completing the TVPPA Lineman Apprenticeship Program (Legacy, Millennial, and Revised Editions). It includes written and field skills elements exam. In order to pass you must satisfactorily complete all critical elements and objectives

This five day lab covers a variety of skills including: safety, aerial lift inspection, arc flash hazards, PPE inspections, bucket truck rescue, systems operations, three phase transformer theory, and insulation/isolation techniques. Participants are given a field performance evaluation and comprehensive written exam. The student must have completed Operations Lab 2 to enroll.

This five day lab covers a variety of skills including: safety, hotline tools, protective devices, regulators, capacitors and single line drawing. When trouble shooting it is important to understand the needed protective devises and how they work together. This module also discusses trouble shooting techniques, substation, breakers, fuses, regulators, capacitors, instrumentation and metering. Participants are given a field performance evaluation and comprehensive written exam. The student must have completed Underground Lab 4 to enroll.

The purpose of this training is to insure the safe and responsible operation of a Digger Derrick truck. With this training the intended outcome is for all those that are using these devices acquire the knowledge and skills to operate the equipment safely and productively.

When dealing in the purchasing realm, interpersonal skills and relationships are key to a diverse business strategy. In this class we will focus on how to use different personality traits to gain better strategies of communication within and outside our companies. With learning different traits and communication, we have a better understanding of how to control negotiations and contracts. Knowing that these two go hand-in-hand, we will learn new tactics, how to handle old tricks and what the law references in both of these scenarios. Participants will also learn supplier selection criteria and method development for obtaining qualified, dependable and competitive companies to do business with.

The 30-Hour OSHA Outreach Training Program for General Industry is divided into two sessions. Part 2 covers the following topics. Permit-Required Confined Spaces, Control of Hazardous Energy/Lockout-Tagout, Machine Guarding, Welding, Cutting, and Brazing, Bloodborne Pathogens, Recordkeeping, Occupational Noise Exposure, Vehicle-Mounted Elevating and Rotating Aerial Devices.

This 3 day class teaches three-phase connections and troubleshooting during emergencies. Phasers are the key to transformer bank construction, troubleshooting and emergency transformer bank problem-solving. Provides needed hands-on problem solving training through the study and analysis of miniature transformers. The student must have completed Advanced Lineworker Certificate Training Phase 2 to enroll.

This course is the third of five core curriculum classes needed in order to receive a CPSv certification. This 2 day course includes three modules: Getting Employee Commitment provides training on how to establish specific and measurable objectives which will gain employee acceptance; Giving Orders & Instructions shows trainees, step-by-step, how to issue orders and instructions effectively; and Delegating Effectively explores the when, whom and what of delegating and how to use delegation as a motivational tool. Students are required to have completed Communicating Effectively with Utility Customers and Fundamental Supervisory Skills to enroll.

The purpose of this training is to insure the safe and responsible operation of a Digger Derrick truck. With this training the intended outcome is for all those that are using these devices acquire the knowledge and skills to operate the equipment safely and productively.

This comprehensive exam is the final step in completing the TVPPA Lineman Apprenticeship Program (Legacy, Millennial, and Revised Editions). It includes written and field skills elements exam. In order to pass you must satisfactorily complete all critical elements and objectives

This 5 day class addresses the principles and methods for analyzing distribution circuits operating under sinusoidal steady state conditions. While an understanding of time differentiation is helpful it is shown that, in steady state, the circuit equations to be solved are algebraic; although the algebra is that of complex numbers. Complex numbers and their use as phaser`s representing sinusoidal time signals is thoroughly explained. The terminal characteristics of resistors, inductors, capacitors and independent sources are explained in the phaser domain. Electric power in ac circuits is far more interesting than in dc circuits where power is simply constant depending on voltage and current level. For ac circuits power concepts include real power, reactive power, complex power, apparent power, power factor angle, and power factor. All of the concepts are defined and demonstrated. The course includes basic principles of circuit analysis including mesh current and node voltage methods. Additional topics include The venin and Norton`s theorems for circuit simplification, power factor correction, per unit notation and calculations, single phase and three phase systems, wye-delta conversions, voltage drop calculations, and short circuit calculations under balanced conditions. Approximately two thirds of the course time is spent on theoretical concepts and one third on solving illustrative problems. This course will allow distribution engineers from all backgrounds to pursue the more advanced topics in the remaining courses.

This five-day workshop begins with the layout of an electric utility system, then covers major system equipment and the operational levels of a modern electric utility. It also introduces substation drawings, switching, safety procedures, and troubleshooting. Upon completion of this course, students should be able to: • Describe the major customer classes served by an electric utility and explain their relative use of electrical energy. • Identify TVA’s generation mix and explain how generation resources and energy sources have changed over time. • Discuss the major operational levels of an electric power system, including generation, transmission, sub-transmission, distribution, control, and protection. • Recognize common pole types, conductor types, and construction considerations used in overhead and underground utility systems.

The All Member Meeting will be held in Franklin, Tenn., on February 4, 2027. Registration opens in January 2027. 

TVPPA’s annual Legal Conference brings together attorneys, general managers and CEOs along with utility board members and other key staff from around the Tennessee Valley for two days of in-depth learning and networking opportunities.

Conference sessions provide general managers and CEOs insights into the legal perspectives related to business operations. Attorneys receive updates on issues of critical interest to TVPPA’s membership, and LPC board members learn about potential legal ramifications associated with the decisions they make for their organizations. 

Registration opens in November 2026. 

To serve commercial and industrial customers effectively, utility account executives must first have a solid grasp of how the utility industry works. Without this foundation, it’s difficult to build trust, anticipate customer needs, or provide meaningful solutions. This workshop equips account executives with the baseline knowledge of the utility industry they need to succeed. Participants will explore the three core pillars that drive utility operations, gaining practical insights they can immediately apply to strengthen relationships and deliver greater value to their largest accounts Learning Objectives 1. Gain an appreciation of basic electrical theory and how electricity flows and provides power to customers. 2. Understand how the utility infrastructure is deployed to move electricity to customers. 3. Learn the basics of a utility bill and gain an understanding on how to read and interpret a utility bill.

A successful key accounts program begins with a strong foundation—and the first 90 days are critical. This course provides a three-step blueprint to help account executives design a customer focused program that meets the needs of commercial and industrial customers while strengthening the utility’s reputation and value. Participants will learn how to establish the essential building blocks that position their program for long-term success and measurable impact. Learning Objectives 1. Learn the three key questions that must be answered clearly to build a strong foundation. 2. Discover the three keys to help craft the list of key accounts. 3. Understand the four levels of key account support and how to choose the best option for a utility.

The first 90 days are pivotal when launching—or relaunching—a key accounts program. This course provides a clear roadmap for moving from planning to execution, ensuring the program starts strong and gains early momentum. Participants will learn how to effectively prepare customers for the launch, engage them with confidence during rollout, and implement the critical follow-up process that sets the tone for long-term success. Learning Objectives 1. Understand the two primary elements necessary to prep for an effective launch. 2. Understand the five elements needed during the launch. 3. Learn the three keys to proper follow-up plan after the launch.

Sustaining a high-performing key accounts program can be difficult for utility professionals who juggle competing responsibilities. This course introduces the Key90 Operating System, a simple yet powerful framework that enables account executives to manage their programs in focused 90- day cycles. Designed for even the busiest professionals, the system provides a clean, repeatable process that ensures consistent program mastery, elevated customer service, and balance across all duties. Learning Objectives 1. Learn the four principles to maintain a strong program. 2. Discover the four ways to enhance a program so that it remains strong and relevant. 3. Learn the primary way to stay connected with key accounts. 4. Discover a tool to properly leverage the Key90 Method.

This one-day, high-impact event is designed for utility employees who need a solid foundation in how the industry operates, the role of TVA, and the issues shaping our future. From customer service and accounting to vegetation management, HR, IT, engineering, purchasing, and beyond—if you're new to a local power company or TVA—or have new hires in your organization—this workshop will provide the knowledge and connections needed to thrive.

Attendees gain valuable take-home resources, including our Electric Utility Primer, materials from expert-led sessions, and, perhaps most importantly, a network of peers from across the Valley.

Location and registration details coming soon. 

The Utility Purchasing & Materials Management Conference is TVPPA’s annual gathering for electric utility professionals who keep the supply chain moving. From procurement and inventory to warehousing and materials distribution, this event brings together the people who ensure electric systems across the Tennessee Valley — and beyond — have what they need, when they need it.

If you're involved in any part of utility supply chain management, this conference is designed for you. Come connect with peers, explore practical solutions, and stay ahead of industry changes. Registration opens in January 2027.

The TVPPA Annual Conference is the Tennessee Valley’s premier gathering of public power leaders, bringing together general managers, utility executives, policymakers, and industry partners from across the region—and across the country. Held each spring, this high-impact event offers a dynamic mix of expert speakers, timely panel discussions, and networking opportunities designed to address the most pressing issues facing public power today. Registration opens in February 2027. 

TVPPA's Engineering, Operations & Technology Conference brings together utility engineers, operations professionals, and technical leaders for three days of high-impact learning and connection. Designed to support those who keep our communities powered, this dynamic event features a full schedule of general sessions, breakout discussions, preconference tours, hands-on workshops, and lightning-round conversations — all tailored to the evolving needs of public power professionals.

Our expansive trade show, showcasing solutions and innovations from more than 100 industry vendors, is a highlight of this conference. Attendees can also explore vendor-led solution centers for in-depth, real-world applications and insights.

Our EOT conference gives licensed engineers the opportunity to earn Professional Development Hours (PDHs) . Participants who have recently completed TVPPA’s Certified Power Technology, Power Distribution Engineer, or Distribution System Operator certificate programs will be recognized during the event. 

Whether you're advancing your skills, exploring new technologies, or strengthening your network, this conference offers the tools and connections you need to lead with confidence in a rapidly evolving utility landscape. Registration opens in May 2027. 

TVPPA’s Utility Safety & Security Conference is the must-attend event for utility professionals dedicated to safeguarding people, assets, and infrastructure across the Tennessee Valley and beyond. This annual conference brings together those responsible for employee safety, training, securing physical assets, and even cybersecurity to explore the strategies and tools that keep local power companies resilient and responsive in today’s evolving risk environment.

Spanning all aspects of utility safety and security, the event features engaging speakers, expert panels, and real-world insights that address field crew protection, critical infrastructure defense, incident response, digital threat mitigation, and more. From linemen and right-of-way crews to substations and servers, the topics are tailored to support those on the front lines of safety guarding against threats, both modern and commonplace.

Registration opens in July 2027. 

TVPPA’s Human Resource Management Conference is the annual destination for electric utility professionals responsible for HR functions and workforce strategy. Whether you're an HR veteran or wear multiple hats at your utility, this event offers valuable insight into the most pressing and practical aspects of human resource management.

With a focus on timely, real-world topics, the conference features seasoned presenters with deep experience in human resources, compliance, and employment law. Attendees will gain actionable tools and up-to-date guidance on enhancing workforce development, navigating evolving employment challenges, and protecting their organizations from risk.

Beyond the sessions, participants enjoy a welcoming, collaborative environment, rich with opportunities to share resources, ask tough questions, and build meaningful peer connections. If you're looking for trusted knowledge and a strong HR support network, this is the place to be. Registration opens in July 2027.

TVPPA’s Accounting & Finance Conference is the premier annual event for utility accounting and finance professionals across the Tennessee Valley. Designed for those who manage the essential financial functions that keep local power companies running smoothly, this conference brings together accounting and finance professionals from across the Tennessee Valley for two days of insight, connection, and collaboration.

Attendees will explore best practices, new regulations, emerging tools, and real-world solutions to the financial challenges facing today’s utilities. Through informative sessions, expert-led discussions, and peer networking, the conference offers practical takeaways that support accuracy, compliance, and strategic financial planning.

Whether you're new to utility finance or a seasoned professional, this event is your opportunity to stay sharp, stay informed, and stay connected. Registration opens in August 2027.

TVPPA’s Customer Experience (CX) Conference brings together electric utility professionals in customer service, communications, marketing, and public relations to dive into customer satisfaction strategies, contact center innovations, and communications best practices through sessions led by industry experts and peer presenters. From brand storytelling to outage response, from customer engagement to digital platforms, the content is practical, timely, and designed to deliver results.

This is the perfect event for those who love to connect and collaborate. You’ll enjoy rich discussions, interactive sessions, and valuable networking with professionals who understand the challenges and opportunities of serving utility customers in today’s fast-changing environment.

 Registration opens in August 2027.