As the legal landscape of the utility industry continues to change in the face of decarbonization, regulatory policy, budget pressures, and risk assessment, this biannual forum provides a unique and collaborative space for utility General Counsels to share new insights and opportunities through networking and roundtable discussions. Content for this program is member-driven and topics are chosen directly by participants in advance of each meeting to ensure the relevancy and timeliness of the agenda.
General Details
- Program Chair(s)
- Greg Hesler, VP, General Counsel, Corporate Secretary and Chief Ethics/Compliance Officer, Avista Corp.
- Program Location
- Avista Corp.
- 1411 E. Mission Ave. Spokane, WA 99252
- Who Should Attend
Participation is restricted to senior leaders responsible for management of legal functions at WEI energy member companies. The small size of this program provides a unique environment for collaborative thinking, open discourse and long-term relationship building. CLE and CPD credits are supported by this forum, depending on your state or province. Legal assistants should confirm with the WEI program manager for specific requirements
- Registration Options
Member: $499 USD
Registration includes digital materials and access to all event sessions and meals listed on the agenda.
- General Cancellation Policy
- Due to contractual obligations, cancellations received 15 business days prior to the program will receive a full refund. Cancellations received 6 to 14 business days prior to the event will receive a refund, less a $100 administrative fee. No shows and last minute cancellations, 5 business days prior to the event or less, will be responsible for the full registration fee. Substitutions from your organization for the same event are always welcome.
- Participation Policy
- Western Energy Institute programs and events are open to energy companies (including gas production and electric generation, gas and electric transmission and gas and electric distribution utilities). Select programs and events are open to energy industry product and service suppliers. Programs and events are closed to all media representatives and to the general public. Recording is not permitted for any portion of the event.
- For more information contact Amy Nye, Program Manager at (971) 303-2119.
Agenda
Thursday, September 8, 2022
6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Networking Dinner
Join us for a WEI hosted networking dinner in downtown Spokane, within walking distance from The Davenport Grand, Autograph Collection:
Mizuna Restaurant and Wine Bar
214 N. Howard Street
Spokane, WA 99201
Friday, September 9, 2022
8:30 AM - 9:00 AM
Registration + Networking Breakfast
Arrive early to register and network with peers over a hot breakfast.
9:00 AM - 10:30 AM
Welcome + Introductions
The Program Chair will welcome the group and kickoff roundtable introductions. Come prepared to share a recent success story and the biggest challenges you and your team are facing right now.
10:30 AM - 10:45 AM
Networking Break
10:45 AM - 11:45 AM
Industry Topic Roundtable: State of the Economy
This time is designated for a focused roundtable discussion on how the current state of the economy, rising inflation, and supply chain challenges are impacting the utility sector. Come prepared to share your experience and perspective on this topic.
11:45 AM - 12:30 PM
Networking Lunch
12:30 PM - 1:30 PM
Industry Topic Roundtable: Hybrid Work
This time is designated for a focused roundtable discussion on how the hybrid work environment is shaping up now that many utilities have returned to the office, at least in some capacity. How has the hybrid work changed your company culture, employee engagement, and overall morale? Come prepared to share your experience and perspective on this topic.
1:30 PM - 2:00 PM
Open Roundtable Discussion
We'll close out the day with an open roundtable discussion on top-of-mind issues. Topics will be guided based on the current challenges shared during introductions.
2:00 PM - 2:15 PM
Wrap Up + Future Planning
The meeting will conclude with a brief wrap-up as we set our sights on the Spring 2023 meeting.
Hotel + Travel
- The Davenport Grand Autograph Collection
- 333 West Spokane Falls Blvd
- Spokane, WA 99201
- Phone: (509) 458-3330
Click here to make your reservation now.
- Reservation Instructions
Please note, WEI does not have a group rate or discount arranged for The Davenport Grand, Autograph Collection. However, this hotel is recommended for meeting guests that need accommodations for the evening of September 8, 2022.
Onsite Safety + Health Info
Effective August 18, 2022, proof of vaccination status or results of a negative COVID-19 test will not be required for admittance into most WEI-hosted programs.
WEI continues to monitor all federal level CDC, Canadian government and public health agency recommendations, as well as local ordinances, as a policy baseline for in-person programs. We encourage all attendees to review the current guidelines related to isolation and precautions prior to traveling to a WEI event, as well as guidance for traveling to and from Canada, which may differ from guidance for traveling to or from the United States.
Some WEI-hosted programs may require proof of vaccination status, if essential for participation, in which case WEI will communicate this requirement in advance of the program start date.
Please refer to WEI’s Safety + Health Code of Conduct for other important considerations.