CEO’s Report: The importance of continuing education

Public power is built on collaboration, a willingness to learn from one another and helping each other succeed. No matter what your role is at the utility, there is always something new to learn.

Continuing education is one of the most important investments we can make in the future of public power. For Heartland and our customer communities, ongoing training and professional development ensure employees have the knowledge, skills and tools needed to adapt in a rapidly changing industry.

New technologies, changing regulations, cybersecurity concerns and workforce challenges continue to reshape our industry, and staying current helps ensure we are serving our communities to the best of our ability.

Fortunately, public power offers no shortage of opportunities to learn and grow. Organizations like the American Public Power Association as well as state-level municipal associations provide valuable training, conferences and networking opportunities throughout the year.

Strong organizations are built by people committed to learning, growing and improving. Education helps prepare our workforce for what comes next.

APPA

As Heartland Energy customers, you are already members of the American Public Power Association—tge the national organization representing and advocating for community-owned, not-for-profit electric utilities across the country.

APPA helps strengthen public power communities through training, industry expertise and opportunities to connect with peers.

Their training opportunities cover nearly every area of utility operations, from safety to utility accounting to leadership and workforce development. One of the advantages is that much of the training is available without ever leaving your office.

For those new to the electric utility world, APPA offers an Electric Utilities 101 course. There are also more advanced opportunities, including a three-part utility finance series covering financial planning, rate design, and cost of service principles.

Through the APPA eCademy, you can access virtual courses and on-demand training at your own pace and on your own schedule.

You can even find courses on specialized topics like converting overhead electric systems to underground.

No matter your role or experience level, there are opportunities designed to help you grow.

State associations

State associations also provide valuable educational opportunities and resources close to home.

The South Dakota Municipal League recently launched a monthly webinar series focused on timely issues affecting communities across the state, creating space for local leaders to share ideas, experiences and solutions.

Minnesota Municipal Utilities Association offers its Utilities U program designed to help utility personnel stay ahead of the curve in an ever-evolving industry. Their latest DUEL initiative combines technical training with leadership development and real-world case studies to prepare future utility leaders.

Likewise, the Iowa Association of Municipal Utilities is currently conducting a survey of members to ensure future trainings and events are tackling topics important to you.

The League of Nebraska Municipalities is hosting the Municipal Accounting and Finance Conference  coming up on June 17 in Lincoln.

Take the time

I know how busy you all are. Public service often requires wearing multiple hats and balancing countless responsibilities. It can be difficult to step away from day-to-day demands to make time for professional development.

But I encourage you to take a closer look at the resources available to you. Investing time in learning today can create efficiencies, generate new ideas and make your job easier tomorrow.

More importantly, continuing education strengthens your utility and helps ensure a prosperous future for the communities you serve.

We all benefit when we continue learning and growing. Strong utilities are built by people committed to improving themselves, sharing knowledge and preparing for what comes next.

Fortunately, there are plenty of opportunities to do just that.