CEBA Connect: Spring Summit is just around the corner! This is your chance to convene with the clean energy community in Minneapolis, MN, May 6-8. There is still time to join the fun. To learn more about why you should sign up and what to expect I sat down with Nikki Hodgson, Senior Manager, Event Logistics at CEBA.

First off, what is this event? 

CEBA Connect: Spring Summit is the premier convening for energy and sustainability professionals dedicated to advancing a carbon emissions-free energy future. This CEBA member exclusive benefit brings together our energy customer, energy provider, service provider, and NGO members. 

Traditional conferences often focus exclusively on education; our event is designed to be different. CEBA Connect: Spring Summit was created for collaboration, relationship building, and community. 

Checkout this highlight reel from last year’s event!

Why Should Members Attend?

We are expecting more than 700 attendees, folks who are deep in energy work day in and day out. So, this is the place to connect with folks who are facing the same challenges you are and collaborate on solutions. If you are working in energy — whether you’re just starting out or you’re a veteran — this is the space to build relationships and community you need to advance your organization’s mission and to advance the clean energy transition.

Customize summit to meet your needs. With over 31 sessions across the main stage, conversations, and deep dives, we have dedicated programing for everyone from entry-level to experienced energy professionals. 

Is networking your priority? Plan to check out our brand-new networking lounge; you can book a table through the EventGo app. And don’t miss our receptions. Wednesday night, CEBA member and principal sponsor CTC Global will host all attendees at the beautiful Orchestra Hall. 

Who from my company should attend?

We often are asked what level of energy experience attendees should have. The answer is all levels. Our programing is designed to meet both experienced and beginner folks where they are. If you are new to your role or new to your organization, I would absolutely encourage you to attend the fundamental sessions. More experienced professionals will value our industry deep dives and connection opportunities.

Ticket allocation is determined by your membership tier. For more information on your company’s allocation check out our FAQ. That said, one of the comments that we have gotten in the past, which I love, is that we have too many great sessions and it’s too hard to pick which session to go to. So, I recommend having more than one person on your team attend. While not always feasible, multiple folks can take advantage of all the great content.

What are you excited about for this year’s event?

For me it is always the people. I get super excited to see everybody and to leverage the networking spaces and the receptions to chat with members. 

New this year, we will have a dedicated networking space, where you can sign up for tables for networking conversations. Simply book a table in the Duluth Room (level three) using EventsGo, the event app (Download it from the AppStore and GooglePlay). Just schedule a meeting, tap location, and pick your table!

I am also incredibly thrilled to be in Minneapolis! We always choose great cities, but this year’s partner and host organizations have been very enthusiastic. So, I am looking forward to being there and exploring their city. Plus, there are some great restaurants. 

I always advise folks to take a look at the agenda and consider what sessions they want to attend in advance. Pro tip: Use the EventsGo app to create a personalized schedule and to schedule meetings. The session reminders are great to make sure you don’t miss a thing.  create a personalized schedule and to schedule meetings. The session reminders are great to make sure you don’t miss a thing.  

The second thing I advise folks to do is take advantage of our attendee directory and our networking opportunities. The unique value of this event is the ability to connect with folks in this space. Once you register, you can access the attendee directory on the website and the app to set meetings up with other attendees. 

Lastly, any highlights from previous summits you can share? 

I love all our summits, but there was something special about Seattle. We were able to partner with local CEBA member organizations to create unique experiences. For example, working with Starbucks we had a coffee tasting experience while they explained their clean energy goals. Additionally, REI hosted a fun run and a climbing wall experience. It was a highlight for me. 

Big thanks to Nikki for sharing her expert advice! Make sure to say hi to her in Minneapolis! What are you most looking forward to at this year’s event? Drop us a note, we’d love to hear from you!