2026 Electrical Expo- Seminar Lineup

Speaker: Keith Cooper – McClure Engineering Associates (Retired)
Overview: Deep dive into NEC Article 250—grounding & bonding fundamentals, common misconceptions, and practical applications.
Topics include: grounding electrodes & GECs, separately derived systems, multiple buildings, pools, GFCI/EGFP, healthcare, and 2026 NEC changes to Article 250.
Audience: Contractors, plant maintenance, electricians, design engineers, inspectors.

PDH: 2 · City Code: 2

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Seminar #2 | 8:00–9:30 a.m.

Data Centers—Positive Economic & Social Impacts & the Electrical Industry

Speakers: James O’Mara (Ameren Missouri) & Cheryl R. Welge (Ameren Illinois)
Learn: Local investment & jobs, grid implications, sustainability, and what to expect 2026–2028.
PDH: 1.5

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Seminar #3  | 8:00–9:00 a.m. ·

Designing with Innovation – AIA Session

Speaker: Dave Onofrio, Architectural Sales – Central Region, Legrand

Focus: Integrated product selection, electrical integration, technology‑driven design, flexibility, and workflow impact.

PDH: 1

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Seminar #4  | 9:30–10:30 a.m.

NFPA 70 & UL 2196 – Installation & Application of Fire‑Resistive Cable Systems

Speaker: Tim Clancy, Technical Sales Manager, Prysmian

Key Topics: Fire‑resistive terms, UL 2196 evolution & current requirements, NFPA/FHIT understanding, AHJ expectations.

Audience: ECs/low voltage, fire service, A/E firms, inspectors/AHJs, compliance pros, distributors.

PDH: 1

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Seminar #5 | 10:00-11:30 a.m.

Ameren Missouri Service Manual

Speakers: Wendy Wu, Adam McAllister, Labbeb Quaisi

Covers: Utility vs end‑user responsibilities, concept‑to‑energization process, communication & documentation, customer switchgear & primary metering.

Audience: ECs, new contractors, electricians, PMs, engineers/designers.

PDH: 1.5

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Seminar #6 | 10:00–11:30 a.m.

Mastering Surge Protection: Types, Codes, and Best Practices

Speaker: Chris Martin, DEHN

Topics: SPD types, surge sources, mitigation, NEC requirements, listings, and solution selection.

Segments: Manufacturing, Commercial, Healthcare, Data Centers/IT, Industrial, Utilities & Energy.

PDH: 1.5

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Seminar #7 | 11:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.

The EV Gold Rush: Who Wins, Who Waits, and Who Gets Left Behind

Speaker: Mark MacDonald, President – Electric Avenue

Topics: Market reality, ROI, competitive advantage, reliability & service, risks of waiting.

PDH: 1

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Seminar #8  | 12:00–1:30 p.m.

Large‑Scale Solar Fields & Distribution Operations

Speaker: Christopher Caunter, P.E., Ameren

Learn: Utility‑scale solar integration with distribution systems, reliability, technologies, planning insights.

PDH: 1.5

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Seminar #9 | 12:00–1:00 p.m.

Industrial Performance Technologies: Driving Efficiency & Sustainability

Speaker: Sam Unerstall, Ameren Missouri

Focus: Efficiency, throughput, CO₂ reductions, tech evaluations (UV/IR/induction/heat pumps), incentives & BizSavers®.

PDH: 1

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Seminar #10 | 12:30–1:30 p.m.

Contractor of the Future / The Contractor Shift
Speaker: TJ O’Connor, Farmington Consulting Group

Why Attend: Learn evolving contractor expectations, distributor/manufacturer differentiation, and strategic growth insights.

PDH: 1

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Seminar #11 | 2:00–3:00 p.m.

How to Achieve COMPLETE NFPA 70E Compliance + 2027 Updates

Speaker: Dave Ritter, President, Ritter Safety & Facility Support

Topics: Anticipated 2027 updates, full‑program compliance (ESP, LOTO, audits), NFPA 70B maintenance, risk reduction strategies.

PDH: 1

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Seminar #12 | 2:00–3:00 p.m. a

How Combined Thermal & Lighting Conditions Shape Cognition & Physiology

Presenter: Nina Sharp, Ph.D., LEED GA, WELL AP (ASU)

Assistant Professor, The Design School,  Herberger Institute for Design and the Arts

Senior Global Futures Scientist, Julie Ann Wrigley Global Futures Laboratory

Founder and Director, DeSmart Lab

Arizona State University, Tempe

Focus: Thermal/lighting interactions, age/gender pathways, design implications for healthy, high‑performance environments.

PDH: 1

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Seminar #13 | 3:30–5:00 p.m.

Complex Project Partnering: Building Effective Teams for Success
Speaker: Matt Hunt (Facilitator/Strategist/Consultant)

Takeaways: Mutual respect, strength mapping, shared goals, constructive conflict handling, celebrating wins.

PDH: 1.5

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(NEC) Changes Conference – Thursday, August 27

IAEI Analysis of Changes, 2026 Code Conference

• 7:20 a.m. – IAEI Eastern Missouri Chapter Meeting
• 7:30–11:30 a.m. – Session 1
• 2:00–6:00 p.m. – Session 2
• Credits: PDH: 8 & City of St. Louis Code: 8
• Attendance Requirement: Must attend both sessions and have your badge scanned at each session to receive a certificate.
• Materials: Attendees receive the updated “Analysis of Changes, 2026 NEC” (book covers ~400 changes).
• Book Pickup: Photo ID required at the Inspectors Table (pickup available the morning of the conference).

Registration & Fees

• $350 – before August 1, 2026
• $410 – after August 1, 2026
  Includes: Lunch + “Analysis of Changes, 2026 NEC” book.

Audience: Contractors, electricians, engineers, and professionals maintaining St. Louis licensing compliance.

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Thursday Seminars - (Aug 27) Expo opens at 9:00 a.m.

Seminar #14 |8:00–10:00 a.m.

Harnessing the Sun: A Guide to PV Integration in Building Design
Speakers: Michael Brinkman & David Broering, PE, LEED AP (CannonDesign)

Topics: EUI, PV performance drivers, design integration, planning for constrained/taller buildings.

PDH: 2

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Seminar #15 | 8:00–9:00 a.m.

Impactful AI: Turning Innovation Into Practical Advantage
Presenter: George Hayward

Focus: Practical AI use‑cases in electrical/utility/infrastructure, tool evaluation, aligning AI to business outcomes.

PDH: 1

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Seminar #16 | 9:30–10:30 a.m.

Mastering Project Delivery Methods: Choosing the Right Approach for Success

Speaker: Kristyn Newbern | McCarthy Building Companies

Content: This program provides a comprehensive overview of the most common project delivery methods, including their structures, advantages, and limitations. Participants will learn when each method is best deployed, how to align delivery strategies with project goals, and practical considerations for successful implementation. Whether you’re managing design-build, design-bid-build, or alternative approaches, this session will equip you with the knowledge to select and apply the right method for optimal results.

PDH: 1

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Seminar #17 | 10:30-12:00 p.m.

Digital Transformation: Moving Your Business from Paper to Platform

Speaker: Sheila Burkett, CEO & Co‑Founder, Spry Digital

Learn:

• Integrated Project Management: How to connect field data, office operations, and billing into one cohesive workflow—from field entry to final invoice.
• Automating Compliance & Risk Mitigation: Use digital tools to track documentation, ensure consistency, and reduce liability.
• Creating a Single Source of Truth: Streamline resource allocation with centralized data that eliminates redundancy and improves visibility across teams.

Who Should Attend

• Business owners and executives
• Operational and project managers
• Technology decision-makers
• Organizations seeking process efficiencies

PDH: 1.5

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Seminar #18 | 11:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.

Electrical Contracting in the Age of AI: Innovation & Productivity

Speaker: Josh Bone, Executive Director, ELECTRI International

Join us for an insightful session on how artificial intelligence is reshaping the electrical contracting industry. This program will feature two dynamic components:

• Keynote: Electrical Contracting: Thriving in the Age of AI – Explore how technology and innovation are transforming workflows, decision-making, and project outcomes.
• Workshop: Leveraging AI to Save Time & Boost Productivity – Gain practical strategies and tools to integrate AI into your operations for efficiency and competitive advantage.This event brings together industry leaders to share actionable insights and prepare contractors for the future of electrical construction.Who Should Attend
  • Electrical contractors and business owners
  • Project managers and estimators
  • Technology and innovation leaders in construction
  • Electrical engineers and designers
  • Industry professionals seeking to leverage AI for productivity

PDH: 1

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Seminar #19 | 12:30–1:30 p.m.

Submetering to Meet Energy Code, Cost Recovery & Sustainability Goals

Speaker: Joe Blanchard, TBWC Technology

Topics: Division 26 spec updates, lifecycle performance, ASHRAE 90.1/IECC 2021/LEED compliance.

PDH: 1

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🎓 PDH

These seminars are designed to qualify for Professional Development Hours (PDH) for Professional Engineers. Check individual program details for credit specifics and any limits.