Speaker: Bob Nighswonger, Utility Training Academy

Who Should Attend? Not only is this skills training workshop a great introductory session and a valuable career-building tool for the novice line locator, the workshop was designed to challenge and expand the knowledge base of even the most seasoned of pros of the art of underground line locating and marking.

Classroom Training and Field Instruction: This two-fold training workshop begins with a live classroom training session with comprehensive animated slide presentations, lively discussions, and a supporting workbook loaded with reference materials and classroom activities. The classroom session is followed by a Hands-On instruction performed outdoors where a variety of conventional and not so conventional equipment is placed in the hands of the workshop participants in efforts to build “equipment friendly” users of line detection equipment. You may bring your own locating device or one will be provided.

Speaker: Dan Bigman, Bigman Geophysical LLc

Using mobile GIS applications to build a geospatial database of assets in real time has powerful implications for reducing damages, improving the efficiency of utility locates, and streamlining decision-making. This workshop will cover the basics of mapping utilities with GPS and GIS through a practical application at the facility. First, the students will create a new project, create relevant feature classes such as gas, power, meters, manholes, etc. and assign appropriate feature types to each such as points, lines, and polygons. Next, the class will journey outside the classroom to collect actual data using a mobile GIS app. The students will build the database of assets at the facility while walking the grounds. They will also learn to document assets and locate marks. Finally, the class will reconvene inside the classroom to learn how to generate map outputs that can be used as deliverables for clients/managers, or which can be provided to locators prior to arriving on-site.

Topgolf Little Rock
5 Topgolf Way
Little Rock, AR 72210

$95 Registration
includes lunch and 3 hours of Unlimited Gameplay

Located in the Exhibit area, with networking, food and drinks for all.

Speaker: Scott Wozniak, Swoz Consulting

This session revolves around the importance of consistency and how best to utilize immediate feedback for continuous improvement.  Understanding the value of branding can create successful relationships for your customers, your coworkers and other stakeholders.