The Finepoint Circuit Breaker Test and Maintenance Training Conference supports the new generation of substation maintenance personnel by recognizing the need for focused training.

Each year, participants are asked for feedback in regard to the need for additional training topics. From first-timers to those with many years of attendance, the participants submit their handwritten opinions for the organizer to consider. All of the comments and suggestions are carefully reviewed and the feedback is most often implemented in the next conference. It is the comments received each year that keeps Bill Myers, conference founder, interested in continuing to offer training to electric utility personnel.

“Our conference is continually growing and improving every year because we listen to what the substation maintenance personnel are requesting. We certainly appreciate our participant’s input and understand their desire for more practical training through our conference,” Myers said.

Each year, the participants send a strong message to the conference organizer - a plea to continue this training for the utility industry.

Following are comments from the 2007 conference survey:

“This year was my 8^th year participating at this conference. Each year I take valuable info back to my company, thanks!” -- Jeff Robison of Chugach Electric Association, Anchorage, Alaska

“Outstanding conference. Utility people talking about utility problems.” -- Scott Storrar of Xcel Energy, Eau Claire, Wisconsin

“I appreciate the great hospitality through the entire week. It is the most organized training conference in which I have attended throughout my 18 years in the business. Keep up the good work.” -- Kevin Gunderson of Altalink, Alberto, Canada

“A great collection of vendors, good presentations and great location!” -- Matt Kessel of the Lower Colorado River Authority, Austin, Texas

“Bill, you continue to produce an incredible conference, thanks and kudos to your entire staff!” -- Tony Picagli of United Illuminating, Shelton, Connecticut

“A very good conference. I really like the fact that 80-90% in attendance are employees who work on the equipment.” -- Rod Macintyre of ATCO Electric Ltd, Grand Prairie, Alberto, Canada

“A very good mix of technical and maintenance issues with good participation by both the vendors and various utilities.” -- Wayne Pennell of Hydro One, Pickering, Ontario, Canada

“It’s been very good. The speakers were great, good information, well organized. Keep up the great work!” -- Jim Mitchell of the Western Area Power Administration, Miles City, Montana