Colorado Springs Utilities will kick off the Transmission & Distribution Maintenance Management Association's 34^th annual conference on Sept. 20 with a choice of three social activities intended to cement long-time friendships between members and their partners and to welcome newcomers into the TDMMA fold.

TDMMA focuses on providing networking opportunities without leaning on a national sponsor or trade shows for financing. It is at the core, utilities sharing practices with utilities.

Regional networking has greatly enhanced emergency-restoration efforts following natural disasters. “After the 2004 hurricanes, Manitoba Hydro called us to offer assistance,” said George Patrick, with Santee Cooper and a long-time contributor to TDMMA. “There is camaraderie between these dedicated managers who are determined and committed to keeping this conference focused on developing better procedures and employees, and improving safety and service.”

More than 100 delegates from more than 30 Canadian, U.S. and overseas utilities are planning to attend the four-day event that includes morning panels, afternoon workshops, technical tours, social events and a fun-filled spouse program. The 2009 panels include safety, major events, new technology, major challenges and workforce management.

TDMMA got its start in 1976, when Trent Meacham of the Salt River Project in Phoenix organized a roundtable discussion with maintenance and construction managers of nearby utilities. TDMMA is now an international event providing an informal exchange forum for electric utilities whose core business is T&D. Come join us. TDMMA is a welcoming and engaging group that tells it like it is.

The conference will be held Sept 20 to 25. For more information, visit www.tdmm.com.