Electric Ops Roundtables

The MEA Electric Steering Committee reintroduced the roundtable in 2025 after having been on hiatus for several years. They identified a gap and sought to address challenges of supervisors with less than three years of experience. The committee is continuing to serve this group with specialty roundtables focused on individuals transitioning from peer roles to leadership positions.

Check back for information on the 2027 event, later this year.

Past Virtual Roundtables:

Held January 2026: From Buddy to Boss was a virtual roundtable led by utility leaders who have personally made the transition from peer to supervisor—some more recently and others with more time in their leadership roles. The discussion focused on the real-world challenges of stepping into leadership, including navigating changed relationships, managing former peers, building trust in union environments, handling difficult conversations, and leading through change. Panelists shared candid experiences, lessons learned, and practical advice, creating an open, peer-driven conversation designed to support new and emerging leaders as they navigate this critical career transition.

Held January 2025: This virtual roundtable on New Supervisor Challenges & Leadership Development focused on the practical challenges utility professionals face when stepping into supervisory roles. The peer-driven discussion explored topics such as transitioning from peer to leader, managing resistance to new technology and procedures, resolving workplace conflict, and leading a multigenerational workforce. Participants shared real-world experiences and practical strategies for building trust, encouraging buy-in, and supporting teams through clear communication, consistency, and hands-on training.