The Future Is Now

The 2019 HEAT Show kicked off Sunday, September 15 with the launch of the Next Gen Leaders Program, a series of education sessions structured around the needs of the industry’s future business and association leaders.

The Next Gen Leaders Program built from an educational networking format established by CEMA’s Next Gen Leadership Council. A number of council members participated in the Next Gen Leaders launch and offered constructive feedback during the event’s Young Leaders Planning Session. There, Next Gen Leaders Program attendees introduced themselves to one another and spoke candidly about what they’d like to see from the program as it continues. Suggestions included specifically focused educational offerings and mentor-apprentice networking opportunities as well as additional input on legislative and regulatory activities.

“Connecticut has proven this program works,” said session moderator Danny Silverman. “I think it’s something that will work on a broader level as well. Now that CEMA has offered to hand over the blueprint, the challenge falls on other state associations to start their own Next Gen groups.”

Sunday’s schedule also included an engaging industry discussion on “Time-Saving Technology Tools” as well as a networking reception, both hosted by Women in Energy. Like the Young Leaders Planning Session, these informal gatherings allowed for an interactive and inclusive atmosphere where attendees could openly share their professional experiences and discuss plans for the future.  

Women in Energy also held a successful clothing drive during the HEAT Show. The group collected donations of new and gently used professional women’s attire for Dress for Success Providence, an organization that aims to empower female professionals and equip them for success in their careers.

“We are thrilled by the number of apparel donations we’ve received on behalf of Dress for Success Providence,” said Judy Garber, Executive Director of Women in Energy. “Thanks to the generous contributions of our community, even more women will be empowered in the workplace.”

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