Feb 28

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Mar 01

Chief Information Officer (Feb 28-Mar 01)

CIOs navigate everyday challenges related to grid modernization, cybersecurity and data integrity. In addition to the natural leadership pressures of any executive position, CIOs also lead the charge for building visionary plans to embrace emerging technology, oversee policy development and direct the implementation of systems and processes for the control and exchange of information. As such, CIOs increasingly seek novel approaches to enhance efficiency, responsiveness, innovation and adaptability. This forum provides a unique opportunity for utility CIOs to come together in an exclusive peer environment to address these challenges.

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General Details

  • Program Chair(s)
  • Jim Downing, Chief Information Officer, NW Natural

    • Program Location
    • Hilton Portland Downtown
    • 921 SW 6th Ave, Portland, OR 97204
    • Who Should Attend
    • Participation in the Chief Information Officer executive forum is restricted to senior leaders responsible for management of their utility's technology and information systems. In most instances, the appropriate attendee serves as the Chief Information Officer or holds an equal position within their utility. The small size of this program provides a unique environment for collaborative thinking, open discourse and building long-term relationships.

  • Registration Options
  • Member: $499 USD

    Registration includes digital program materials and access to all event sessions and meals listed on the agenda. Guest tickets are available for $100 and allow for a personal guest (a spouse or partner who does not work in the energy industry) to accompany a registered attendee at the event. Guest registration includes all meals and receptions.

  • General Cancellation Policy
  • Due to contractual obligations, cancellations received 15 business days prior to the program will receive a full refund. Cancellations received 6 to 14 business days prior to the event will receive a refund, less a $100 administrative fee. No shows and last minute cancellations, 5 business days prior to the event or less, will be responsible for the full registration fee. Substitutions from your organization for the same event are always welcome.
  • Participation Policy
  • Western Energy Institute programs and events are open to energy companies (including gas production and electric generation, gas and electric transmission and gas and electric distribution utilities). Select programs and events are open to energy industry product and service suppliers. Programs and events are closed to all media representatives and to the general public. Recording is not permitted for any portion of the event.
  • For more information contact Marco Henkel, Program Manager at (971) 393-3250.

Agenda

Tuesday, February 28, 2023

4:30 PM - 6:30 PM

Networking Reception

Join us for a site visit to NW Natural's Headquarters in Downtown Portland, followed by a hosted networking reception. Walking distance from the event venue and hotel.

Location: NW Natural, 250 SW Taylor St, Portland, OR

Wednesday, March 1, 2023

7:00 AM - 8:00 AM

Networking Breakfast

8:00 AM - 9:15 AM

Welcome + Introductions

The Program Chair will welcome the group and kickoff roundtable introductions. Come prepared to share a recent success story and the biggest challenges you and your team are facing right now.

9:15 AM - 9:30 AM

Networking Break

9:30 AM - 10:30 AM

Industry Topic

This time is designated for a focused discussion on a particular topic of interest. Topics are member-driven and will be determined by polling attendees prior to the meeting.

10:30 AM - 10:45 AM

Networking Break

10:45 AM - 11:45 AM

Industry Topic

This time is designated for a focused discussion on a particular topic of interest. Topics are member-driven and will be determined by polling attendees prior to the meeting.

11:45 AM - 12:45 PM

Networking Lunch

12:45 PM - 1:45 PM

Open Roundtable Discussion

We'll close out the day with an open roundtable discussion on top-of-mind issues. Topics will be guided based on the current challenges shared during introductions.

1:45 PM - 2:00 PM

Wrap Up + Future Planning

The meeting will conclude with a brief wrap-up as we set our sights on the Fall 2023 meeting.

Hotel + Travel

  • Reservation Instructions
  • Please contact the hotel directly at (503) 226-1611 to reserve your room or click the link above. Identify yourself as being with Western Energy Institute (WEI) to receive a special rate of $175 USD/night. This rate is guaranteed until February 7, 2023 or until the WEI room block is full.

Meet The Speakers

Sara Grabowski

NW Natural

Jim Downing

NW Natural

VP, CIO

Jennifer Chiaratti

NW Natural

Senior Project Manager