Our Utility Fundamentals + Insights courses adopt a fresh and interactive educational platform providing attendees with a deep understanding of how the electric and gas utility industries work, and an improved awareness of their own roles within their organizations. Participants also acquire a broad comprehension of critical issues affecting the energy industry, as well as the interplay between utilities and stakeholders. The courses include:
ELECTRIC UTILITIES FUNDAMENTALS + INSIGHTS (EUFI)
Module 1: Fundamentals of Electricity
Module 2: Generation Choices
Module 3: Transmission + Electricity Markets
Module 4: Distributed Energy Resources
Module 5: Electric Utility Customers
Module 6: Emerging Issues
GAS UTILITIES FUNDAMENTALS + INSIGHTS (GUFI)
Module 1: Fundamentals of Gas
Module 2: Extraction + Gas Transmission
Module 3: Distribution Operations
Module 4: Regulation, Codes, and Safety
Module 5: Customers + Usage
Module 6: Emerging Issues
Bob Kendall has spent his entire career of over 45 years in the electric utility industry serving in senior management positions at Southern California Edison (SCE) for 30 years; EVP then President of Sunlaw Energy, a Los Angeles based generation owner and development company for 2 years; as a Managing Director with Navigant Consulting for 10 years; with M. J. Beck Consulting for 6 years; and is in his 4th year as an instructor with WEI.
Bob Rowe, former CEO of NorthWestern Energy, helped triple the company's value during his tenure, fostering strong corporate governance and community engagement. With extensive industry involvement and a background in regulatory policy, he continues to shape the energy sector as a venture partner with The Westly Group. Bob has also served on boards and committees for the American Gas Association, Edison Electric Institute, Western Energy Institute, and Yellowstone Forever.
Booga Gilbertson is a seasoned executive in the energy industry. As the former COO of Puget Sound Energy, she led initiatives to modernize infrastructure, promote clean energy solutions, and foster a culture of safety. With extensive board experience and a background in labor relations and vocational instruction, Booga now focuses on energy strategy, policy, and technology. She serves as an independent director for a green hydrogen company and is currently pursuing a Master of Science in Data Science.
During her tenure at Puget Sound Energy, Catherine Koch held key roles such as director of planning and director of compliance, overseeing multimillion-dollar budgets and leading teams to improve energy transmission and distribution. Catherine played a pivotal role in establishing compliance programs and led initiatives in grid modernization and reliability. Catherine founded Reimagine Energy Consulting in 2022, offering advisory services to energy industry clients focused on customer needs and environmental impact.
Deb Affonsa is currently an executive advisor at EDMs, and has an extensive experience in customer service and corporate strategy. She previously held key positions at Public Service Electric and Gas (PSEG) and Pacific Gas & Electric (PG&E). At PSEG, she served as chief customer officer, overseeing all customer operations and service. At PG&E, she held roles including vice president of customer service and vice president of corporate strategy, where she led the development and implementation of forward-looking plans.
Eric Christenson, with 20 years of industry experience, directs program curriculum and engagement at WEI, overseeing the delivery of essential industry education to thousands of energy professionals annually. Formerly with PGE, Eric was an enterprise risk management program manager and collaborated across various sectors, holding dual Bachelor's degrees from the University of Oregon. Active in community service, he currently serves on Washington County's citizen advisory Executive Committee.
Jim is a seasoned senior executive with a diverse background spanning utilities, forest products, and industrial sectors and retired as BC Hydro’s Director of Customer Care in late 2014. He subsequently collaborated with Accenture as a subject matter expert, supporting utilities globally including in Japan, Australia, China, Hong Kong, and the Philippines. Currently serving as the board vice chair of the Motor Vehicle Sales Authority in British Columbia, Jim is known for his exceptional relationship-building skills and is highly regarded within his extensive network.
Larry boasts an extensive 37-year tenure in the gas distribution industry, beginning as a laborer and retiring as manager, Central region, at Questar Gas. He actively contributes to industry education through WEI's Business Acumen program, serving as a student, mentor, and facilitator. Larry's engagement extends to the American Gas Association, where he chaired the Distribution Construction & Maintenance Committee. Larry imparts his industry knowledge to 7th-grade students at Spring Canyon Middle School, promoting energy careers through College and Career Awareness courses.
Member Hosted UFI Courses
Several WEI members host UFI courses internally for their employees. Select your company for contact information.
Interested in hosting a course through your company?
