SPARK Annual Meeting
Examine how utility leadership, communities, and emerging technologies, like AI intersect - and how to navigate the tension between progress and humanity across all utility departments
Where innovation meets humanity
SPARK explores how utilities can thrive in a world where communities, technologies, and leadership are more interconnected than ever. Leaders examine the balance of innovation and humanity across AI, analytics, IoT, workforce strategies, customer experience, and cultural transformation.
Why it matters
The utility industry stands at a pivotal moment. Hyper-connectivity is reshaping how we serve customers, engage employees, and operate infrastructure. SPARK brings together leaders who are navigating this transformation - sharing real challenges, proven strategies, and bold ideas for the future.
The experience
Designed through U2030's Learning Experience Design lens, SPARK features interactive sessions, rapid-fire panels, Ignite Talks, and gamified experiences. Every moment is designed to deliver actionable strategies, meaningful connections, and real-world stories from peers who understand your challenges.
Outcomes
Leave SPARK with fresh perspectives on leading through complexity, practical frameworks for AI and digital transformation, a strengthened network of peer leaders, and renewed energy to drive change in your organization.
Built for utility leaders shaping the future
Executive leaders
CEOs, COOs, CIOs driving enterprise strategy and transformation
Customer experience leaders
VPs and Directors shaping customer trust and engagement
Technology & innovation
Leaders integrating AI, analytics, and IoT into operations
People & culture
HR and change leaders building workforce resilience
Technology partners
Solution providers advancing utility transformation
Three days of transformative learning
Interactive sessions, rapid-fire panels, Ignite Talks, and gamified experiences designed for maximum impact.
Day 1: arrival & opening
Setting the stage for hyper-connected futures
Registration & welcome lunch
Check in, connect with fellow attendees, and prepare for the journey ahead.
Opening keynote: our hyper-connected futures
Setting the vision for how utilities can thrive when communities, technologies, and leadership are more interconnected than ever.
Interactive session: the AI imperative
Exploring how artificial intelligence is reshaping utility operations, customer service, and decision-making - and what leaders need to know now.
Ignite talks: bold ideas in 5 minutes
Fast-paced presentations from utility leaders sharing breakthrough innovations and lessons learned.
Welcome reception
Networking dinner and entertainment at Saint Kate's vibrant arts venue.
Day 2: deep dive
Exploring innovation, workforce, and customer futures
Breakfast & networking
Start your day with connections and conversations.
Sponsor keynote
Industry insights from our headline sponsor on the future of utility technology.
Breakout sessions track A & B
Choose from concurrent deep-dive sessions on customer experience transformation, workforce strategy, or digital operations.
Lunch & peer roundtables
Facilitated discussions with peers facing similar challenges.
Gamified experience: the connected utility
Team-based simulation exploring how to lead through disruption and build resilient, connected organizations.
Rapid-fire panels
Quick hits on IoT, analytics, cultural transformation, and more.
Women who SPARK awards dinner
Celebrating women who have made great achievements in utility company transformations.
Day 3: action & commitment
Translating insights into impact
Breakfast & reflection
Morning conversations on key takeaways.
Leadership lab: personal action planning
Facilitated workshop to translate conference insights into concrete actions for your organization.
Closing keynote: leading into the unknown
Inspiring close on leading with courage, humanity, and purpose in uncertain times.
Closing lunch & departures
Final connections and commitments as we close SPARK 2026.
Travel & accommodations
Everything you need to plan your trip to SPARK 2026 in Milwaukee.
Venue & hotel
Saint Kate - The Arts Hotel
139 East Kilbourn Avenue, Milwaukee, WI 53202
A vibrant arts hotel in the heart of downtown Milwaukee, offering modern comfort and creative inspiration.
Airport information
General Mitchell International Airport (MKE)
Direct flights available from most major U.S. cities. The airport offers convenient access to downtown Milwaukee.
Ground transportation
Rideshare services (Uber/Lyft) are readily available from the airport. The hotel is located in walkable downtown Milwaukee.
Attire & dress code
SPARK is a professional conference with a creative edge. We encourage business casual attire throughout the event.
Ready to SPARK your leadership?
Join utility leaders from across the industry for three days of innovation, connection, and transformation.