April 2026 Safety and Training Rewind

NRECA SMDP 754 | Advanced Application of Emotional Intelligence: Strategic Leadership Development

April 1

Presented by Michael Dorsey

This advanced course takes a deep dive into the EQ-i 2.0 framework, focusing on how supervisors and managers can apply emotional intelligence to navigate complex leadership challenges and drive organizational success. Building on foundational knowledge, this session equips participants with the tools to address real-world scenarios, such as resolving conflicts, leading through change, and developing high-potential leaders.

More photos: AIE 26 - NRECA SMDP 754 Advanced Application of Emotional Intelligence: Strategic Leadership Development - AIECphoto

1st Year Distribution School | Spring 2026

April 6-10

Presented by Thad France

Installation of line insulators and other connectors, hardware identification, changing out insulators and cross arms, using live line tools and general procedures including safety were a few of the facets of this hands-on training.

More photos: AIE 26 - 1st Year Distribution School | Spring - AIECphoto

2026 Spring IT/Engineering Meeting

April 9-10

Coordinated by Dan Gerard

Updates from federal and state partners, peer presentations and facilitated discussion were on the agenda for the spring meeting. Presenters included Tim Huber, Glen Williams, Blake Carlson and John Teefey.

More photos: AIE 26 - Spring IT & Engineering Meeting - AIECphoto

2nd Year Distribution School | Spring 2026

April 13-17

Presented by Thad France

Personal protective apparel, installation of crossarms, insulators, lightning arrestors and transformers, pole changes on various structures, three-phase hot sticking and grounding techniques were the topics of study.

More photos: 2nd_Year_Distribution_School | Spring 2026 - AIECphoto

Advanced Distribution School | Spring 2026

April 20-24

Presented by Thad France

Course objectives included demonstrating the use of line fasteners and insulating equipment, describing pole quality and safety considerations while climbing, troubleshooting lightning arrestors, participating in three-phase line pole and crossarm changes, discussion of accidents and near misses and demonstrating transmission sticking skills.

More photos: Advanced_Distribution_School | Spring 2026 - AIECphoto

Lineman Leadership Class | Introduction to Staking for Linemen

April 21-23

Presented by Jason Settle, Hi-Line Engineering

Multiple topics were covered during the two-day class, including RUS construction standards, staking practices and procedures, an introduction to NESC, conductors, wood poles, pole top assemblies, guys and anchors, a classroom line design problem and field use of line design tools.

Photos: Lineman_Leadership_Class | Introduction_to_Staking_for_Linemen - AIECphoto

Rubber Gloving School | Spring 2026

April 27-May 1

Presented by Thad France

Understanding rubber gloving theory, grounding and insulating vehicles, proper techniques for changing out and repairing electrical equipment and lines, operating aerial life devices on utility vehicles and bucket truck rescue were the areas of focus for this course.

More photos: AIE_2026_Spring-Rubber-Gloving-School - AIECphoto

2026 Spring Member Services/Marketing Meeting

April 29-30

Coordinated by Brooke Gross

The meeting agenda included sessions on youth engagement through driver education, grant writing, high energy and bill complaints, and creative self-leadership. Presenters included Summar Smith, Kristin Olson, Julie Lowe and Bobby Hulme-Lippert.

More photos: AIE_2026-Spring MS/M - AIECphoto