THE PREMIER ELECTRICAL POWER SAFETY AND RELIABILITY TRAINING EVENT OF THE YEAR!
“The comradery, the mutual respect, and the collective mindset of the Power Professionals at PowerTest is what sets it apart.”
Harnessing Power Potential, the theme of this year’s PowerTest Conference, inspired the opening message. The 1,100 PowerTest25 attendees were acknowledged for their dedication to advancing themselves and their companies; for serving as committed stewards in designing, managing, maintaining, and harnessing power’s potential; and for improving power reliability and safety.
Ron Widup, PowerTest Chairman, challenged the audience to think:
“If you could learn one thing — by mistake or intentionally — that could change the path of your career or your company, or could benefit you and your family, what would you do differently to find it? What would you do to Harness Power’s Potential?”
“All of us should be on a quest to learn that one thing that will make us safer, make us more successful, and make us better at what we do. That is why we are here.”
The NETA-hosted PowerTest conference is recognized across the electrical power industry as the premier electrical power safety and reliability conference. It is the largest annual gathering of power system maintenance experts and professionals. NETA Accredited Companies, electrical service and engineering firms, utilities, manufacturers, and commercial facility owners send their teams each year to train and grow their knowledge.
EDUCATION AND TRAINING
PowerTest25 delivered five full days of knowledge-sharing and learning from Tuesday, March 11 through March 15, 2025, hosted at the Rosen Shingle Creek Resort in Orlando, Florida. Electrical power system experts and professionals attended nearly 40 unique training sessions, advancing their expertise, engaging with new technologies, and previewing the latest products and services utilized in the power sector. In addition, attendees caught up with friends, strengthened existing relationships, and made new connections during the popular social events throughout the conference.
POWERTEST25 HIGHLIGHTS
Each year, PowerTest is made SPECTACULAR by the NETA network of companies that volunteer their expert speakers, sponsor events, exhibit state-of-the-art products and services, and collectively contribute their creativity and knowledge to make the event educational, fun, and engaging.
MONDAY
Megger Best Practices Seminar
Leading into PowerTest25, Megger held its annual Best Practices Seminar, designed to bring field testing technicians up to speed on new testing techniques and technology as well as offer the opportunity to engage in technical discussions with expert engineers.
Hoot and Howl
Attendees gathered for an evening of revelry, singing, and dancing at the Howl at the Moon dueling piano bar. The great food was only outdone by the entertainment and the group sing-alongs. A few brave and talented comrades stepped up for some karaoke to show off their vocal abilities and Blues Brothers dance moves. THANK YOU to RMS Energy Co. for hosting such a fun event!
TUESDAY
Opening Session Welcomes Electrical Power Professionals
PowerTest25 opened to one of the largest groups of power professionals in NETA’s history, and the Welcome Keynote Speaker was the perfect kickoff to the next five days of high-powered learning. Alex Chausovsky, from Bundy Group, was applauded for his presentation: From Analysis to Action: Driving Business Value Through Insights into Today’s Economy. He shared insights on Global and U.S. macroeconomics and leading economic indicators, while relating the analytics directly to the power industry. He wrapped up his engaging report by delivering actionable takeaways for today’s business drivers.
Educational Sessions
PowerTest is one of the industry’s most important training events, offering power professionals the ability to earn up to 4.8 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) or 48 Continuing Technical Development credits (CTDs).
Tuesday’s 27 engaging 45-minute training sessions covered six critical areas, offering opportunities to learn about the latest developments in the electrical testing industry from industry leaders. Expert presenters came from all sectors of industry. Specific sessions focused on navigating today’s challenges and identifying tomorrow’s industry trends. Session topics included:
- Transformers
- Relays
- Electrical Safety
- Equipment & Reliability
- Emerging Technology
- Sales and Management
POWERTEST25 EXHIBITOR AWARDS
Most Visited
Best New Addition
Most Innovative
Best In Show – It’s a Tie!
2025 NETA Member and Alliance Luncheon
The annual NETA Members and Alliance Partners luncheon brought together over 300 guests. NETA recognized the many Alliance Partners and Corporate Alliance Partners who support the Association, uphold the ANSI/NETA Standards, and serve as volunteers who make the work of the Association possible. NETA also awarded special recognition to several outstanding individuals, acknowledging their contributions to NETA and the industry. Be sure to read the NETA Annual Award articles starting on page 130.
Member and Alliance Luncheon Keynote Speaker Ken Peterson
Ken Peterson, representing LUMA Energy, delivered a keynote presentation, From Devastation to Innovation: Remaking Puerto Rico’s Electrical Grid, and offered insights on the future power grid and strategies to meet tomorrow’s power demand. The luncheon and keynote speaker were graciously sponsored by Power Engineering Services (PES), a Quanta Services Company.
New Product Forum
Every year, the New Product Forum is one of the most well-attended PowerTest events. This year, 21 companies delivered lightning-fast presentations on their latest innovations and product updates. Presenters bring their A-game, as each only receives 2 to 3 minutes to engage the audience and highlight their product’s most important benefits. It’s a rewarding and enlightening experience that builds excitement and previews what’s to come at the PowerTest Trade Show.
HOSPITALITY SUITE NIGHT
And what a grand night it was! This year’s Hospitality Suite Night was hosted by nine of our most creative PowerTest sponsors. With the Florida sun drawing a curtain on a day of knowledge sharing and comradery, the atmosphere was electric as PowerTest guests stepped through the many entertaining hospitality suite stages. Thank you to all our Hospitality Suite Sponsors!
HOSPITALITY SUITE WINNERS
Most Creative Suite — A-Rent’s Technical Team theme challenged guests to put their skills to the test with a virtual shooting range. On hand to coach and encourage participants was former U.S. Army Special Forces sniper and mixed martial artist Tim Kennedy.
Most Entertaining Suite — Saber Power captured the spirit of New Orleans with a salute to Mardi Gras, beads included. Guests grooved to the lively jazz and festive beats, tasted traditional Cajun cuisine, and sipped on specialty craft cocktails.
Most Appetizing Suite — IPS PowerServe created an Island Oasis. PowerTest revelers stepped from a day of learning into Margaritaville. One could feel the island breeze as they exchanged jests with talking parrots, tasted delicious foods, sipped exotic drinks, and engaged in a game of tiki toss!
Most Technical Suite — Megger’s Data Driven Insights Arcade was an electrifying experience. Guests challenged each other in a playful contest, demonstrating their gaming prowess on neon-laced high-tech arcade games. Exclusive arcade prizes and gift drawings brought everyone in for the action.
Best Late-Night Suite — Group CBS delivered the cool vibe of Miami Nights. Guests gathered to be entertained by the many attractions offered in the glamour of this neon-lit night. Cigar rolling, casino games, delicious Cuban food, and specialty cocktails were favored by all.
Most Musical Suite — RESA Power Service added to the Rhythm of the Night theme, hosting a smooth jazz lounge. Guests sported stylish fedoras, grooved to the music, tried their luck at casino games, and were captivated by a perfect blend of entertainment and elegance.
Most Hospitable Suite — Shermco saluted our industry’s progress and uncovered the story of Shermco and its founding leaders. Visitors stepped into a world of surprises and engaging activities where the past, present, and future came together in unexpected ways.
Best in Show Suite — EPS Power Systems guests experienced the charm of the roaring ‘20s at their exclusive Speakeasy! PowerTest guests were lured in by the Gatsby-style prohibition-era charm, handcrafted cocktails, and classic nightclub entertainment.
PowerMixer Bar — Protec hosted the PowerMixer Bar, providing suite guests with a central mingling space as they traversed the many entertaining suite-scapes. They offered the perfect mix of refreshing drinks, great company, and stunning views.
WEDNESDAY
Panel Sessions
Wednesday morning’s technical content included panel discussions on Electrical Safety, Transformers, Circuit Breakers, and Relays. Attendees had the option to participate in two sessions, but many wished they could have attended all four. Discussion, debate, and storytelling kept participants engaged and able to take away valuable information and insights they could use in their day-to-day responsibilities.
PowerTest25 Trade Show
The PowerTest25 Trade Show Opening Ceremony was a flash-mob surprise event, thanks to the talents of the Orlando Impact Drum and Bugle Corps. It was a rousing escalation to the biggest PowerTest Trade show in the history of NETA, with nearly 100 companies committed to serving today’s and tomorrow’s power needs. Attendees helped POWERUP the exposition floor and engaged with top-tier electrical power service and product providers. Record attendance, booth participation, interactive activities, games, new product demonstrations, and sensational exhibits made for a high-energy atmosphere.
POWERTEST25 PRESENTATION WINNERS
Each year, attendees vote on the best presentations and speakers. This year’s top picks included:
Best Business Management Presentation
Creating Impactful Onboarding Experiences for NETA Technicians
Stephanie McLaughlin, Hood Patterson & Dewar, Inc.
Best Transformer Presentation
Top Tips and Tricks for Transformer Testing
Brandon Dupuis, OMICRON electronics Corp.
Best Relay Presentation
Transformer Ground Differential Element Behavior with CT Error and Analysis of a Misoperation Event
Joshua Hughes, Qualus Services, LLC
Best of Emerging Technology Presentation
Advancements in Stationary Battery Testing for Renewable Energy Applications
Joseph Aguirre, Spark Testing North America, and Swapnil Marathe, Megger
Best of Electrical Safety Presentation
Is Your Electrical Safety Intentional?
Thomas Wire, RESA Power
Best Equipment & Reliability Presentation
Life Extension of Existing 15 kV GE Magnablast Switchgear Using Vacuum Circuit Breakers
Albert Livshitz & Seth Kravetz — Qualus
Best Overall Presentation
What Does Capacitance Measurement Tell Us About the Transformer?
Michael Anderson, Doble Engineering
PowerTalk Stage
The PowerTalk Stage panel sessions were future-focused learning events. Trade Show attendees joined in the discussions on Renewable Energy: Challenges and Opportunities and AI: Improving Operational Efficiency and Workforce Safety.
PowerBash
The highly anticipated PowerBash Reception, courtesy of host A-Rent, was a glorious night! An annual event where the NETA nation and esteemed guests gather to be entertained, reconnect, and acknowledge the contributions of our PowerTest presenters, exhibitors, and hospitality suite hosts is always a can’t-miss event. It always features good company, excellent food and drinks, and fun entertainment. The event drew over 500 guests and provided just the right atmosphere for merriment, relaxed conversation, and creating deeper connections.
THURSDAY—SATURDAY
High-Powered Seminars
Thursday and Friday’s in-depth training seminars offered 16 unique technical sessions to choose from, covering important topics ranging from understanding IEC and NFPA Standards, partial discharge, and apparatus testing to workforce management, electrical safety best practices, and technician exam development.
Saturday’s all-day seminar, hosted by Doble Engineering, dove deep into The Essentials of Protection & Line Current Differential Testing.
These final three days of PowerTest training are especially designed for those who are intimately involved in the management and maintenance of electrical power infrastructures. Over 300 of PowerTest’s unique breed of power professionals participated in these sessions and came together Thursday evening during the first-ever Technician Recognition Reception. Everyone in attendance was celebrated for their collective commitment to growing their expertise, bettering their companies, and advancing the electrical power industry. Additionally, over 200 NETA Certified technicians were recognized for their levels of achievement and encouraged to continue to level up.
POWERTEST25 — THAT’S A WRAP!
PowerTest25’s power professionals are critical to the growth of our electrical power industry. While there are many events to build comradery and connect, the central purpose of the PowerTest conference is to deliver a concentrated training experience with opportunities to earn a significant number of required CEUs and CTDs.
PowerTest25 was another record-breaking year. Attendees came from across the country and around the globe. As always, there were representatives from nearly all of the NETA Accredited Companies, engineering design firms, power producers, distributors, contractors, manufacturers, and commercial entities, along with hundreds of organizations that provide products and services in support of the electrical power industry — all part of the NETA network of companies.
Thank You to Our PowerTest Speakers
PowerTest speakers are pillars of the industry and are critical to the advancement of industry knowledge. Each year, PowerTest speakers receive high praise from attendees, and NETA is grateful to them for their contributions.
NETA Salutes Sponsorship Partners
PowerTest sponsors work with NETA to lend their creativity to boost excitement and ensure that the conference experience is always an event to remember.
POWERTEST26 CONFERENCE
Gaylord Opryland Resort
Nashville, TN
Save the date! Monday, March 2 – Friday, March 6, 2026. Mark your calendars for next year’s largest annual gathering of electrical power and electrical testing professionals and explore five-plus days of content tailored to the needs of the electrical power industry at PowerTest26. Learn more at www.PowerTest.org.
Speaker presentations are currently being accepted. Abstracts are due by the extended deadline of
June 1, 2025.
- Sponsorship opportunities are available now.
- Attendee registration opens August 1, 2025.