COVID-19 and the Birth of PowerTest TV

Scott Blizard, American Electrical Testing Company LLCPresident's Desk, Columns, Summer 2021 Columns

In this issue of NETA World, we focus on medium-voltage circuit breaker test methods and the analysis of the resulting test data from those methods. Be sure to check out “Power Factoring Medium-Voltage Breakers” by Rick Youngblood of Electrical Maintenance & Testing and “The Why of Medium-Voltage Circuit Breaker Testing” by Paul Grein of Group CBS Testing for a good read.

As of this writing, the COVID-19 pandemic still poses a significant health concern. Please be sure you follow company and customer policies to ensure the safety of all parties involved. These policies should include preventative measures to limit the spread of COVID-19 as guided by CDC recommendations within the US and the Public Health Agency of Canada. Be safe and err on the side of caution.

It was great to see the level of participation at NETA’s first-ever virtual PowerTest conference — PowerTest TV. The all-new virtual platform featured high-powered, on-demand content, the flexibility to participate from anywhere in the world, and the ability to earn 75-plus NETA CTD credits (7.5+ CEUs). PowerTest TV offered a more customizable conference experience than ever before and was a great success with over 600 attendees. On behalf of the NETA Board of Directors, I would like to thank our PowerTest TV sponsors, Corporate Alliance Partners, trade show vendors, NETA Accredited Companies, and most important, the hard-working and dedicated NETA staff who helped make PowerTest TV possible. Be sure to mark your calendars for next year’s PowerTest conference, which will take place in person on March 8–12, 2022. We look forward to reconnecting with you in Denver, Colorado.

This is my last message as President of the NETA Board of Directors. It has been a privilege and an honor to serve as your President for the last two years. Eric Beckman of National Field Services will take over in June, and I know he will be a great leader and ambassador for our Association. To assist NETA’s new President and get more involved within the industry, please consider volunteering. Join a committee, present a paper, or write an article. If you’re looking for ways to contribute, I’m sure Eric can steer you in the right direction.

Coach safe behavior…Living injury and disease free every day!

Scott A. Blizard, President
International Electrical Testing Association
Safety First…No One Gets Hurt!