I want to thank the Operations Chairs ahead of time in their efforts to field Operations Challenge Teams before the Annual Conference. If we can accomplish this, it will help us plan and train the team members better than ever.

For those of you that aren't aware of the fact, CSWEA sponsors 8 people, two (4 member teams), to compete at WEFTEC. Each team includes members from the 3 states represented by CSWEA. We need your help in getting the competitors lined-up. Plan on helping us get 2 team members plus an alternate.

The team member selection is spelled-out in the CSWEA SOP's. The first choice is the state's operations award winner, or the facility's designee. Others to be considered are the WWOA Operations Challenge winning team (WI only) or past team members. A key thing to remember is that the competitors will compete in maintenance, operations, lab, and safety events so people with broad experience are very helpful.

If their utility is unwilling to fund a person at WEFTEC, CSWEA and the State Sections provide financial support for the competitors. It may not cover all expenses, but it's a help! MN and WI operators organizations will also contribute toward expenses.

A thought to share with people is the value gained from the competition. This program helps employees meet and know others from different states. They learn teamwork and leadership, because everyone has to pull together in an event like this. This program also gets employees an opportunity to see one of the best trade shows in the industry too!

Please start getting your States representatives together today!!!

I'll be bugging everyone for now, but I've nearly completed my 3 year term. I strongly suspect that LaMont Albers will be serving as the next PWO rep.

If you have any questions, please feel free to email me or call at 815.871.8070

THANKS!!!!

Dean