Powering Opportunity: A Utility's Role—Getting Ready for a Data Center
Data centers aren't just changing technology—they're changing the demands placed on utilities and the communities they serve. As more of these projects make their way across the country, understanding what's ahead has never been more important. Join us for an inside look at what it takes to prepare for and support a major data center development, from economic development and infrastructure planning to utility coordination and collaboration. Gain valuable insights into the planning, partnerships and infrastructure considerations that come with these complex projects. Whether your community is next or not far behind, you'll leave with practical ideas to help you prepare for what's ahead.

The New Track: Mapping What's Below—Live AI Demonstration Using Real Kentucky Damage Locations

What if the future of underground infrastructure starts long before the locate marks hit the ground? As technology continues to evolve, artificial intelligence is opening the door to new ways of understanding the subsurface—but can it really help us make better decisions? Join Itzik Malka, co-founder of 4M Analytics, for a live demonstration showcasing how AI, satellite imagery, historical utility records and advanced data analysis are being used to map underground infrastructure. Using real Kentucky damage locations, Itzik will demonstrate how this technology works, what it can (and can't) do and how it may help reduce uncertainty before excavation begins. This session isn't about asking you to trust AI—it's about giving you the opportunity to see it in action, ask the hard questions and evaluate its capabilities for yourself. How accurate is it? Where does it excel? Where are its limitations? Could technology like this help us make smarter decisions while preserving the critical role of human judgment? 

Whether you're an AI skeptic, an early adopter or somewhere in between, this closing session will challenge the way you think about underground mapping and offer a firsthand look at one of the industry's most talked-about emerging technologies.

Steady at the Reins: Communicating Under Pressure

Field professionals often find themselves in difficult situations—whether it's an upset homeowner, a frustrated customer or someone who simply doesn't understand why work is taking place on their property. Knowing how to respond can make all the difference. This interactive session will explore practical de-escalation techniques, including managing emotions, active listening, effective body language and building mutual respect and connection. Walk away with real-world communication strategies that can help reduce conflict, improve safety and create more positive interactions in the field.

CEU Opportunities: Water & Wastewater
Included with registration—even more value for your attendance!


Setting the Pace: Inside the Damage Prevention Institute
The damage prevention industry continues to evolve, and so do the tools, resources and education that support it. Join the Common Ground Alliance for an inside look at the Damage Prevention Institute and its vision for advancing the industry through education, collaboration, research and professional development. Learn how this exciting initiative is reducing damage rates and helping shape the future of damage prevention and discover opportunities to engage, grow and strengthen your organization and the industry as a whole. 


More Than the Finish Line: The Human Cost

In every race, the finish line matters—but in our industry, how we get there matters even more. Behind every incident is more than a statistic—it's a family, coworkers, friends and a community forever changed. In this powerful and deeply personal session, Erich Metzger shares how the loss of an employee in a tragic workplace accident reshaped his perspective on safety, leadership and the responsibility we all share. Through his story, you'll be challenged to look beyond policies and procedures and remember what truly drives damage prevention: making sure everyone goes home.

The Other Side of the Track: When Technology Outpaces Judgment
Artificial intelligence is reshaping our world—but not every advancement comes without consequences. As AI becomes more integrated into our daily lives, so do the risks associated with overreliance, manipulation and unintended harm. In this powerful and thought-provoking session, Lori Schott shares her family's deeply personal story while exploring the growing concerns surrounding social media algorithms, AI companion chatbots and documented cases where emerging technologies have contributed to dangerous and tragic outcomes.

Stay in the Saddle: Dog Encounter Survival
Every stop has the potential for an unexpected canine encounter, but the right knowledge can help prevent it from becoming an attack. Join Hector Hernandez and his K9 partner, Chankla, for an engaging and interactive session featuring live demonstrations of tested and proven bite prevention techniques designed specifically for field professionals. Learn how to read canine body language, recognize warning signs, avoid behaviors that can escalate an encounter and respond with confidence when faced with an unfamiliar or aggressive dog.

Trusted by police departments, the U.S. Postal Service, utility companies and field organizations across the country, Hector combines humor, real-world experience and practical demonstrations to provide skills you can put to use on your very next stop in the field.

Beginner & Advanced Locate Trainings
A hit last year—even bigger this year! Sign up when you register (limited spots available!) for no extra cost.

Panel Discussions on the HOTTEST 🔥 Excavation & Locating Topics
From fiber buildouts to legislation, our panelists are ready to get real and go deep into big industry topics. 



Exclusive networking opportunities
Just ask the folks who joined us last year—they're still talking about it!
Off-site event at the Kentucky Castle with transportation included
There's no excuse not to join in on the fun!

Signature "Night at the Races" event
Back by popular demand after a fantastic turnout last year.

 Live music
Of course there's live music... this is the Bluegrass State!

Door prizes & giveaways
Trust us—these are worth writing home about!
Swag from exhibitors and sponsors
Goodies galore from our industry partners. 

Food & beverages provided throughout the conference
We're covering BIG things, and we can't learn on empty stomach!

And much, much more!