Utility Leaders to Gather for Peer-Led Discussions on Customer Experience, Technology Modernization, and California’s Evolving Utility Landscape

PASADENA, Calif. — The Southern California Utility Technology & Solutions Group today announced its inaugural conference, taking place November 4–5, 2026, at The Athenaeum in Pasadena, California.

Designed specifically for utility professionals responsible for customer service, operations, technology, and business transformation, the event will bring together leaders from across Southern California for candid conversations focused on the realities of modern utility management.

“Some of the most valuable conversations in our industry happen between sessions, over coffee, or during a call to a peer,” said Jillian LaPorta, CEO of The Current Marketing Agency and conference organizer. “This event was built around those conversations, giving utility leaders the opportunity to openly discuss challenges, share lessons learned, and learn from one another.”

The conference agenda was developed by an advisory board of utility leaders from Pasadena Water & Power, Los Angeles Department of Water & Power, Burbank Water & Power, SoCal Gas, and Golden State Water Company, ensuring that every session addresses real-world challenges utilities face today.

Featured sessions include:

• Our Three Biggest Mistakes: Lessons Learned from Transformation Journeys — an interactive workshop exploring modernization successes and setbacks through the experiences of peer utilities.
• Stop Speaking Different Languages: Basic Translations on How to Get IT and Business on the Same Page — practical strategies for improving collaboration between business and technology teams.
• The California Rulebook: A Regulatory Survival Guide — a discussion on navigating California’s increasingly complex regulatory environment.
• Beyond the Moratorium: The Utility Affordability Conundrum — Redefining Access in a Post-COVID World — an examination of customer affordability, service access, and evolving utility responsibilities.

“What makes this agenda impactful is that every session tackles a challenge utility leaders are facing right now. These aren’t theoretical discussions. They’re conversations that can help attendees avoid costly mistakes, learn from their peers, and return to their organizations with ideas they can put into practice immediately,” said Jeremy Marquette, Pasadena Water & Power Assistant General Manager and advisory board member for the Southern California Utility Technology & Solutions Group.

In addition to educational sessions, attendees will participate in a Community Service Networking Event in support of a Pasadena-based nonprofit organization. Participants will assemble essential support kits for individuals and families in need, reinforcing the utility industry’s commitment to the communities it serves.

Registration is now open. Attendance is limited to utilities and event sponsors. Space is intentionally reduced to maintain a highly interactive environment.

About the Southern California Utility Technology & Solutions Group

The Southern California Utility Technology & Solutions Group was created to provide utility professionals with a forum for honest dialogue, practical learning, and meaningful peer connections. Focused on customer experience, technology modernization, operational excellence, and regulatory readiness, the group brings together utility leaders committed to improving service for the communities they serve.

About The Current

The Current Marketing Agency is a full-service marketing consultancy powering growth for the energy and utility sectors. We connect strategy, creativity, and technology to help utilities, advisory firms, and tech partners strengthen their brands, engage audiences, and accelerate adoption. Acting as an extension of in-house teams, The Current delivers integrated campaigns across brand development, digital marketing, PR, events, and analytics—ensuring every message flows with clarity and purpose.

For press inquiries or media partnerships, contact amanda@thecurrentmarketing.com