The Benefits of Presenting at an AEE Conference: A Personal Perspective 

With over 30 years in energy management, HVAC, and building automation, I’ve had the privilege of presenting at several Association of Energy Engineers (AEE) World conferences. These experiences have been incredibly rewarding; boosting my career and personal growth, elevating my recognition and connections within the energy community, and leading to unexpected opportunities. Presenting at an AEE conference is a fantastic opportunity for any energy professional, and the complimentary registration is a great perk! Here are my top five reasons to present: 

 1. Professional Growth and Recognition 

Presenting at an AEE conference lets you showcase your expertise to a knowledgeable and diverse audience. This visibility can elevate your professional profile; opening doors to new collaborations, career advancements, and invitations to impactful projects. Personally, presenting has been crucial in advancing my career and establishing my reputation as a leader in the energy sector. Recognition from peers has been immensely rewarding, boosting my credibility in the industry. Questions from the audience have also helped me continuously refine and improve my presentations. 

 2. Exceptional Networking Opportunities 

AEE conferences bring together energy professionals from around the world and across sectors including academia, private industry, power providers, and government. This dynamic environment fosters valuable connections that can lead to collaborations, mentorships, and long-lasting relationships. Some of my most significant professional interactions started as conversations at these events, developing into meaningful and long-lasting friendships. The network I’ve built through AEE has been integral to my professional and personal growth, and the welcoming AEE staff makes every event even more worthwhile. 

3. Staying Updated with Industry Trends

 The energy industry evolves quickly, with new technologies and policies reshaping our work. Presenting at AEE conferences allows you to share your insights while staying engaged with a community dedicated to lifelong learning. Interacting with fellow presenters and participating in discussions ensures you remain informed about the latest trends. For example, at the last conference in Nashville, I learned about the emerging ISO 50111 decarbonization standard, which I later shared with my team. 

4. Building Confidence and Personal Satisfaction

Speaking in front of peers builds confidence, as it acknowledges the dedication behind your projects and provides valuable affirmation. One of the most gratifying aspects of presenting for me is giving back to the industry by sharing practical energy-saving strategies. As I often say, five things have had the most profound impact on my life: my faith, my marriage, my children, my service in the USAF, and my role as an energy manager. 

5. Contributing to Industry Advancement

Presenting at an AEE conference is not only a personal achievement but also a way to contribute to the growth of the energy industry. Sharing your experiences and solutions can inspire others, spark new ideas, and foster a culture of continuous improvement. Knowing that your insights could motivate new initiatives or approaches is deeply rewarding. I’ve been overwhelmed with joy at the positive feedback I’ve received from both presenters and the audience. 

Conclusion

Presenting at an AEE conference is not just a professional milestone—it’s an opportunity for growth, recognition, connection, and a way to contribute positively to the energy industry. I believe these experiences have been instrumental to some of my awards and recognitions. I encourage all energy professionals to submit their abstracts for upcoming AEE events, such as the Europe, East, and World conferences. The call for papers is open until the New Year—take this chance to share your expertise, advance your career, and help shape the future of energy management. Becoming an energy manager has profoundly impacted my life, and presenting at conferences allows me to give back to a career that has offered me so much. I urge energy professionals to contribute by sharing their diverse perspectives—you won’t regret presenting at an AEE conference! 

Ready to Speak at an Upcoming Conference?

Are you passionate about energy efficiency and eager to share your insights with a global audience? Consider speaking at one of our upcoming conferences in 2025. These events offer a unique platform to connect with industry leaders, showcase your expertise, and contribute to the future of energy. Whether you’re an experienced speaker or new to the stage, your voice can inspire and drive innovation. Join us and be part of the conversation that shapes the energy landscape!

AEE Europe
Paris, FR | April 23-24, 2025:
Submit to Speak >>
Deadline to Submit: January 6, 2025

AEE East
Cleveland, OH, USA | June 25-26, 2025:
Submit to Speak >>
Deadline to Submit: February 24, 2025

AEE World
Atlanta, GA, USA | September 17-19, 2025:
Submit to Speak >>
Deadline to Submit: March 3, 2025

This article was written by Kelley Whalen, EEP and released in November 2024.