4–7 May 2026 • Chicago, IL
To support industry newcomers, IEEE PES T&D Plain Talk courses are designed to help non-engineers and early-career professionals gain a clear understanding of power systems. Whether you’re in business operations, communications, government, or support roles, Plain Talk will help you speak the language of the industry with greater confidence and clarity.
Plain Talk demystifies the technical side of the electric utility industry through clear, engaging instruction delivered by experienced professionals.
A foundational understanding of how electricity is generated, transmitted, and distributed
Context for key industry trends such as renewables, grid resilience, and electrification
The confidence to engage with engineers, utilities, and project teams more effectively
Non-engineering professionals working in or with utilities or energy organizations
Managers, executives, or staff in business, finance, marketing, or HR
Government and regulatory professionals
Anyone new to the power and energy sector
The 2026 Plain Talk courses will be held in-person during the 2026 IEEE PES PES T&D Conference & Exposition in Chicago, IL.
We recommend planning to attend 1–3 days based on your interests and availability. Course titles, instructors, and full descriptions will be provided soon.
Course registration will open alongside general attendee registration in November 2025. You can add Plain Talk courses as stand-alone options or bundle them with a T&D conference pass.
Join our mailing list to be notified when course details and registration opens.
Yes. Participants earn 8 CEUs per full-day course.
CEUs are delivered via email within 2–3 weeks of course completion. IEEE maintains a permanent record of all CEUs.
Student pricing is not available for Plain Talk courses.
Full-day instruction from subject matter experts
Printed course materials
Certificate of completion
Networking opportunities with fellow participants
For more information about Plain Talk courses or CEU certificates, contact:
LaToya Gourdine
l.gourdine@ieee.org
Additional information will be provided to this page as details become available.
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