Note:
This class is currently full. If you would like to be added to a wait list, please email registration@nwppa.org.
Who Should Attend:
Operations foremen, either as part of a temporary rotation or as a function of a full-time role.
Overview:
The Foreman Leadership Certificate Program is a highly interactive program designed to support the development of skills needed to lead operations crews in the electric utility industry. Activities, both inside and outside, reinforce learning and provide opportunities to practice and develop skills. The activities will also keep the participants engaged and energized during the long program days. The program consists of two, two-and-a-half-day sessions; the sessions can be taken two to 12 months apart but should be taken in order.
Who am I as a leader? Day one focuses on the success factors of a foreman. What do the best foremen do, or have, that makes them the best leaders in their field? Small group discussions about these factors will prepare the group for areas of focus for the next few days. Scenarios, developed from real utility situations, will be introduced as case studies. We will use the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator to identify preferential style and way of working, and the styles of others who may prefer something completely different. Day two addresses safety culture, values, and going from crew to foreman. How does this job change the relationship with your crew (who may also be your fishing buddies)? Group discussion, activities, and use of scenarios help with learning. We’ll also identify the most critical values a foreman must have to rely on others and be relied upon. What is required to safely send your crew home at the end of each shift? An external team development activity brings all the lessons to life. Day three recaps the lessons, utilizes the perspective from an external speaker, and brings a final skill-building activity to fruition. The teams will complete various challenges to build strength in adapting to changes, and paying attention to leadership decisions, even in the midst of competition.
“People learn nothing when they’re asleep, and very little when they’re bored," John Cleese.
Instructor:
Elaine Dixon, EMDLearning
Schedule:
Registration will begin at 8 a.m. Pacific Time on day one. The class will run from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. the first two days, and from 8:30 a.m. to noon the third day.
Location:
Graduate by Hilton Eugene
66 E. 6th Ave.
Eugene, OR 97401
(541) 342-2000
Room rates: Single $159, double $159, triple $179, and quad $199
Please book your room as soon as possible but no later than February 6, 2026, to receive this special rate. Mention that you are coming in with the NWPPA group when booking your reservation.
Fees:
Utility Member Early Bird (ends 1/10/2026): $1,660
Utility Member Standard: $1,905
Associate Member Early Bird (ends 1/10/2026): $2,490
Associate Member Standard: $2,735
Non-Member Early Bird (ends 1/10/2026): $3,320
Non-Member Standard: $3,565
Canadian utility members, please contact registration@nwppa.org for pricing and to register.
Note: Organizations that register a group of employees will receive every fifth registration for free. For example, if you register five employees, you only pay for four; register 10 employees, you only pay for eight; and so on. There is nothing additional you need to do to receive this discount.
Cancellation Policy:
For in-person events: cancellations at least 30 days prior to the event will receive a full refund; within 15-29 days there will be a $100 fee; and within 1-14 days or no show, the charge will be 100% of the registration fee.
When possible, please send a substitute instead of canceling; NWPPA does not charge a fee for substitutions. To request a refund, please contact us at registration@nwppa.org or (360) 254-0109.
Continuing Hours:
This course qualifies for 15 continuing hours. Certificates are issued upon full completion of the course.