I typically write a review of how the CGA Conference & Expo went for us as a company, but this year I’m being a bit more proactive and writing about what I’m excited about at this years event. It's more than just an industry event; it's a vibrant hub where I reconnect with the core purpose of our work: protecting lives and infrastructure. The 2025 gathering promises to be another enriching experience, and I'm already buzzing with excitement about the opportunities it presents.

For me, the CGA Conference is a chance to recharge my professional batteries. In the day-to-day hustle, it's easy to get caught up in the details. The conference provides a valuable opportunity to step back, gain a broader perspective, and reaffirm my commitment to the vital mission of damage prevention. It's where I get to reflect on the progress we've made, acknowledge the challenges that remain, and collaborate on solutions that will shape our future.

This year, the program is particularly compelling, offering a diverse array of sessions that span the entire spectrum of our industry. From in-depth explorations of cutting-edge technologies to practical workshops on refining established best practices, there's something for everyone. I appreciate the conference organizers' dedication to providing a well-rounded educational experience that caters to a wide range of interests and expertise levels.

And I'm also particularly eager to share the advancements we've made in our damage prevention product (formerly Utilocate). We've integrated Urbint's world-class AI risk models to provide risk and impact scoring directly within the ticket management workflow. This will be a game-changer, bringing sophisticated AI-driven risk assessment to smaller and medium-sized companies that previously lacked access to this crucial technology.

One of the aspects of the conference I consistently look forward to is the opportunity to immerse myself in the "Innovation & Technology Trends" track. I've always been a tech enthusiast, and I'm fascinated by the potential of emerging technologies to revolutionize the way we work. In an industry that's often perceived as traditional, it's inspiring to see the growing adoption of innovative solutions.

Working at Urbint now (which, as many of you know, happened after Competers joined their fold last year), I'm especially interested in seeing how our own technology aligns with and complements the broader trends in AI-driven solutions.

And speaking of Urbint, I'm really looking forward to the session on "Streamlining Disaster Management with Real-Time Logistics and Resource Allocation" on Thursday, April 10th. Our President, Matt Crye, will be taking part in that discussion, and I'm incredibly eager to soak up his insights and expertise. Having witnessed firsthand the devastating impact of natural disasters on communities and infrastructure, I believe that effective storm response is a critical area of focus and is relevant for the wider damage prevention industry too.

Since I'm still relatively new to the Urbintteam, this session provides a valuable opportunity for me to deepen my understanding of our storm response solutions and how they empower utilities and infrastructure providers to navigate those incredibly challenging situations.

Beyond the formal educational sessions, I'm a firm believer in the power of networking. The CGA Conference is where you can connect with the people who are at the forefront of our industry. It's a chance to engage in meaningful conversations, exchange ideas, and build relationships that can lead to future collaborations and advancements.

And, of course, I'm always on the hunt for new technologies and solutions that can help us all do our jobs better. The exhibit hall is a treasure trove of innovation, showcasing the latest tools, equipment, and services for damage prevention. I plan to spend a significant amount of time exploring the booths, learning about new products, and seeking out solutions that can address specific challenges we face.

Conclusion

The 2025 CGA Conference & Expo will be a pivotal event, driving significant advancements in our field. I'm looking forward to contributing to the critical discussions that will shape our industry's direction. And, I'll admit, seeing what our competitors are up to definitely adds an extra edge of excitement. It reminds me of my hockey days – that drive to push harder, innovate faster, and ultimately, come out on top. I look forward to connecting with you all there to share insights and collectively advance damage prevention. Let's make this a conference that sets a new standard for progress.

See the CGA 2025 Schedule here