08/24/2026
The Illinois Association of Environmental Professionals (IAEP) invites you to join us for an engaging in-person panel discussion featuring environmental leaders from three of the region’s largest energy utilities: Commonwealth Edison (ComEd), Nicor Gas/Southern Company Gas, and WEC Energy Group.
As the energy industry continues to navigate evolving environmental regulations, sustainability initiatives, infrastructure modernization, and stakeholder expectations, these professionals are at the forefront of balancing operational excellence with environmental stewardship.
Drawing on decades of combined experience in compliance, permitting, remediation, and environmental program management, our panelists will share firsthand perspectives on the challenges and opportunities shaping the future of utility environmental management.
Panelists:
Sara Race (ComEd) – Senior Manager, Environmental Management
Alicia Bishop (Nicor / Southern Company Gas) – Manager, Environmental Programs
Matt Hildreth, P.G. (WEC Energy Group) – Senior Environmental Consultant
Moderated by Brian Wozniak, Vice President with Civil & Environmental Consultants, Inc.,
The discussion will explore:
Key environmental and operational accomplishments achieved in 2026;
Emerging priorities and strategic initiatives for 2027 and beyond;
Major regulatory, technical, and business challenges facing utility environmental programs:
What utility owners and managers expect from their environmental consulting partners; and
Practical advice for firms seeking to build successful relationships with utility clients.
Whether you are an environmental professional, consultant, regulator, or industry stakeholder, this event offers a unique opportunity to hear directly from utility decision-makers and gain valuable insight into the evolving environmental landscape of the energy sector.
Time:
3:00 PM to 3:30 PM: Registration & Networking
3:30 PM to 5:00 PM: Program and Q&A Session
5:00 PM to 7:00 PM: Cocktails & Networking [heavy appetizers & two drink tickets per attendee included]
Location:
DoubleTree by Hilton Chicago-Arlington Heights, 75 W Algonquin Road, Arlington Heights, IL 60005
Cost:
All IAEP Members: $85; Non-members: $115
Refunds are allowed with cancellation 48 hours prior to the webinar. Substitutes permitted for corporate members only.
Registration:
Pre-registration is required at www.iaepnetwork.org
IAEP will provide a certificate for 1.5 Professional Development Hours to attendees.
Registration is online only:
https://iaepnetwork.starchapter.com/meetinginfo.php?id=17&ts=1787246871
Join us again for this special event which benefits our IAEP Environmental Student Research Grant Program and Scholarships, and network with leaders in environmental businesses and educational communities.