Electric Utility Wildfire Mitigation Strategies
Combining practical industry experience with a customer-focused perspective, this presentation brings a valuable, real-world viewpoint to discussions on distribution system fire mitigation, utility risk management, and resilient electrical infrastructure
Wildfire mitigation is becoming an increasingly important part of electric utility planning and operations, as utilities work to protect communities, maintain reliable service, and manage the financial consequences of catastrophic fires. Utilities face a dual challenge: protecting infrastructure from wildfire damage while reducing the potential for power lines and equipment to ignite fires. Addressing these risks requires coordinated efforts that combine traditional system operations and modern analytical techniques. This presentation is a great entry point and dive into the challenges and solutions of wildfires.
The PES Nebraska Technical Chapter is proud to bring you Josh Stern from Hitachi to share his diverse experience in this space to support planning in this space
We are very happy to work with a local industry partner, Power Delivery Services Inc., to bring this topic to the membership. They have served the power community in Nebraska for more than 30 years and brought this topic forward based on feedback they've heard from around the State.
Our event will be at a NEW location for IEEE Nebraska events. We are very happy to be hosting at Ervin & Smith in Aksarben Village. Ervin & Smith is a local advertising and marketing agency, and has a modern event space that will be a great fit for this event.
Come ready to learn about Wildfire Mitigation and engage with your peers!
UNO Students - This event is in your backyard and is a $5 burrito bar! Why would you pass this up?
Date and Time
Location
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- 1926 S 67th St
- Suite 250
- Omaha, Nebraska
- United States 68106
- Building: Ervin & Smith
- Room Number: Main Conference Room
- Click here for Map
- Contact Event Hosts
- Co-sponsored by Nebraska Industrial Applications Society and IEEE Nebraska
- Starts 27 October 2026 05:00 AM UTC
- Ends 05 November 2026 10:00 PM UTC
- Admission fee ?
Speakers
Josh Stern
Wildfire Mitigation Strategies
Josh will address the growing importance of wildfire risk reduction, spark prevention technologies, and innovative equipment solutions designed to help utilities mitigate fire ignition risks associated with distribution infrastructure. He will explore how these solutions can support utility wildfire mitigation strategies, enhance public safety, and protect communities and critical infrastructure while maintaining reliable electrical service.
Combining practical industry experience with a customer-focused perspective, Josh brings a valuable, real-world viewpoint to discussions on distribution system fire mitigation, utility risk management, and resilient electrical infrastructure
Biography:
Josh Stern – Hitachi Energy | Distribution System Fire Mitigation Solutions Presenter
Josh Stern is an experienced sales professional with Hitachi Energy, bringing extensive industry knowledge and customer-facing experience in electrical grid infrastructure and high-voltage equipment. Throughout his career, Josh has developed strong relationships with electric utilities, engineering professionals, and industry partners, helping customers identify reliable, innovative solutions to complex power system challenges.
In his role with Hitachi Energy’s Grid Components business, Josh works across multiple product groups, providing insight into equipment applications, customer requirements, and the importance of grid reliability, operational performance, and long-term asset protection. His experience presenting technical solutions and translating complex product features into practical customer benefits positions him to discuss fire mitigation solutions for electrical distribution systems.
Agenda
5:30 - Doors open, grab a beverage of your choice, and get ready for the presentation
- Beer, pop, and water will be available
6:00 - Our Chipotle dinner will begin, and our speaker will kickoff
- Double meat burrito bar
- Chips and salsa
6:00 - 7:00 - The main presentation on Wildfire Mitigation Strategies
- Speaker Josh Stern
7:00 - 7:15 - Presentation closeout and PES announcements
The focus of this presentation is on utility mitigation strategies, but it will be beneficial to other members of PES, those in the industry, and those looking to learn more about wildfires and how they interact with the utility industry.
If you have any questions about the topic, please reach out!