Baker Tilly to kick off APPA National Conference with seminar on technology and the utility industry

May 18, 2011

MADISON, WI – Baker Tilly professionals will present a pre-conference seminar at the American Public Power Association’s (APPA) National Conference, June 17-22, at the Washington Marriott Wardman Park in Washington, D.C.

Energy and Utilities Group Partner Russ Hissom and Consulting Manager Najla Mamou will present a half-day seminar entitled "Protect Your Customers Confidence in Today’s Digital World." Pre-conference seminars will be held on Saturday and Sunday, June 18-19, 2011, with the Baker Tilly presentation from 8:30 – 12:00 on Sunday, June 19.

With advancements in technology and increasing expectations by customers for electronic options, many utilities are operating in unfamiliar territory. This has led to an increased focus on understanding technologies, redefining processes, enhancing controls, and creating a culture that defines and adheres to customer information security. Hissom and Mamou will discuss:

• Best practices to protect customer information in today’s digital world
• Risks and other considerations when providing electronic options to customers
• Various types of technology projects to improve efficiency in delivery of services, including electronic billing and payments, smart grid, and AMI/AMR
• Case studies from utilities who have efficiently integrated electronic solutions into everyday operations

The APPA National Conference helps utility leaders and policymakers connect with industry leaders, partners, and peers while learning about the complex issues facing public power utilities. The 2011 program features political, economic, business, and public policy thinkers providing insights on how Washington really works. For more information on the APPA conference, visit www.publicpower.org/NationalConference.

About Baker Tilly
With staff totaling more than 1,350, Baker Tilly Virchow Krause, LLP, provides a wide range of accounting, tax, assurance, and consulting services. Ranked as the 16th largest* firm in the country, the firm serves clients from offices in Chicago; Detroit; Minneapolis; New York; Washington, D.C.; and throughout Wisconsin.

Baker Tilly is a member of Baker Tilly International, a worldwide network of 150 high quality, independent accounting and business advisory firms in 120 countries, with more than 25,000 professionals. The combined worldwide revenue of independent member firms exceeds $3 billion.

 

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS FOR ALL MINNESOTA MEDIA OUTLETS ONLY: All company references to Baker Tilly in this press release must be listed as Baker Tilly Virchow Krause, LLP. No shortened version of the company name is permitted. All references to Baker Tilly International do not require modification.

*According to Accounting Today’s 2011 list of "Top 100 Firms."