Hands On Learning

I'm one of those people that just has to touch the wall to see if sign is correct - "Wet Paint." I can't help it, if I see a switch to throw or a button to press there is temptation. Of course, I know better and would not do it in a substation, but I want to and that is one of the reasons I can't wait to get on the exhibit floor every morning.

I know the manufacturers will have displays that allow me to punch the buttons and watch the equipment operate. More importantly, many have developed short programs to give me training not only on how the equipment operates, but why and how to apply it to the grid.

I look for crowds of people standing around someone talking at a display. That is a sure sign the manufacturer is teaching, discussing, or answering questions. Don't worry if you get there and the program is half over. They run them throughout the day. And they will be happy to set you up for the next one. Several times I have been lucky to have them repeat it just for me. How can you beat that?