Project Engineering 101: How to create an engineering project

Tuesday, June 2, 2026

9:00 AM - 12:00 PM CT

Location: CC - L100E

Speaker(s)

Steven Louria

EEC Foreman II
Western Area Power Administration
Casper, Wyoming, United States
Travis J. Phifer

Telecom Engineering Manager
Tri-State G&T
Westminster, Colorado, United States
Jaspal Singh (he/him/his)

OT Network Engineering Manager
Sacramento Municipal Utility District
El Dorado Hills, California, United States
Shaun Skidmore, PE

Principal Engineer
Idaho Power Company
Boise, Idaho, United States
Nathan Staub

Telecommunications Engineer
Nebraska Public Power District
Matt P. Schnell

Part-Time Telecommunications Manager Consultant
Nebraska Public Power District
York, Nebraska, United States

PDF
Khai Tran

Telecomm Operations & Maintenance, Cost Schedule Specialist
Sacramento Municipal Utility District - SMUD
Sacramento, California, United States

What does it take to move an engineering project from concept to execution within a utility environment? This practical, utility-led session provides a step-by-step look at how to initiate and develop a successful engineering project—from initial concept and scoping through execution readiness.
Requested during the 2025 UTC Conference roundtable, this session addresses real-world challenges utilities face when starting new projects. Utility engineers will share their firsthand approaches to key phases of project development, including project write-ups and justification, material planning and procurement, contractor coordination, site visits, and research requirements.
Attendees will gain insight into how different utilities structure and manage early-stage engineering efforts, along with lessons learned, common pitfalls to avoid, and strategies to improve efficiency and outcomes. Featuring 2–3 experienced utility engineers, this session offers a practical, peer-driven perspective that attendees can apply directly within their own organizations.
Key Takeaways:

How to effectively scope and document an engineering project.

Best practices for ordering materials and engaging contractors.

The role of site visits and research in project success.

Real-world utility approaches and lessons learned.

Strategies to streamline project initiation and execution.