EMPOWER ARKANSAS CONFERENCE & EXPO

That’s a wrap!

2026 Conference Recap >>
“As energy demand continues to grow and important policy decisions approach in advance of the 2027 legislative session, it is critical that policymakers, energy developers, utilities, economic developers, workforce leaders, and community stakeholders have meaningful opportunities to engage with one another. Arkansas Advanced Energy is uniquely positioned to convene these conversations, foster productive dialogue, and help identify practical solutions that support energy reliability, affordability, economic growth, and long-term energy security for our state.”
— Lauren Waldrip, Executive Director of Arkansas Advanced Energy

Thank You to the 2026 Speakers

  • April Ambrose

    Director of Workforce Development

    Arkansas Advanced Energy Foundation

  • Roby Brock

    CEO, Natural State Media

    Host, Executive Producer of Talk Business & Politics

  • Christopher Crane

    Senior Leader, Film Commissioner

    Arkansas Economic Development Commission

  • Kenneth Dubin, MBA

    Senior Electricity Analyst/Economist

    U.S. Energy Information Administration

  • David Giesige

    Executive Director

    Northwest Arkansas Council

  • Joel Gordon

    Manager Client Services, CI & Technology

    Arkansas Manufacturing Solutions

  • Dr. Christopher Heigle

    President

    Arkansas Northeastern College

  • Meredith Jennings, PhD, CC-P

    Director of Local Government & Community Initiatives

    Houston Advanced Research Center (HARC)

  • Senator Mark Johnson

    Arkansas State Senate

    District 17

  • Simon Mahan

    Executive Director

    Southern Renewable Energy Association

  • Gary Moody

    Deputy Director

    Connected Grid Initiative

  • Judge John Alan Nelson

    Mississippi County Judge

  • Mollie Palmer

    Vice President of Communication and Engagement

    Heart of Arkansas United Way

  • Senator Clint Penzo

    Arkansas Senate

  • Representative Aaron Pilkington

    District 45

    Arkansas House of Representatives

  • Jonathon Rasburry

    Arkansas PACE Administrator

    Arkansas Advanced Energy Foundation

  • Rachel Wilson

    Energy Market Development

    Google