President’s Column: Make the Most of ATCE 2026: A Strategic Investment in Your Career and Organization
C. Susan Howes_
October is an exciting time for SPE members around the world because it means the Annual Technical Conference and Exhibition (ATCE) is nearly here. This year, ATCE will take place 21–23 October, at the George R. Brown Convention Center in Houston.
Whether you are an experienced technical professional, an emerging leader, a student, a young professional, an executive, an entrepreneur, or a job seeker, ATCE offers opportunities to learn, build relationships, and advance your career. The key is to approach the conference with a plan and a clear understanding of the value you want to gain, as well as the value you can bring back to your organization.
A Strategic Investment in Knowledge and Capability
ATCE brings together technical experts, industry leaders, innovators, service providers, and energy professionals from around the world. The program provides access to the latest technical information, case studies, emerging technologies, best practices, and practical solutions addressing some of the industry’s most important challenges.
For many attendees, the greatest value begins with the technical program. Before arriving, take time to review the agenda and identify the technical sessions, special sessions, strategic panels, and general sessions most relevant to your responsibilities and professional interests. Consider attending ticketed events such as Technical Section Receptions, the Keynote Luncheon, the Awards Banquet, and the President’s Luncheon and Annual Meeting of Members.
If several members of your organization are attending, develop a team strategy. Divide coverage of important sessions so that your organization can maximize its investment and benefit from a broader range of presentations and discussions. After the conference, share key insights, lessons learned, new technologies, and industry contacts with your colleagues.
This approach transforms ATCE from an individual professional development activity into an investment that benefits the entire organization.
Make the Business Case for Attending Some employers require employees to provide justification before approving conference attendance. A strong business case should clearly connect the ATCE program with your role, responsibilities, and your organization’s objectives. For a sample justification letter, find it here on the ATCE registration page under FAQs and Justification Letter.
ATCE offers a unique opportunity to gain actionable knowledge from experts and leaders across the energy industry. The program includes conceptual technologies, case studies, lessons learned, and practical solutions that can help professionals address technical and business challenges more effectively.