• Posted: September 17, 2024
• Elbert Walters III, EV infrastructure, EV readiness, IBEW Local 134, Infraday Midwest, Infrastructure, NECA, Workforce Development

With the rapid expansion of electric vehicles (EVs) and Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment (EVSE) charging infrastructure in the Midwest, Powering Chicago, led by Executive Director Elbert Walters III, is committed to providing essential information and credible resources to individuals and businesses interested in adopting renewable energy. 

“Our goal is to support the safe, reliable, and efficient installation and operation of electrical systems, including EV infrastructure, ensuring optimal performance for charging stations both during and after installation,” said Walters.

On September 10th, Walters attended the 5th Infraday Midwest Event for infrastructure leaders at Hotel Chicago Downtown, Autograph Collection in Chicago, Illinois.

This event brought together policymakers, industry experts, researchers, and stakeholders to network and discuss the benefits, challenges, and opportunities related to infrastructure development and modernization across the Midwest. The panel discussions covered a wide range of topics, including pathways to renewable energy and net zero, the impact of AI and machine learning, infrastructure investment strategies, and more.

Walters was a presenter for an EV Infrastructure discussion, where he discussed Chicago’s EV goals, the challenges in meeting those goals, and how Powering Chicago is working to help develop a strategic workforce to meet and overcome these challenges. 

During the event, there were various panels and roundtable discussions where participating speakers raised several key points about the benefits, challenges, and solutions in association with EV infrastructure, including:

• Revolutionizing Public Infrastructure: The Impact of AI and Machine Learning
• Adapting Infrastructure for a Changing Climate: Strategies and Innovations by Public Agencies
• Midwest Utility Infrastructure: Case Studies and Insights
• Pathways to Renewable Energy and Net Zero in the Midwest
• Urban Transformation: The Impact of New Mobility Solutions on City Landscapes
• Challenges and Solutions for Public Works Directors in the Midwest
• Financing the Future: Infrastructure Investment Strategies in the Midwest
• Innovative Approaches to Water Infrastructure in the Midwest: Challenges, Solutions, and Future Directions
• Real Estate and Infrastructure in the Midwest: Navigating Development and Sustainability
• Enhancing Midwest Airport Infrastructure: Challenges, Innovations, and Future Prospects