The Summit
September 9-10, 2024
Loews Hotel | Chicago O'Hare
Registration is now Closed
The Summit provides an opportunity to bring together lightning protection organizations
and key individuals to outline challenges and opportunities for the industry.
Together and separate, we each have a specific role in the strategy to drive the industry forward.
Collaborative minds creating strategy and momentum to reach new heights.
By registering for this event, you become a Delegate for the lightning protection industry
to provide the insight and leadership needed to support the growth of our industry.
Delegate Registration is now Closed.
In order to make the process efficient, we are capping the number of delegates
this year to 50 individuals.  In addition, there will be a two (2) delegate maximum from each
company/organization to ensure different experiences and input.
Topics
- Updates from Industry Partners*
- Defining Industry success:Â Challenges | Opportunities
- Defining short term and long-term industry goals
- Identify key initiatives and form task groups
- Task Groups outline goals, objectives and tasks for their initiatives
Key topics that have already been requested are:
- Codes for Critical Facilities
- Maintenance and Inspection as part of NFPA780
Gaining Input on Initiatives and Vision
We want your input! The goal is to hit the ground running when Delegates arrive September 9th.
This means identifying key initiatives before the delegates arrive.
During registration, Individuals/Future Delegates have the opportunity to indicate key
initiatives and share their Vision. If you cannot join us, and as always,
send us your ideas and suggestions to lpi@lightning.org.
Industry Partners
Tim Harger
Lightning Protection Institute
Executive Director
Jessica McGraw
Lightning Prevention Systems, Inc.
President ULPA Board
Dr. Carlos Mata
Scientific Lightning Solutions, LLC
Chief Technology Officer
Bryan Holland
NEMA – National Electrical Manufacturers Association
Senior Technical Field Rep – S. Region
Kelley Collins
Lightning Protection Institute
Director of Business Development & Communications
Jose Acosta
Scientific Lightning Solutions, LLC
Chief Revenue Officer
Mindi Sokoloski-Dunham
CEO | Multi Spectral Aerial Solutions
IIBEC New England Chapter President
Christine Porter
Intertek | Codes and Standards Trainer
NFPA 780 Committee Chair
Kaelee Craven
Insperity
Business Performance Advisor
Evan S. Goldfuss
Savant Wealth Management
Financial Advisor CFP
Gregg Wong
AEMC
Technical Product Trainer
Peter Graser
Copperweld
Director of Codes and Standards
Mark Hendricks
DEHN, Inc.
VP Engineering
Gary FLom
Intertek
Service Line Leader
Our industry consists of multiple organizations focused on one or many objectives. By coming together, we can create a bigger and more cohesive effort for growth and provide better access to resources. The Summit is the time to hear updates on each of these organizations' efforts. Their input as well as the insight from other industry leaders will provide the foundation for outlining our industry vision.
Keynote Speaker
Scott Tillema
"Leading with Influence: Powerful Communication & Navigating Difficult Conversations"
He's Back! Scott joined us at our national conference in 2023. He returns to discuss how we as leaders can find ways to influence - even in the midst of conflict or challenging situations.
In this unique and engaging session, a retired SWAT hostage negotiator shares real-world experiences to highlight the transformative power of communication. Drawing from a career in high-stakes situations, he reveals insights on fostering connection in challenging circumstances. Attendees will gain actionable takeaways, enhancing their ability to lead with influence. Scott will share principles from intense negotiations, providing leaders with new perspective on communication and authentic connection.
Meet the Delegates
*Designated Speaker
Tyler Baumert / A/C Lightning Protection *
Baylen Smith / Atlanta Lightning Protection
Mike Dillon / Bonded Lightning Protection Systems, Inc.
Cole Newman / Bonded Lightning Protection Systems, Inc.
Renee Landers / Bonded Lightning Protection Systems, Ltd. *
Scott Necaise / Bonded Lightning Protection Systems, Ltd.
Parker Willard / Boston Lightning Rod
Nicholas Tierney / Commercial Lightning Protection
Michael Boyd / DEHN, Inc. *
Mark Hendricks / DEHN, Inc. *
Mark Morgan / East Coast Lightning Equipment *
Ryan Williams / Guardian Equipment Company
Andy Beckel / Harger Lightning & Grounding
Adam Cash / Harger Lightning & Grounding
Jeffrey Harger / HLP Systems *
Justin Harger / HLP Systems
Kelley Collins / Lightning Protection Institute *
Tim Harger / Lightning Protection Institute *
Milicent Lynch / Loehr Lightning Protection *
George Portfleet / Michigan Lightning Protection
Bret Peifer / Mr. Lightning
Ray Stripling / nVent
William Simpson / Smokestack Lightning
Todd Vought / VFC
Roland Batchelder / Warren Lightning Rod Co.
Stephen Humeniuk / Warren Lightning Rod Co. *
Brian Winovich / Western Reserve Lightning Rod
Sponsorships
Sponsorships help support the event as well as create funds to assist Delegates in meeting their objectives
(i.e. - There may be expenses incurred to meet other organizations or attend local / US government meetings
to present the case for code changes.)Â If you cannot attend, you/your company may still be a sponsor to support
our national efforts and bring recognition to your company.