The EV Charging Summit & Expo’s Shop Talks Are Jam-Packed with Valuable Insights

Shop Talks at the The EV Charging Summit & Expo are Peer-led Discussions Jam-Packed with Valuable Insights

Don’t miss the exciting Shop Talks at the The EV Charging Summit & Expo, where you can engage in a jam-packed day of peer-led discussions focused on tackling and sharing best practices for the specific challenges facing your industry. These sessions are designed to foster collaboration and provide valuable insights from industry leaders, allowing participants to explore real-world solutions and strategies that can drive progress in the transportation electrification and EV charging infrastructure space. It’s a unique opportunity to connect with others facing similar challenges and learn from the experiences of peers and experts alike.

Please note the Summit’s Shop Talks often fill to capacity; registration is recommended to guarantee your seat.

General Summit Day One: Wed, March 26, 2025

On Wednesday, March 26, 2025, a wide variety of valuable Shop Talks are available.

Navigating Grants for EV Chargers

Wed, March 26, 2025 | 8:00 am–9:00 am

Speaker:
Jimmy O’Dea (Invited)
Assistant Deputy Director, Transportation Electrification
Caltrans

Grants for EV chargers are available through federal, state, and local programs, including the U.S. Department of Energy’s Charging and Fueling Infrastructure Program and others which support the installation of EV chargers in underserved areas. Many states, such as California and New York, offer additional incentives for businesses and local governments to install charging stations. Additionally, utility companies and private sector programs also provide rebates and incentives to reduce the cost of installing EV chargers.

*(Image: BillPierce.net, generated by Google Gemini AI)*

The State of EV Charging Uptime Standardization

Wed, March 26, 2025 | 8:00 am–9:00 am

Speaker:
Nick Bordeau
VP Engineering
Lynkwell

EV charging uptime standardization is crucial to ensure reliable access to charging stations, reducing downtime and inconvenience for drivers. Consistent performance standards can help build trust among EV drivers, fostering greater adoption of electric vehicles. Uptime has been an ongoing problem in the EV charging industry, and solutions for the problem are making progress, easing the transition for drivers to move from gas to electric vehicles.

Energy Management and Infrastructure Deployment for Utilities

Wed, March 26, 2025 | 8:00 am–9:00 am

Speakers:
Glenn Halliday
Electric Transportation Solutions Manager
Georgia Power Company

Craig Miller
Senior Director, Operations and Infrastructure
Xcel Energy

Ryan Gram
Vice President
Kimley-Horn and Associates

In this Shop Talk, utilities will share insights on various projects designed to accelerate accessible public EV charging within their communities. Discussion topics will include how Make-Ready programs can streamline infrastructure deployment, examples of community charging initiatives aimed at addressing EV charging deserts, and strategies for collaborating with customers to ensure efficient project rollouts. Additional conversations will address regulatory hurdles, the benefits of utility-owned charging for smaller communities, and grid considerations when determining charger locations, hardware, and construction requirements.

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Infrastructure Optimization for Grocers, Big Box Stores, and Retail

Wed, March 26, 2025 | 8:00 am–9:00 am

Speaker:
TBA

EV charging infrastructure optimization for grocers, big box stores, and retail businesses is crucial for enhancing the customer experience and attracting more foot traffic. By strategically placing charging stations and utilizing data to manage energy usage, retailers can ensure efficient operation and minimize grid strain. Additionally, offering accessible, high-quality charging solutions can position these businesses as key players in the transition to electric mobility, boosting their sustainability credentials and attracting environmentally-conscious consumers.

Workplace EV Charging

Wed, March 26, 2025 | 8:00 am–9:00 am

Speakers:
Jason Zimbler
Director, Light Duty Vehicle
CALSTART

Brandon Oldham
Senior Project Manager
CALSTART

Workplace EV charging is becoming an essential offering for businesses looking to attract and retain environmentally-conscious employees while supporting the transition to electric vehicles. Providing charging stations at the workplace encourages employees to switch to EVs, ensuring they have convenient access to charging during their workday. Additionally, it can help businesses meet sustainability goals.

Preparing for Inevitable Lithium Ion Fires: Training, Equipment, and Insurance Liability Best Practices

Wed, March 26, 2025 | 4:15 pm – 5:15 pm

Speakers:
Bruno Lucarelli
Managing Partner
EV Safety, Inc.

Leon Parkhouse
Chief Engineer
EV Safety, Inc.

Patrick Durham
Captain
Troy Fire Department, Michigan

Jason Goldfarb
Partner
Falcon Rappaport & Berkman LLP

In 2025, insurers and local governments are intensifying their safety inquiries for electrification projects, particularly concerning the risks of lithium-ion fires. This high-profile panel features the world’s top lithium-ion fire trainer, along with former C-suite executives from SpaceX, COX Automotive, and leading legal firms, to discuss the best practices for EV safety training, certification, and equipment. The session will focus on strategies to protect your business and customers from thermal runaway incidents, providing essential precautions and protocols to minimize risks in your EV charging operations.

Convenience Stores, QSRs, Fast Food Restaurants

Wed, March 26, 2025 | 4:15 pm – 5:15 pm

Speaker:
Anup Parikh
Owner
Pangea Charging LLC

EV charging at convenience stores, quick-service restaurants (QSRs), and fast food establishments is becoming increasingly important as consumers look for charging options during short visits. These businesses can capitalize on high traffic volumes by installing fast chargers, offering customers a convenient way to charge while they refuel or grab a meal. By incorporating EV charging infrastructure, these businesses can enhance their appeal, attract environmentally conscious customers, and contribute to the growth of sustainable transportation.

Parking Structures

Wed, March 26, 2025 | 4:15 pm – 5:15 pm

Speakers:
Nathan Donnell, CAPP
Senior Director EV/Partnerships
LAZ Parking

David Sacci
VP of AUTOChargit
Dasher Lawless

Cullen Lee
Senior Manager – EV Development
Toronto Parking Authority

EV charging at parking structures is a key element in expanding access to charging infrastructure, especially in urban areas with limited space. By integrating charging stations into parking garages, businesses and municipalities can provide convenient options for EV owners while maximizing existing real estate. This setup helps meet the growing demand for charging infrastructure and supports the transition to electric vehicles, making it easier for drivers to charge their cars while parked for extended periods.

Public Transit and Municipal Fleets

Wed, March 26, 2025 | 4:15 pm – 5:15 pm

Speakers:
Natalie Harris
Director of Fleet Maintenance
Alexandria Transit Company (DASH)

Lisa Shafer
Coordinated Portfolio Manager (PPM IV), Fleet
King County Metro Transit

Public transit and municipal fleets play a critical role in advancing EV charging infrastructure by leading the transition to electric vehicles within government-owned fleets. By investing in EVs and associated charging networks, these fleets help set an example for other sectors while reducing emissions and promoting sustainability in local communities. Additionally, municipalities can leverage their infrastructure to create more accessible and widespread charging options, making electric mobility more viable for both public services and residents.

General Summit Day Two: March 27, 2025

Day two of the summit, Thursday, March 27, 2025, offers several more valuable Shop Talks.

EV Charging Implementation for Universities

Thu, March 27, 2025 | 10:15 am – 11:15 am

Speakers:
Marlene Cramer
Director, Transportation & Parking Services
California Polytechnic State University

Kristin Larson
Director of Energy & Sustainability
San Diego State University

The California State University (CSU) system, the largest public university system in the U.S., is committed to providing EV charging infrastructure across its 23 campuses, with a total of 827 Level 2 chargers and 32 Level 3 chargers. In this Shop Talk, transportation and parking leaders from the CSU system will discuss their varied approaches to EV charging implementation and funding strategies, tailored to the unique needs of each campus. Topics will include strategic differences between urban and rural campuses, funding opportunities for EV charging on college properties, vendor selection processes, pricing strategies for university vs. public access, and regional considerations that impact charging installations.

Establishing Business for Electrical Contractors and Electricians

Thu, March 27, 2025 | 11:15 am–12:15 pm

Speaker:
Kristin Larson
CEO
Southwest Industrial Electric

EV charging infrastructure presents a growing business opportunity for electrical contractors and electricians, as demand for installation services continues to rise with the increasing adoption of electric vehicles. By specializing in the installation of residential, commercial, and public charging stations, electrical professionals can tap into a rapidly expanding market. Establishing expertise in EV charging can position electricians as key players in the transition to sustainable energy and help meet the evolving needs of businesses and consumers seeking reliable charging solutions.

Commercial and Residential Real Estate EV Charging Investments

Thu, March 27, 2025 | 12:15 pm–1:15 pm

Speaker:
Mickey Papillon
Vice President, Technology Strategy
Irvine Company

Investing in EV charging infrastructure for commercial and residential real estate is becoming increasingly important as demand for electric vehicles grows. For commercial properties, offering EV charging stations can attract environmentally-conscious tenants and customers, boosting property value and enhancing marketability. In residential developments, installing EV chargers can increase appeal, meet the needs of future tenants, and position properties as forward-thinking, sustainable investments in a rapidly evolving market.

School Bus Electrification

Thu, March 27, 2025 | 1:15 pm–2:15 pm

Speakers:
Tim Lutz
Superintendent
Red Lake Independent School District #38

Cian Fields
School Bus Fleet Electrification Manager
Boston Public Schools

Tim Farquer
Superintendent, Mercer County Schools & Founder, Bus2Grid
Mercer County Schools

In this session, speakers will guide you through the process of electrifying school buses, sharing valuable lessons learned from their real-world projects. Discussion topics will cover a range of key issues, including funding opportunities to support electrification, selecting the right bus models and charging hardware, and the impact of cold weather on charging performance. Additionally, speakers will explore the benefits of leveraging microgrids, managing charging schedules to optimize off-peak usage, and navigating purchasing and contracting laws for electric school buses, all while discussing the importance of strategic partnerships with utilities and Make Ready programs.

Insightful Shop Talks at the EV Charging Summit and Expo

Don’t miss these insightful Shop Talks at the EV Charging Summit and Expo. EVinfo.net is a marketing partner of the Summit. EVinfo.net clients receive a 50% discount off Summit tickets. Get your tickets today!

Bill Pierce

Electric Vehicle Marketing Consultant, Writer and Editor. Publisher EVinfo.net.
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