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2026 Operations and Engineering Conference
The 2026 O&E Conference brings together utility professionals, industry experts, and technology partners to collaborate, learn, and lead the future of energy and infrastructure.
Attendees will explore emerging technologies, grid reliability strategies, and innovations shaping the electric utility industry while connecting with peers from across the region.
WiFi Information:
- Network Name: Polaris-Meetings
- PW: truenorth
Attendees arriving early are invited to participate in optional activities on Monday afternoon.
Must be pre-registered.
Clay Shoot
Sponsored by Western United Electric
Location:
Pikes Peak Gun Club
450 S Franceville Coal Mine Rd
Colorado Springs, CO 80929
Lunch will be provided and firearms are available for rent.
Top Golf
Location:
Top Golf
165 Spectrum Loop
Colorado Springs, CO 80921
Appetizers and one drink are included.
The 2026 O&E Conference will be held at Hotel Polaris, located in North Colorado Springs near the United States Air Force Academy.
Hotel Polaris
8989 North Gate Blvd
Colorado Springs, CO 80921
Hotel Polaris offers modern accommodations, multiple dining options, and event spaces where conference sessions and activities will take place.
Registration
Lower level of Hotel Polaris
WiFi
Network Name: Polaris-Meetings | PW: truenorth
Parking
Complimentary parking is available for conference attendees at Hotel Polaris.
Guests staying at the hotel may park in the hotel parking lot or designated guest parking areas. Attendees who are not staying overnight may also use the hotel parking areas.
Please follow hotel signage upon arrival.
Hotel Amenities
Hotel Polaris features several on-site amenities for guests including:
- On-site dining and bar options
- Fitness center
- Lounge areas for informal meetings and networking
- Scenic views of the Front Range
Getting Around
The hotel is located just off Interstate 25 near North Gate Boulevard, making it easily accessible for conference attendees traveling from the Denver or Colorado Springs areas.
Join us at the Welcome Reception for a special opportunity to meet former Denver Bronco and conference keynote speaker Karl Mecklenburg. Karl will be available for a meet and greet and autographs during the reception, so be sure to bring your Broncos gear to have it signed!
We are excited to welcome Karl Mecklenburg, former Denver Broncos linebacker and one of the most respected defensive players in franchise history, as the keynote speaker for the 2026 O&E Conference.
Karl’s story is one of determination, adaptability, and leadership. After joining the Broncos as a college walk-on and a twelfth-round draft pick, he went on to build an extraordinary 12-year NFL career, becoming a six-time Pro Bowl selection, a team captain, and a key player in three Super Bowl appearances. Known for his incredible versatility, Karl played all seven defensive front positions during his career, sometimes in the same game, earning a reputation as one of the most adaptable and relentless competitors in NFL history.
Today, Karl brings the same passion and discipline that defined his football career to his speaking engagements. Drawing from his experiences competing at the highest level, he shares powerful insights on leadership, teamwork, perseverance, and performing under pressure — lessons that resonate strongly with professionals facing complex challenges and rapidly changing environments.
Join us as Karl kicks off the conference with an inspiring and motivating keynote that will set the tone for two days of learning, collaboration, and innovation.
Conference registration includes breakfast, lunch, refreshment breaks, and the banquet dinner as part of the event schedule. If you are looking for additional dining options during your stay, several restaurants and cafés are located just minutes from Hotel Polaris.
Below are a few nearby dining options attendees may enjoy.
Casual Dining
Parry’s Pizzeria & Taphouse
1268 Interquest Pkwy #100
Colorado Springs, CO 80921
New York-style pizza, wings, sandwiches, and one of the largest craft beer selections in the area.
Colorado Mountain Brewery
1110 Interquest Pkwy
Colorado Springs, CO 80921
A popular local brewery offering burgers, sandwiches, and Colorado-inspired pub food along with house-brewed beers.
Walter’s303 Pizzeria & Taproom – Flying Horse
2690 North Gate Blvd
Colorado Springs, CO 80921
A local favorite known for handmade pizzas, wings, and rotating craft beers.
Quick Lunch or Casual Options
Fuzzy’s Taco Shop
1375 Interquest Pkwy Suite 100
Colorado Springs, CO 80921
Fast-casual tacos, burritos, and margaritas with a laid-back atmosphere.
Jersey Mike’s Subs
1250 Interquest Pkwy
Colorado Springs, CO 80921
Fresh made-to-order subs and quick lunch options.
Breakfast & Coffee
Omelets Etc.
1337 Interquest Pkwy
Colorado Springs, CO 80921
A local breakfast favorite offering omelets, pancakes, and hearty breakfast plates.
Starbucks
1150 Interquest Pkwy
Colorado Springs, CO 80921
Coffee, breakfast sandwiches, and quick snacks for attendees on the go.
Photos will be taken throughout the 2026 O&E Conference to capture highlights from sessions, activities, and networking events. A collection of event photos will be shared with attendees following the conference.
We also invite attendees to help capture the experience! If you take photos during the conference, you’re welcome to add them to the shared photo album.
Please feel free to upload photos from sessions, activities, the vendor show, or social events. We look forward to seeing the conference through your perspective!