BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//IEEE Power Electronics Society - ECPv6.15.18//NONSGML v1.0//EN CALSCALE:GREGORIAN METHOD:PUBLISH X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://www.ieee-pels.org X-WR-CALDESC:Events for IEEE Power Electronics Society REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H X-Robots-Tag:noindex X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:America/Chicago BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:20250309T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:20251102T070000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:20260308T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:20261101T070000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:20270314T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:20271107T070000 END:STANDARD END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:America/New_York BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20250309T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20251102T060000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20260308T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20261101T060000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20270314T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20271107T060000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20280312T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20281105T060000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20290311T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20291104T060000 END:STANDARD END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260322 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260327 DTSTAMP:20260405T143413 CREATED:20260130T172427Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260226T185955Z UID:10000362-1774137600-1774569599@www.ieee-pels.org SUMMARY:PELS Meeting Series at APEC 2026 DESCRIPTION:The PELS Meeting Series will be held at the Grand Hyatt San Antonio River Walk in San Antonio\, TX\, USA. \nAPEC 2026 will be held at the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center. \n*The Grand Hyatt is located right next to the Convention Center. \nVisit us at the PELS Booth #428 in Expo Hall 4! \nExpo Hours \nMonday\, March 23: 4:45 PM – 7:45 PMTuesday\, March 24: 9:00 AM – 4:30 PMWednesday\, March 25: 9:00 AM – 2:30 PM \nWe look forward to seeing you there! \n \n PELS Meeting Series Schedule\n \n \n APEC 2026 Website URL:https://www.ieee-pels.org/event/pels-meeting-series-at-apec-2026/ LOCATION:Grand Hyatt San Antonio River Walk\, 600 East Market Street\, San Antonio\, TX\, 78205\, United States END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260324T183000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260324T203000 DTSTAMP:20260405T143413 CREATED:20260113T191209Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260305T210405Z UID:10000361-1774377000-1774384200@www.ieee-pels.org SUMMARY:PELS Mentorship RoundTable at APEC 2026 DESCRIPTION:LocationGrand Hyatt San Antonio River WalkRoom: Lone Star Ballroom C\, 2nd Floor \nPELS Mentorship RoundTablesSince 2017\, the PELS Mentorship Roundtables event has facilitated access to distinguished leaders in the power electronics field. Covering non-technical topics essential for professional growth\, the Roundtables event is an intimate setting comprised of the mentor who leads the topical discussion and a small group of mentees. The event is open to anyone at any stage of their career. \nThe evening is catered with heavy hors d’oeuvres and an open bar. Distinguished mentors will lead the discussion over a shared meal in small groups. There are two sessions\, so you will have the opportunity to meet with two mentors. Selections are first come first served\, and each roundtable has limited capacity. Please select one session per time slot to reserve your space at the table. \n \n Register Here\n \nTopics and Mentors\n1. “AI-Assisted Design: Balancing Automation with Engineering Intuition”\nAlan Mantooth\nUniversity of Arkansas (USA) \n \n \nAI is becoming a household word in various ways. There is no question that it will play a role in the power electronics professionals career going forward. My group has been pursuing ways to educate our field on its uses. There are many angles to explore: technical\, ethical\, and societal. Join us for some interesting discussions. \n\n\n View Biography\n \n \n \nH. Alan Mantooth received the Ph.D. degree from the Georgia Institute of Technology. After 8 years in industry\, he joined the faculty of the Department of Electrical Engineering at the University of Arkansas\, Fayetteville\, where he currently holds the rank of Distinguished Professor. He is the Founding Director for the NSF Center on GRid-connected Power Electronic Systems (GRAPES)\, and Deputy Director of the NSF ERC on Power Optimization of Electro-Thermal Systems (POETS). He currently serves as the Founding Editor-in-Chief of the IEEE Open Journal of Power Electronics\, and Division II Director on the IEEE Board of Directors. Dr. Mantooth is a Fellow of IEEE\, Fellow of the National Academy of Inventors\, and a registered professional engineer in Arkansas. His research group developed AI-based power module layout generation tools\, AI-based RUL tools\, AI-based cybersecurity algorithms for critical infrastructure\, and AI educational material for power electronics engineers. \n\nH. Alan Mantooth received the Ph.D. degree from the Georgia Institute of Technology. After 8 years in industry\, he joined the faculty of the Department of Electrical Engineering at the University of Arkansas\, Fayetteville\, where he currently holds the rank of Distinguished Professor. He is the Founding Director for the NSF Center on GRid-connected Power Electronic Systems (GRAPES)\, and Deputy Director of the NSF ERC on Power Optimization of Electro-Thermal Systems (POETS). He currently serves as the Founding Editor-in-Chief of the IEEE Open Journal of Power Electronics\, and Division II Director on the IEEE Board of Directors. Dr. Mantooth is a Fellow of IEEE\, Fellow of the National Academy of Inventors\, and a registered professional engineer in Arkansas. His research group developed AI-based power module layout generation tools\, AI-based RUL tools\, AI-based cybersecurity algorithms for critical infrastructure\, and AI educational material for power electronics engineers. \n2. “Pathways to Recognition: How to Nominate and Be Nominated for IEEE PELS Awards”\nBurak Ozpinec\nOak Ridge National Laboratory \n \n \nDo you wonder how to recognize engineers and students to honour their achievements orservice in power electronics?Or perhaps you want to know how to getnominated for anaward? Look no further. Join our mentorship roundtable to meet experienced mentors andexplore the nomination process for multiple IEEE PELS awards. Learn how to elevatedeserving individuals\,and yourself\,through recognition. \n\n\n View Biography\n \n \n \nBurak Ozpineci earned his B.S. degree in electrical engineering from Orta DoguTechnical University\, Ankara\, Turkey\, in 1994. He then completed his M.S. and Ph.D. degreesin electrical engineering at the University of Tennessee\, Knoxville\,in 1998 and 2002\,respectively. Since 2001\, he has been with Oak Ridge National Laboratory\, where he beganas a student and has held positions as a researcher\, founding group leader of the Power andEnergy Systems Group\, group leader of the Power Electronics and Electric Machinery Group.He currently serves as a Corporate Fellow and the Section Head of the Vehicle and MobilitySystems Research Section. Additionally\, he has a joint faculty appointment with TheUniversity of Tennessee. Dr. Ozpineci is a Fellow of IEEE. \n\nBurak Ozpineci earned his B.S. degree in electrical engineering from Orta DoguTechnical University\, Ankara\, Turkey\, in 1994. He then completed his M.S. and Ph.D. degreesin electrical engineering at the University of Tennessee\, Knoxville\,in 1998 and 2002\,respectively. Since 2001\, he has been with Oak Ridge National Laboratory\, where he beganas a student and has held positions as a researcher\, founding group leader of the Power andEnergy Systems Group\, group leader of the Power Electronics and Electric Machinery Group.He currently serves as a Corporate Fellow and the Section Head of the Vehicle and MobilitySystems Research Section. Additionally\, he has a joint faculty appointment with TheUniversity of Tennessee. Dr. Ozpineci is a Fellow of IEEE. \n3. “Making the most of Internships and Early Career roles”\nDavid Reusch\nTexas Instruments \n \n \nInternships and early career roles can help launch your career journey. Comelearn and discuss about this practical topic. \n\n\n View Biography\n \n \n \nDavid Reusch works at Texas Instruments (TI) as a systems engineer on the datacenter team. Prior to joining TI\, he was a Principal Scientist atVPT Inc\, a leader in thehi-rel/space DC-DC converter market. He has also held the position of ExecutiveDirector of Applications Engineering at Efficient Power Conversion Corporation (EPC)\, aleader in low voltage GaN power devices.He received his B.S\,M.S. and Ph.D. degreesfrom Virginia Tech\, Blacksburg.While pursuing his Ph.D. degree at the Center forPower Electronics Systems (CPES) he was the recipient of the Bradley GraduateFellowship.He has authored numerous technical publications\, presentedinvited talksand educational seminars worldwide\, is a patent holder\, and a co-author of a textbookfocused on GaN power devices. \n\nDavid Reusch works at Texas Instruments (TI) as a systems engineer on the datacenter team. Prior to joining TI\, he was a Principal Scientist atVPT Inc\, a leader in thehi-rel/space DC-DC converter market. He has also held the position of ExecutiveDirector of Applications Engineering at Efficient Power Conversion Corporation (EPC)\, aleader in low voltage GaN power devices.He received his B.S\,M.S. and Ph.D. degreesfrom Virginia Tech\, Blacksburg.While pursuing his Ph.D. degree at the Center forPower Electronics Systems (CPES) he was the recipient of the Bradley GraduateFellowship.He has authored numerous technical publications\, presentedinvited talksand educational seminars worldwide\, is a patent holder\, and a co-author of a textbookfocused on GaN power devices. \n4. “Staying Current with Rapid Advancements in Power Electronics”\nJohann W. Kolar\n\nSwiss Federal Institute of Technology (ETH) Zurich \n \n \nPower electronics is advancing rapidly due to innovations in power semiconductors\,converterdesigns\, digital control methods\, and expanding applications in renewable energy\, electrictransportation\, data centers\, and smart grids. These developments offer improved efficiency andperformance but create challenges for professionals seekingto remain current in a fast-changing field. The discussion highlights practical strategies for staying informed\, includingengaging in technical publications\, professional organizations\, conferences\, and online learningplatforms. It also emphasizes the value of interdisciplinary knowledge and hands-on experiencein understanding emerging technologies. The discussion aims to provide participants withpractical approaches to maintaining technical relevance and adapting to ongoing advancementsin power electronics. \n\n\n View Biography\n \n \n \nJohann W. Kolar(LF ́25\, NAE\, NAI) joined the Swiss Federal Institute ofTechnology (ETH) Zurich in 2001as the Head of the Power Electronic Systems Laboratory\, following 15 years as an internationalconsultant and independent researcher. He has proposed numerous novel converter concepts\, includingthe Vienna Rectifier. He haspersonally supervised over 90 Ph.D. students to completion\, has extensivelypublished in IEEE conferences and IEEE Transactions\, and is named an inventor in numerous grantedpatents. As a Professor Emeritus (since August 2024)\, he continues to actively pursue research on ultra-compact and efficient WBG converter systems\, AI applications in power electronics\, Solid-StateTransformers\, and the life-cycle analyses of power electronics converter systems. \n\nJohann W. Kolar(LF ́25\, NAE\, NAI) joined the Swiss Federal Institute ofTechnology (ETH) Zurich in 2001as the Head of the Power Electronic Systems Laboratory\, following 15 years as an internationalconsultant and independent researcher. He has proposed numerous novel converter concepts\, includingthe Vienna Rectifier. He haspersonally supervised over 90 Ph.D. students to completion\, has extensivelypublished in IEEE conferences and IEEE Transactions\, and is named an inventor in numerous grantedpatents. As a Professor Emeritus (since August 2024)\, he continues to actively pursue research on ultra-compact and efficient WBG converter systems\, AI applications in power electronics\, Solid-StateTransformers\, and the life-cycle analyses of power electronics converter systems. \n5. “Share what you know through PELSTube\, Turning knowledge into Impact”\nJorge Vega\nNorthrop Grumman   \n \n \nThe principles behind good engineering deserve a wider audience. PELSTube(https://www.youtube.com/@ieeepelstube)provides a peer-reviewed platform where engineers andeducators can share clear\, insightful\, high-quality educational content with the global power electronicscommunity.By contributing a concise video\, professionals or students alike can extend the reach of theirknowledge\, gain visibility\, and help shape how the next generation understands power electronics. Forthose in industry\, it offers a practical way to build influence and recognition without relying solely onpapers or conferences. It is also possible to record videos in person at APEC and ECCE\, freeing creatorsto focus on planning and presenting.This mentorship roundtable will discuss how to translate yourexpertise into impactful educational content and lasting professional impact. \n\n\n View Biography\n \n \n \nJorge Vega earned his B.S. in Electrical Engineering and two master’s degrees\, an M.S. in ElectricalEngineering and an M.S. in Microelectronics and Photonics from the University of Arkansas. He is apower electronics engineer with about 15 years of experience in power conversion and high-reliabilitydesign\, with prior engineering roles at Texas Instruments\, Qualcomm\, ThermoFisher Scientific\, andSilanna Semiconductor. Since 2020\, Jorge has been with Northrop Grumman in theSpaceSector\, wherehe is a technical lead for satellite power supply development. He is a member of the PELS Educationcommittee chartered to provide educational content to PELS members\, and to the public at large\, ontechnical topics related to power electronics. \n\nJorge Vega earned his B.S. in Electrical Engineering and two master’s degrees\, an M.S. in ElectricalEngineering and an M.S. in Microelectronics and Photonics from the University of Arkansas. He is apower electronics engineer with about 15 years of experience in power conversion and high-reliabilitydesign\, with prior engineering roles at Texas Instruments\, Qualcomm\, ThermoFisher Scientific\, andSilanna Semiconductor. Since 2020\, Jorge has been with Northrop Grumman in theSpaceSector\, wherehe is a technical lead for satellite power supply development. He is a member of the PELS Educationcommittee chartered to provide educational content to PELS members\, and to the public at large\, ontechnical topics related to power electronics. \n6. “Writing an Effective IEEE Paper”\nDr. Leon M. Tolbert\nUniversity of Tennessee \n \n \nWriting a strong and effective IEEE paper is an essential skill for students\,researchers\, and professionals who aim to communicate their work with clarity\, rigor\, andimpact. The discussion will guide participants through the key elements of successful IEEE-style writing.Dr. Tolbert will share practical strategies to help attendees strengthen theirresearch papers and improve their chances of successful dissemination. \n\n\n View Biography\n \n \n \nLeon M. Tolbert received the Bachelor’s\, M.S.\, and Ph.D. degrees in electricalengineering from Georgia Tech. He worked at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL)\, OakRidge\, TN\, from 1991 until 2020 on electric distribution and power quality projects. He joinedthe University of Tennessee in 1999\, and he is currently a Chancellor’s Professor and the MinH. Kao Professor in the Dept. of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science.Dr. Tolbert isa Fellow of the IEEE and a Registered Professional Engineer in the state of Tennessee.He isthe deputy editor-in-chief of theIEEE Power Electronics Magazineand the publicationdepartment chair of the IEEE Industry Applications Society. He was the recipient of the 2023IEEE PELS Milan Jovanovic Award for Power Electronics Emerging Technology and 15IEEEprize paper awards. \n\nLeon M. Tolbert received the Bachelor’s\, M.S.\, and Ph.D. degrees in electricalengineering from Georgia Tech. He worked at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL)\, OakRidge\, TN\, from 1991 until 2020 on electric distribution and power quality projects. He joinedthe University of Tennessee in 1999\, and he is currently a Chancellor’s Professor and the MinH. Kao Professor in the Dept. of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science.Dr. Tolbert isa Fellow of the IEEE and a Registered Professional Engineer in the state of Tennessee.He isthe deputy editor-in-chief of theIEEE Power Electronics Magazineand the publicationdepartment chair of the IEEE Industry Applications Society. He was the recipient of the 2023IEEE PELS Milan Jovanovic Award for Power Electronics Emerging Technology and 15IEEEprize paper awards. \n7. “What will the Next Frontier in Power Electronics Look Like?”\nMichael Harrison\nEnphase Energy \n \n \nThe 50-year history of Power Electronics has taken switched mode power converters frombeing a balance-of-system afterthought that got hidden away out of sight in some backoffice\, to a technology that is literally featured ‘center stage’ being discussed by the mostinfluential people on Earth.In my 2016 APEC keynote speech “The Future of Power Electronics Design” I predicted thatwe are heading for a future in which thetotal energy processed by power electronics willexceed the total global energy production and in this future\, a total overlap of theElectronics and Energy Industries will eventuate.All are encouraged to join this roundtable to discusswhat the next frontier in powerelectronics will look like\, what are the areas in which there is likely to be furthertechnological advancements made\, and more importantly what skills will be will best servea young power electronics engineer aiming to build a career in this future. \n\n\n View Biography\n \n \n \nMichael Harrison is currently employed by Enphase Energy in the capacity of Senior PowerElectronics Architect\, a role that focuses on the adoptionemerging power electronicstechnology to enable Enphase to maintain the position of leader in the fast-growing ModuleLevel Power Electronics Photo-Voltaic (MLPE-PV) market.His areas of technical interest include power semiconductor technology\, magneticsdesign\, digital control theory\, resonant power converter topologies\, and piezoelectricbased power conversion.He holds over 100 international patents and has published several peer reviewed technicalpublications and delivered related technical conference presentations on the topic ofswitched mode power conversion technology. \n\nMichael Harrison is currently employed by Enphase Energy in the capacity of Senior PowerElectronics Architect\, a role that focuses on the adoptionemerging power electronicstechnology to enable Enphase to maintain the position of leader in the fast-growing ModuleLevel Power Electronics Photo-Voltaic (MLPE-PV) market.His areas of technical interest include power semiconductor technology\, magneticsdesign\, digital control theory\, resonant power converter topologies\, and piezoelectricbased power conversion.He holds over 100 international patents and has published several peer reviewed technicalpublications and delivered related technical conference presentations on the topic ofswitched mode power conversion technology. \n8. “Communicating Like a Technical Leader: Writing and Presenting Engineering Work\nfor Business Impact”\nRenee Yawger\niDEAL Semiconductor \n \n \nStrong technical work is essential\, but the ability to communicate that work clearly andpersuasively is what turns analysis into action.This mentorship roundtable focuses onhow engineers can write and present their work in ways that resonate with business\,technical\, and executive audiences alike. Topics include framing engineering resultsaround decisions and tradeoffs\, structuring presentations to lead with insight rather thandetail\, and writing concise\, purposeful emails and documents that drive alignment.Through real-world examples and interactive discussion\, participants will gain practicaltechniques to improve the clarity\, impact\, and influence of their technical communication\,skills that are increasingly critical for engineers stepping into leadership roles. \n\n\n View Biography\n \n \n \nRenee Yawgeris Senior Director of Direct Marketing at iDEALSemiconductorand President of the Power Sources Manufacturers Association (PSMA).She leads global marketing strategy\, technical content development\, and go-to-marketinitiatives for advanced power semiconductor technologies\, with over 20 years ofexperience working alongside engineers and system architects to translate device-levelinnovation into system-level impact. She is an active contributor to industry publicationsand conferences. \n\nRenee Yawgeris Senior Director of Direct Marketing at iDEALSemiconductorand President of the Power Sources Manufacturers Association (PSMA).She leads global marketing strategy\, technical content development\, and go-to-marketinitiatives for advanced power semiconductor technologies\, with over 20 years ofexperience working alongside engineers and system architects to translate device-levelinnovation into system-level impact. She is an active contributor to industry publicationsand conferences. \n9. How Diminished Focus on Fundamental Science May Be Costing Creativity in Power\nElectronics.\nSudip K. Mazumder\nUniversity of Illinois\, Chicago \n \n \nPower-electronics industry often suggests that academiais not practical. While some ofthat is understandable\, in several cases\, it seems industry is seeking problem-specific skilland desires that the learning curve for a new student be low to reduce the overall laborcost. This fosters application-specific(practical) skills. While this is needed\, especially fora well-established field like power electronics\, the challenge is that\, given the finite timeavailable to the student researchers\, time allocation appears to have shifted graduallytowards primarilyacquiring practical skills and away from acquiring a solid foundation infundamental scientific knowledge. For instance\, while there are a multitude of papers onMPC in power electronics\, few students are focusing on calculus of variations\, which formsthe basis of such optimal control and provides the pathway for new synthesis; or\, studentsworking on active gate dynamics modulation of power semiconductor devices often rely onsimple analytical equations\, without understanding the fundamentals of the physics ofsuch semiconductor devices; or\, students working on problems in magnetics orelectromagnetics with sole reliance on available software tools or cookie-cuttingapproaches without having a deeper understanding of Maxwell’s equations and the physicsoffields and dynamics. These are just a few examples of a pervasive issue and often yield aplethora of incremental works with limited impact on broader technological\, scientific\, andsocietal advancements. With the advent of AI-based EDA tools\, there is agreater pressureto reduce the design cycle\, which\, in turn\, could potentially exacerbate the problemoutlined above. In this PELS roundtable\, I would like to have an engaging discussion withyoung as well as experienced personnel from academia and industry as to what can we docollectively to attain a balance between practical industrial needs without compromisingfundamental scientific understanding and the creative pathways for newer foundationaland impactful inventions. \n\n\n View Biography\n \n \n \nSudip K. Mazumder: is a Distinguished Professor\, Robert Uyetani Professor of Engineering\,and the Director of the Laboratory for Energy and Switching-Electronic Systems (LESES) atthe University of Illinois Chicago (UIC). He is also a joint appointee with the U. S. ArgonneNational Laboratory and is the President of NextWatt LLC. He is the Deputy Editor in Chiefof JESTPE anda Fellow of IEEE and AAAS. \n\nSudip K. Mazumder: is a Distinguished Professor\, Robert Uyetani Professor of Engineering\,and the Director of the Laboratory for Energy and Switching-Electronic Systems (LESES) atthe University of Illinois Chicago (UIC). He is also a joint appointee with the U. S. ArgonneNational Laboratory and is the President of NextWatt LLC. He is the Deputy Editor in Chiefof JESTPE anda Fellow of IEEE and AAAS. \n10. Practicing & Preparing to Have Difficult Conversations\nLauren Kegley\nWolfspeed (USA) \n \n \nEffective communication is at the heart of professional growth\, yet some of the most important conversations we need to have – whether addressing conflict\, giving feedback\, negotiating expectations\, or advocating for ourselves -are also the hardest to initiate. This roundtable will explore practical strategies to prepare for and engage in difficult conversations with confidence\, clarity\, and empathy. Participants will discuss real‑world communication challenges\, learn frameworks for structuring tough discussions\, and practice techniques to navigate emotionally charged or high‑stakes interactions. The session is designed for engineers at all career stages seeking to strengthen their interpersonal effectiveness and build lasting communication resilience. \n\n\n View Biography\n \n \n \nLauren E. Kegley\, Ph.D. works with global engineering teams to grow advanced semiconductor adoption with the goal of developing more energy efficient technology; her current focus is on electrified vehicles as a Technical Marketing Manager of Wolfspeed’s Automotive portfolio. Dr. Kegley is a senior member of IEEE with technical experience spanning the fields of reliability modeling\, power packaging\, root cause / failure analysis\, technical roadmap development\, and product line management. In her career\, Dr. Kegley has worked across multiple different research and product development programs including academic\, government\, and industry collaboration. She is a three-time alumnus of the University of Arkansas with a B.S. in Electrical Engineering\, MS in Microelectronics & Photonics focused on wireless communication systems\, and a PhD which developed package lifetime models for Silicon Carbide packages. As an active volunteer for inclusion and access to STEM fields\, she currently serves as the IEEE PELS Access\, Community\, & Engagement (ACE) Committee Chair\, Member-at-Large for IEEE PELS\, past chair of the IEEE PELS Women in Engineering (WiE) Committee\, and past chair of the University of Arkansas College of Engineering Dean’s Early Career Advisory Council. Dr. Kegley frequently collaborates with technical societies and academic institutions to offer professional development trainings tailored to support growth in the field of engineering and provide skills in communication\, confidence\, and leadership. Outside of her professional engagements\, Dr. Kegley loves to travel and sample the local cuisines of wherever she is visiting. \n\nLauren E. Kegley\, Ph.D. works with global engineering teams to grow advanced semiconductor adoption with the goal of developing more energy efficient technology; her current focus is on electrified vehicles as a Technical Marketing Manager of Wolfspeed’s Automotive portfolio. Dr. Kegley is a senior member of IEEE with technical experience spanning the fields of reliability modeling\, power packaging\, root cause / failure analysis\, technical roadmap development\, and product line management. In her career\, Dr. Kegley has worked across multiple different research and product development programs including academic\, government\, and industry collaboration. She is a three-time alumnus of the University of Arkansas with a B.S. in Electrical Engineering\, MS in Microelectronics & Photonics focused on wireless communication systems\, and a PhD which developed package lifetime models for Silicon Carbide packages. As an active volunteer for inclusion and access to STEM fields\, she currently serves as the IEEE PELS Access\, Community\, & Engagement (ACE) Committee Chair\, Member-at-Large for IEEE PELS\, past chair of the IEEE PELS Women in Engineering (WiE) Committee\, and past chair of the University of Arkansas College of Engineering Dean’s Early Career Advisory Council. Dr. Kegley frequently collaborates with technical societies and academic institutions to offer professional development trainings tailored to support growth in the field of engineering and provide skills in communication\, confidence\, and leadership. Outside of her professional engagements\, Dr. Kegley loves to travel and sample the local cuisines of wherever she is visiting. \n11. Navigating Organizational Structures for a Successful Career\nStephanie Watts Butler\nWattsButler\, LLC (USA) \n \n \nCareer and volunteering success are dependent upon an ability to navigate the company/organization structure\, including across organizational boundaries. Whether your goal is creating a company-wide initiative\, developing a new product\, achieving the next job promotion\, or being a productive volunteer – organizational savvy is required. Come join this table to learn what navigating organizations\, organizational boundaries\, company culture\, and influence networks are and why they are important.  We will discuss how you identify your organization’s key structures\, and how you leverage that knowledge for your success. \n\n\n View Biography\n \n \n \nDr. Stephanie Watts Butler’s successful career as a Technology Innovation Architect and R&D Manager required organizational acumen and leadership skills.  Her inclusive approach to innovation creation led to a broad range of semiconductor products\, manufacturing solutions and enabling technologies: including wide bandgap\, high voltage silicon\, isolation\, and advanced CMOS processes and packaging; Computer Integrated Manufacturing Systems; Advanced Process Control resulting in 17 patents and top 10 Google Scholar rankings for her topic areas. She has led company-wide initiatives\, joint supplier-customer development programs\, consortia advisory boards\, international roadmap sections\, and standards committees. Dr. Butler is the IEEE Power Electronics Magazine Industrial Deputy Editor in Chief\, founded the PELS Industry Committee\, active member of the WIE and ACE committees.  She currently serves on the APEC and WiPDA planning committees.  She is a Fellow of the AVS\, and a Senior Member of IEEE.  SWE honored Dr. Butler with their highest award\, the Achievement Award.  Dr. Butler also serves as a Menttium mentor and on the PSMA Board of Directors. \n\nDr. Stephanie Watts Butler’s successful career as a Technology Innovation Architect and R&D Manager required organizational acumen and leadership skills.  Her inclusive approach to innovation creation led to a broad range of semiconductor products\, manufacturing solutions and enabling technologies: including wide bandgap\, high voltage silicon\, isolation\, and advanced CMOS processes and packaging; Computer Integrated Manufacturing Systems; Advanced Process Control resulting in 17 patents and top 10 Google Scholar rankings for her topic areas. She has led company-wide initiatives\, joint supplier-customer development programs\, consortia advisory boards\, international roadmap sections\, and standards committees. Dr. Butler is the IEEE Power Electronics Magazine Industrial Deputy Editor in Chief\, founded the PELS Industry Committee\, active member of the WIE and ACE committees.  She currently serves on the APEC and WiPDA planning committees.  She is a Fellow of the AVS\, and a Senior Member of IEEE.  SWE honored Dr. Butler with their highest award\, the Achievement Award.  Dr. Butler also serves as a Menttium mentor and on the PSMA Board of Directors. \n12. “Topic”\n“Mentor Name”\n \n \n \n\n\n View Biography\n \n \n \n \n\n URL:https://www.ieee-pels.org/event/apec-2026-pels-mentorship-roundtable/ LOCATION:Grand Hyatt San Antonio River Walk\, 600 East Market Street\, San Antonio\, TX\, 78205\, United States CATEGORIES:Mentorship END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260325T073000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260325T090000 DTSTAMP:20260405T143413 CREATED:20260210T233247Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260210T233339Z UID:10000365-1774423800-1774429200@www.ieee-pels.org SUMMARY:From Doubt to Drive: Career Confidence for a Fast‑Changing World (PELS WIE Elevated Engineer Series) DESCRIPTION:Abstract – Transform hesitation into momentum in 60 minutes — this high‑impact session helps you clarify your leadership purpose\, measure progress against your own standards\, and embrace strategic risk‑taking so you leave with a focused\, personalized plan and the confidence to step into greater responsibility. Drawing from the speaker’s core lessons\, expect insightful stories\, practical prompts\, and a clear next step to accelerate your leadership readiness – you’ll gain simple\, repeatable habits to accelerate growth and celebrate each milestone. Walk away energized\, with a roadmap to build skills\, gather courage\, and make bold moves in your career. This event is open to all and is hosted by IEEE PELS Women in Engineering (WIE)\, IAS WIE\, and PSMA WIE. \nBio – Seema Bakshi is a Principal Engineer at USAA\, bringing over two decades of extensive experience to her role. She holds a unique position as one of only three Principal Engineers across the entire organization and is the sole Principal Engineer within USAA’s Property & Casualty division. Seema’s career began in software development in India before she relocated to the United States. Throughout her tenure\, she has successfully led significant architectural and transformation initiatives\, nurtured high-performing teams\, and consistently driven measurable business results. \nSeema has graced stages at prominent events such as the Grace Hopper Celebration and Guidewire Connections. She delivered a Women’s History Month keynote for Confluent and regularly facilitates Employee Inclusion Groups and technical/leadership sessions at USAA. A first-generation immigrant and a dedicated working mother of two\, Seema embodies resilience and empathy. Her lifelong passion for teamwork\, honed by captaining state and college soccer teams in India\, complements her professional achievements. Furthermore\, Seema is a certified IamRemarkable facilitator\, frequently conducting workshops to empower professionals in celebrating their accomplishments.   \nThis event is open to everyone\, please register by clicking the link https://bit.ly/49SoKnV. URL:https://www.ieee-pels.org/event/from-doubt-to-drive-career-confidence-for-a-fast-changing-world-pels-wie-elevated-engineer-series/ LOCATION:Grand Hyatt San Antonio River Walk\, 600 East Market Street\, San Antonio\, TX\, 78205\, United States CATEGORIES:Women in Engineering END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260325T101000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260325T104000 DTSTAMP:20260405T143413 CREATED:20260210T233601Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260211T210605Z UID:10000367-1774433400-1774435200@www.ieee-pels.org SUMMARY:Women in Engineering (WIE) Networking DESCRIPTION:Join fellow women engineers and allies for an engaging drop-in networking event at the APEC Hub in the Expo to celebrate innovation\, leadership\, and community in the engineering profession. This gathering offers an opportunity to connect with peers\, share experiences\, and discuss career growth within the power electronics industry. Please note: attendees must be registered for APEC to gain access to the expo hall where this event will take place (full conference pass not required – review the registration levels on the APEC website). This event is open to all and hosted by IEEE PELS Women in Engineering (WIE)\, IEEE IAS WIE\, and PSMA WIE. URL:https://www.ieee-pels.org/event/women-in-engineering-wie-networking/ LOCATION:Henry B. González Convention Center CATEGORIES:Women in Engineering END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260325T140000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260325T153000 DTSTAMP:20260405T143413 CREATED:20260210T233421Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260210T233421Z UID:10000366-1774447200-1774452600@www.ieee-pels.org SUMMARY:Empowering Engagement: Learn More about PELS Leadership\, Elevation\, & Volunteering DESCRIPTION:This session aims to open up a discussion about the multifaceted opportunities to volunteer and get involved within the IEEE Power Electronics Society (PELS). Together\, we will explore pathways for participation – including volunteer roles\, leadership positions\, and networking opportunities. Involvement in IEEE PELS offers a variety of network\,  professional and technical development opportunities to support your long-term growth within the Power Electronics community. Join the PELS Access\, Collaboration\, & Engagement (ACE) committee for an enriching conversation that paves the way for future contributions in the field of power electronics. URL:https://www.ieee-pels.org/event/empowering-engagement-learn-more-about-pels-leadership-elevation-volunteering/ LOCATION:Grand Hyatt San Antonio River Walk\, 600 East Market Street\, San Antonio\, TX\, 78205\, United States END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260407T150000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260407T160000 DTSTAMP:20260405T143413 CREATED:20250430T152201Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250430T152343Z UID:10000042-1775574000-1775577600@www.ieee-pels.org SUMMARY:TC 9 Monthly Meeting DESCRIPTION: URL:https://www.ieee-pels.org/event/tc-9-monthly-meeting-2/2026-04-07/ CATEGORIES:Technical Committees END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260414T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260414T113000 DTSTAMP:20260405T143413 CREATED:20260331T210937Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260331T211143Z UID:10000372-1776160800-1776166200@www.ieee-pels.org SUMMARY:Webinar: WBG-based Current Source Inverter: Design\, Analysis\, and PWM/Controls by Sangwhee Lee DESCRIPTION:Learn More URL:https://www.ieee-pels.org/event/webinar-wbg-based-current-source-inverter-design-analysis-and-pwm-controls-by-sangwhee-lee/ CATEGORIES:Webinars END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260421T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260421T113000 DTSTAMP:20260405T143413 CREATED:20260217T195008Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260217T195008Z UID:10000370-1776765600-1776771000@www.ieee-pels.org SUMMARY:Webinar: Dynamical Modeling and Control of the Flying Capacitor Multilevel Converter DESCRIPTION:Learn More URL:https://www.ieee-pels.org/event/webinar-dynamical-modeling-and-control-of-the-flying-capacitor-multilevel-converter/ CATEGORIES:Webinars END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260505T150000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260505T160000 DTSTAMP:20260405T143413 CREATED:20250430T152201Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250430T152343Z UID:10000043-1777993200-1777996800@www.ieee-pels.org SUMMARY:TC 9 Monthly Meeting DESCRIPTION: URL:https://www.ieee-pels.org/event/tc-9-monthly-meeting-2/2026-05-05/ CATEGORIES:Technical Committees END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260602T150000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260602T160000 DTSTAMP:20260405T143413 CREATED:20250430T152201Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250430T152343Z UID:10000044-1780412400-1780416000@www.ieee-pels.org SUMMARY:TC 9 Monthly Meeting DESCRIPTION: URL:https://www.ieee-pels.org/event/tc-9-monthly-meeting-2/2026-06-02/ CATEGORIES:Technical Committees END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260707T150000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260707T160000 DTSTAMP:20260405T143413 CREATED:20250430T152201Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250430T152343Z UID:10000045-1783436400-1783440000@www.ieee-pels.org SUMMARY:TC 9 Monthly Meeting DESCRIPTION: URL:https://www.ieee-pels.org/event/tc-9-monthly-meeting-2/2026-07-07/ CATEGORIES:Technical Committees END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260804T150000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260804T160000 DTSTAMP:20260405T143413 CREATED:20250430T152201Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250430T152343Z UID:10000046-1785855600-1785859200@www.ieee-pels.org SUMMARY:TC 9 Monthly Meeting DESCRIPTION: URL:https://www.ieee-pels.org/event/tc-9-monthly-meeting-2/2026-08-04/ CATEGORIES:Technical Committees END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260901T150000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260901T160000 DTSTAMP:20260405T143413 CREATED:20250430T152201Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250430T152343Z UID:10000047-1788274800-1788278400@www.ieee-pels.org SUMMARY:TC 9 Monthly Meeting DESCRIPTION: URL:https://www.ieee-pels.org/event/tc-9-monthly-meeting-2/2026-09-01/ CATEGORIES:Technical Committees END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261006T150000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261006T160000 DTSTAMP:20260405T143413 CREATED:20250430T152201Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250430T152343Z UID:10000048-1791298800-1791302400@www.ieee-pels.org SUMMARY:TC 9 Monthly Meeting DESCRIPTION: URL:https://www.ieee-pels.org/event/tc-9-monthly-meeting-2/2026-10-06/ CATEGORIES:Technical Committees END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261103T150000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261103T160000 DTSTAMP:20260405T143413 CREATED:20250430T152201Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250430T152343Z UID:10000049-1793718000-1793721600@www.ieee-pels.org SUMMARY:TC 9 Monthly Meeting DESCRIPTION: URL:https://www.ieee-pels.org/event/tc-9-monthly-meeting-2/2026-11-03/ CATEGORIES:Technical Committees END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261201T150000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261201T160000 DTSTAMP:20260405T143413 CREATED:20250430T152201Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250430T152343Z UID:10000050-1796137200-1796140800@www.ieee-pels.org SUMMARY:TC 9 Monthly Meeting DESCRIPTION: URL:https://www.ieee-pels.org/event/tc-9-monthly-meeting-2/2026-12-01/ CATEGORIES:Technical Committees END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20270105T150000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20270105T160000 DTSTAMP:20260405T143413 CREATED:20250430T152201Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250430T152343Z UID:10000051-1799161200-1799164800@www.ieee-pels.org SUMMARY:TC 9 Monthly Meeting DESCRIPTION: URL:https://www.ieee-pels.org/event/tc-9-monthly-meeting-2/2027-01-05/ CATEGORIES:Technical Committees END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20270202T150000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20270202T160000 DTSTAMP:20260405T143413 CREATED:20250430T152201Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250430T152343Z UID:10000052-1801580400-1801584000@www.ieee-pels.org SUMMARY:TC 9 Monthly Meeting DESCRIPTION: URL:https://www.ieee-pels.org/event/tc-9-monthly-meeting-2/2027-02-02/ CATEGORIES:Technical Committees END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20270302T150000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20270302T160000 DTSTAMP:20260405T143413 CREATED:20250430T152201Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250430T152343Z UID:10000053-1803999600-1804003200@www.ieee-pels.org SUMMARY:TC 9 Monthly Meeting DESCRIPTION: URL:https://www.ieee-pels.org/event/tc-9-monthly-meeting-2/2027-03-02/ CATEGORIES:Technical Committees END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20270406T150000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20270406T160000 DTSTAMP:20260405T143413 CREATED:20250430T152201Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250430T152343Z UID:10000054-1807023600-1807027200@www.ieee-pels.org SUMMARY:TC 9 Monthly Meeting DESCRIPTION: URL:https://www.ieee-pels.org/event/tc-9-monthly-meeting-2/2027-04-06/ CATEGORIES:Technical Committees END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20270504T150000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20270504T160000 DTSTAMP:20260405T143413 CREATED:20250430T152201Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250430T152343Z UID:10000055-1809442800-1809446400@www.ieee-pels.org SUMMARY:TC 9 Monthly Meeting DESCRIPTION: URL:https://www.ieee-pels.org/event/tc-9-monthly-meeting-2/2027-05-04/ CATEGORIES:Technical Committees END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20270601T150000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20270601T160000 DTSTAMP:20260405T143413 CREATED:20250430T152201Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250430T152343Z UID:10000056-1811862000-1811865600@www.ieee-pels.org SUMMARY:TC 9 Monthly Meeting DESCRIPTION: URL:https://www.ieee-pels.org/event/tc-9-monthly-meeting-2/2027-06-01/ CATEGORIES:Technical Committees END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20270706T150000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20270706T160000 DTSTAMP:20260405T143413 CREATED:20250430T152201Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250430T152343Z UID:10000057-1814886000-1814889600@www.ieee-pels.org SUMMARY:TC 9 Monthly Meeting DESCRIPTION: URL:https://www.ieee-pels.org/event/tc-9-monthly-meeting-2/2027-07-06/ CATEGORIES:Technical Committees END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20270803T150000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20270803T160000 DTSTAMP:20260405T143413 CREATED:20250430T152201Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250430T152343Z UID:10000058-1817305200-1817308800@www.ieee-pels.org SUMMARY:TC 9 Monthly Meeting DESCRIPTION: URL:https://www.ieee-pels.org/event/tc-9-monthly-meeting-2/2027-08-03/ CATEGORIES:Technical Committees END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20270907T150000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20270907T160000 DTSTAMP:20260405T143413 CREATED:20250430T152201Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250430T152343Z UID:10000059-1820329200-1820332800@www.ieee-pels.org SUMMARY:TC 9 Monthly Meeting DESCRIPTION: URL:https://www.ieee-pels.org/event/tc-9-monthly-meeting-2/2027-09-07/ CATEGORIES:Technical Committees END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20271005T150000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20271005T160000 DTSTAMP:20260405T143413 CREATED:20250430T152201Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250430T152343Z UID:10000060-1822748400-1822752000@www.ieee-pels.org SUMMARY:TC 9 Monthly Meeting DESCRIPTION: URL:https://www.ieee-pels.org/event/tc-9-monthly-meeting-2/2027-10-05/ CATEGORIES:Technical Committees END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20271102T150000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20271102T160000 DTSTAMP:20260405T143413 CREATED:20250430T152201Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250430T152343Z UID:10000061-1825167600-1825171200@www.ieee-pels.org SUMMARY:TC 9 Monthly Meeting DESCRIPTION: URL:https://www.ieee-pels.org/event/tc-9-monthly-meeting-2/2027-11-02/ CATEGORIES:Technical Committees END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20271207T150000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20271207T160000 DTSTAMP:20260405T143413 CREATED:20250430T152201Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250430T152343Z UID:10000062-1828191600-1828195200@www.ieee-pels.org SUMMARY:TC 9 Monthly Meeting DESCRIPTION: URL:https://www.ieee-pels.org/event/tc-9-monthly-meeting-2/2027-12-07/ CATEGORIES:Technical Committees END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20280104T150000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20280104T160000 DTSTAMP:20260405T143413 CREATED:20250430T152201Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250430T152343Z UID:10000063-1830610800-1830614400@www.ieee-pels.org SUMMARY:TC 9 Monthly Meeting DESCRIPTION: URL:https://www.ieee-pels.org/event/tc-9-monthly-meeting-2/2028-01-04/ CATEGORIES:Technical Committees END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20280201T150000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20280201T160000 DTSTAMP:20260405T143413 CREATED:20250430T152201Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250430T152343Z UID:10000064-1833030000-1833033600@www.ieee-pels.org SUMMARY:TC 9 Monthly Meeting DESCRIPTION: URL:https://www.ieee-pels.org/event/tc-9-monthly-meeting-2/2028-02-01/ CATEGORIES:Technical Committees END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR