Short Takes

The water utility industry is facing a defining moment, and IUCX is stepping up to meet it. FlowForward is IUCX’s newest initiative: a dedicated Customer Service Forum created specifically for the water utility community.

 Mark These Dates (Seriously. Right Now.) We know your calendar is crowded, but trust us, these dates deserve a bright red circle and maybe even a couple of exclamation marks.

⏳The clock is officially winding down. If you’ve been meaning to nominate a trailblazing organization or submit your own application for the 2026 IUCX Excellence Awards, the time to act is right now. The deadline is January 31, 2026, and no extensions are planned.

As we get closer to the IUCX Conference, we are currently preparing and taking applicants for the 2026-2027 LeadNext Class. Our program is designed to prepare future supervisors and managers for leadership roles in utility customer experience and operations. Why LeadNext? LeadNext combines structured learning, peer networking, and real-world exposure to help participants grow as leaders. The program includes monthly virtual learning, two utility site visits, and in-person eng

Cities and utilities across the country are transforming how they connect with residents—and your voice matters in shaping what comes next. Join the ENGAGE311 Annual Survey distribution list and take part in a nationwide effort to define  the future of 311 and citizen engagement. When the survey launches, you’ll receive a direct link to share your insights,    experiences, and priorities, the real-world input that makes this effort so valuable. Why Participate? The ENGAGE311

This year’s Billing & Payments Deep Dives will bring together utility leaders, CX innovators, and tech partners for a high-impact look at the strategies shaping the meter-to-cash experience.

As the temperatures drop and the lights twinkle a little brighter, we’re reminded of the unsung heroes working behind the scenes, our utility professionals. Whether it’s keeping the heat flowing during a winter storm or restoring power in the middle of the night, you keep our communities running when we need it most. We’re deeply thankful for your dedication, resilience and round-the-clock service. Your work doesn’t stop for snow, ice or holiday weekends—and we see you. But y

When we think about utilities, we often think of infrastructure: power lines, gas meters, water systems. But at the heart of every utility there is something more essential: people . And as winter sets in and energy use spikes, so do the challenges faced by customers who are struggling to keep up. That’s where Utility Customer Assistance programs become more than just a service; they become a lifeline. Across the country, utility companies are rising to the occasion, offerin

New DEADLINE:  January 31, 2026 Great news! We’ve extended the submission deadline for the  Excellence Awards  to give you  more time  to recognize outstanding programs and colleagues. Don’t miss the opportunity to showcase excellence across your organization. Submit your Project Applications and your Individual Nominations here:   iucx.org/awards . IUCX will notify the winners in February Thank you for helping us honor the incredible work happening every day. Let’s make this

The 2026 ENGAGE311 Awards brings together the brightest minds and most dedicated professionals in customer service, public engagement and government innovation. As the 311 industry continues to evolve, embracing digital transformation, artificial intelligence and data-driven service delivery, this coming years' awards will recognize the leaders and teams redefining what responsive, citizen-centric service can look like.  Key themes shaping the 2026 nominations include:  AI-po

As the year winds down, the inbox fills with one big question: How can we make the most of our remaining budget? Here’s a thought— spend it on something that will outlast the fiscal year. Registration is now open for the IUCX 2026 Conference , and it’s more than just an event. It’s a launchpad for bold ideas, smarter strategies and meaningful connections across the utility industry. If you’ve been waiting for the right moment to invest in professional development, this is it

April 13 ‑ 16, 2026 | Tampa, FL The countdown is officially on! We’re thrilled to announce that registration is now open for IUCX’s 2026 slate of events in beautiful Tampa, FL. Whether you’re ready to connect with industry peers, dive into relevant learning, or lead the conversation on utility‑innovation, this is your moment. Why Register Now? From April 13 ‑ 16, the IUCX community will convene in Tampa for multiple signature events tailored to utility professionals at every

Recognize industry brilliance. Nominations and applications for the 2026 IUCX Excellence Awards close on December 1, 2025 . Celebrate innovation by putting your company, or someone exceptional, on the radar. The IUCX Excellence Awards shine a spotlight on the most forward‑thinking, high‑impact achievements in the utility customer experience arena. Whether it’s an organization re‑engineering its meter‑to‑cash processes, a team driving digital engagement or a rising individual

Planning to exhibit? The IUCX Conference 2026  and ENGAGE311 floor plans are both open for booth selection. Pick your ideal location and position your brand for maximum visibility—prime spaces won’t last long. From April 14 ‑ 16, 2026 in Tampa, FL, IUCX brings together the utility customer experience ecosystem: utilities, service providers, technology vendors and CX innovators. If you’re vying to reach key decision‑makers, build brand presence and forge partnerships, this is

This crucial place is where the customer experience becomes real, the moment energy delivered turns into a bill. It’s also where complexity, frustration and opportunity intersect. Join the   IUCX 2026 Deep Dives  on  Billing & Payments  to move beyond the surface. Explore operational details, emerging trends, real-world innovations and the measurable impact of getting this right. What to Expect Emerging technologies & models:  Real-time billing, usage-based pricing, digital p

We’re turning 50  — and you’re invited to celebrate with us in style! Online registration launches soon for the IUCX 50th Conference...

The IUCX Excellence Awards  shine a spotlight on outstanding leadership in customer service within the utility industry. Whether your...

Behind every impactful conference is a team that turns vision into reality—and for IUCX 2026, that driving force is the IUCX Planning...

IUCX is built on a solid foundation, and at the core of IUCX Education Pillars are based on Business Process tracks, Excellence Awards...

9 Upcoming Events Scheduled During: April 13 - 16, 2026 Tampa Convention Center & Surrounding Area Executive Summit Key Account Forum...