Powerful Showing for Milhouse at #AABE Conference

Wilbur C. Milhouse III was part of a panel of entrepreneurs pursuing energy opportunities internationally.

The American Association of Blacks in Energy (AABE) recently held its 39th annual conference in Chicago, IL. The event convened more than 600 energy industry and community leaders to discuss issues, policies, and technology advancements impacting global energy resources. Milhouse Engineering & Construction, Inc. (Milhouse) made a strong showing at the conference with a branded mobile device charging station, career fair booth, and sponsored “Power Networking” reception. President/ CEO Wilbur C. Milhouse III, P.E., spoke on the “Beyond the Borders” panel.

Throughout the week, a Milhouse-branded charging station allowed attendees to stay connected, take photos and share the event on social media under the hashtag #poweredbymilhouse. The firm’s career fair booth also drew steady foot traffic.

Among other highlights was a Milhouse-sponsored “Power Networking” industry night following a panel discussion that featured Mr. Milhouse. Approximately 100 energy executives and community leaders gathered at the Chicago Hilton’s 720 Lounge for an evening of networking, cocktails, and conversation.

The atmosphere was electric as attendees shared their impressions of the day’s events and enjoyed the event’s signature drink, the “Milhouse Energy Kick”. A live band provided an up-tempo musical accompaniment and several Milhouse employees sporting orange polo shirts served as company ambassadors.

Attendees included representatives from a number of Milhouse’s utility clients: Atlanta Gas Light (AGL) Resources, Nicor Gas, ComEd, NIPSCO, and Ameren.

Earlier in the day, Mr. Milhouse spoke on the “Beyond the Borders” panel and addressed the risks, skills, and opportunities associated with pursuing energy projects abroad.

Mr. Milhouse shared his observations from frequent business trips to Nigeria, where power outages are commonplace. “It was very apparent that the things we take for granted in this country are the basics of what is needed in Nigeria,” he said.

In 2015, Milhouse Energy Services Limited, an affiliate of Milhouse Engineering & Construction, Inc., discovered coal in the village of Owukpa in the state of Benue, Nigeria. Ultimately, Milhouse plans to use the coal to produce electrical power starting with a 20-megawatt power plant in an area where lights are a luxury.

“Electricity brings opportunity. Nigeria has a lot of needs and a lot of opportunities. All things are possible,” Mr. Milhouse said.

Overall, the conference was a success for Milhouse, said Jeffrey Carroll, the firm’s business development manager for the gas sector. “It provided an opportunity to make direct contact and establish an immediate rapport, which would have otherwise taken multiple face to face meetings,” he said.