Industry leaders and experts gathered for two days of educational sessions, networking, and discussions on the issues shaping the future of natural gas operations.

The Northeast Gas Association (NGA) welcomed more than 250 natural gas industry professionals to Saratoga Springs, New York, on October 26–27 for its 2026 Fall Operations Conference. The two-day event brought together utility representatives, industry experts, regulators, and service providers to share knowledge, exchange best practices, and explore the challenges and opportunities facing the natural gas industry.

The conference featured a comprehensive program of educational sessions covering a wide range of critical industry topics, including pipeline safety, operational leading practices, regulatory developments, energy affordability, and emerging issues affecting natural gas utilities and their customers.

[NGA President and CEO Welcomes attendees to the 2026 Fall Operations Conference]

Industry Leaders Deliver General Session Keynotes

NGA was pleased to welcome two distinguished industry leaders as this year's general session keynote speakers.

Mark Kahrer, Senior Vice President of New Jersey Natural Gas, opened Monday's program, providing attendees with perspectives from utility leadership on the issues facing the natural gas industry.

On Tuesday, Paul Roberti, Administrator of the U.S. Department of Transportation's Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA), delivered the conference's second general session keynote, offering attendees an opportunity to hear directly from federal pipeline safety leadership.

[Mark Karher and Administrator Paul Roberti join NGA's Alana Daly for Fireside Chats]

Together, the keynote presentations highlighted the importance of continued engagement among natural gas utilities, regulators, and industry partners as the sector works to maintain safe, reliable, and affordable energy service.

Educational Sessions Highlight Industry Priorities

Throughout the two-day conference, attendees had the opportunity to participate in educational sessions across three different tracks: 1) Damage Prevention & Field Operations, 2) Regulatory & Business Fundamentals, and 3) Pipeline Safety & Risk Mitigation. Classes addressed both the day-to-day operational responsibilities of natural gas utilities and broader issues shaping the industry's future.

Sessions explored topics ranging from safety practices and operational excellence to the evolving regulatory landscape and the importance of maintaining energy affordability for customers.

The diverse program provided valuable opportunities for participants to learn from industry experts, exchange experiences with peers, and identify practical approaches to challenges facing natural gas operators throughout the Northeast.

Beyond the formal program, the conference also offered opportunities for networking and collaboration, connecting utility professionals with the companies, organizations, and individuals supporting the safe and reliable delivery of natural gas.

[National Grid Vice President Caroline Hon discusses Energy Affordability in the Business Operations Track]

Thank You to Our Sponsors and Exhibitors

NGA extends its sincere appreciation to the sponsors and exhibitors whose support helped make the 2026 Fall Operations Conference possible.

Reception Sponsors

• Bascom-Turner Instruments, Inc.

• Picarro Inc.

• Precision Pipeline Solutions, LLC

Conference Sponsors

• Lanyard Sponsor: Campos EPC

• Registration Sponsor: Magnolia River

• Name Badge Sponsor: Ritmo America LLC

• Break Sponsors: Energy Worldnet, Interstate Integrity, and SGC Engineering

2026 Fall Operations Conference Exhibitors

• Bascom-Turner Instruments, Inc.

• CPI Controls

• Eastcom Associates

• Heath Consultants Inc.

• ITs

• Kerr Engineered Sales Co.

• KGM Gas

• Mulcare Pipeline Solutions

• Mueller Company

• Precision Pipeline Solutions, LLC

• Ritmo America LLC

• Storti Quality

• Viega

NGA also thanks the many speakers, moderators, attendees, and volunteers whose contributions made the conference a success.

Events like the Fall Operations Conference underscore the value of collaboration, professional development, and knowledge sharing across the natural gas industry. NGA looks forward to continuing these important conversations at future programs and events, and we hope you will save the date for the 2027 Spring Operations Conference, taking place April 1-2, 2027, in Saratoga Springs, NY.