In just a few short days, the Midwest Energy Solutions Conference will return to the Marriott Magnificent Mile in Chicago for its 24th anniversary as the region’s premier event for all things energy efficiency. With anticipated record attendance numbers and three days jam-packed with educational and networking opportunities, this year’s MES is sure to be one for the books.  

We pulled together not-to-miss events and collected tips from MES experts to get answers to the need-to-know questions surrounding all things MES. This year’s MES is projected to be by far the largest, so you’re guaranteed to make at least a few new acquaintances.  

Whether this is your first MES, or you’ve been here since the beginning, here are some tips to make the most of your conference experience.  

• Download the MES Conference App to see who else is attending and reach out to people ahead of time to schedule coffee or dinner chats (view dining recommendations from MEEA staff in the app!).  
• Take advantage of the networking receptions and the MEEA Nightcap to catch up and unwind with old and new friends.
• Pack plenty of business cards and cold weather gear before you head to Chicago.  
• Look for someone that you heard at a session and follow up on what they contributed.
• Look for pins that say, “First Time @ MES” or “MES Pro” and use that as a launching point to introduce yourself to someone new. And stop by MEEA’s booth in the exhibit hall to get your own pins.
• Don’t be afraid to approach someone lingering around the tall tables or a booth in the exhibit hall.
• Listen to Tips and Tricks from members and MES experts Kelly Mulder and Nathan Baer.

Networking Focused Events:

First Time Attendee Meetup – January 27, 2026, 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM - 7th Floor Right Alcove 

Kick off the conference with an opportunity to network with others who are attending for the first time and hear advice from experienced attendees.

Affinity Groups -  January 27, 2026, 4:15 PM – 5:00 PM – Various Locations 

In this structured networking time, you can find your community and join the conversation. Meet professionals with similar interests, identities, or roles within their organizations to find new connections. See our conference app for more details.  

• Small Businesses | 7th Floor Right Alcove
• Work/ Life Wellbeing | 7th Floor Left Alcove
• Emerging Professionals | Halsted – 4th Floor
• Women in EE | Clark – 4th Floor
• BIPOC in EE | Addison – 4th Floor
• LGBTQ+ in EE | Avenue – 4th Floor

Still have questions? Download the MES app and visit the conference website for all the MES resources you need. See you in Chicago!