NATE’s annual convention is known for its focus on companies and individuals involved with, or interested in, broadcast and telecommunications tower erection, service and maintenance. Recognized as a vital forum for those who design, engineer, construct, service and maintain broadcast and communications structures, NATE UNITE 2020 facilitates the exchange of ideas and experiences; the ability to actively participate in a variety of educational sessions; and provides a tremendous opportunity to revitalize and strengthen your company’s commitment to safety, while networking with peers, colleagues, technical experts and friends, all in one facility.
Three tracks of educational sessions will be featured in the 2020 educational session lineup; Administrative/Business, Technical/Engineering, and Women of NATE. NATE UNITE 2020 will host the following Educational Sessions on Monday, February 17.
Antenna and Cable Testing
- 2:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.
- Gregg Moffett | Applications Engineer | Bird
This session will focus on the importance and benefits of line and antenna sweeping. Both novice and experienced technicians will improve troubleshooting capability within RF transmission systems. Measurement and troubleshooting techniques of coaxial cables, antenna, measure match, and distance to fault will be discussed. VSWR and return loss measurements will be explained; both how to perform them and how they correlate to the amount of RF power getting to an antenna and, ultimately, end customers. This session covers basic installation practices and how to see where some problems may occur and why.
Top 5 Labor and Employment Risks You Need to Know
- 2:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.
- Michael Devers | Executive Vice President | ENERTECH
- Stephanie Kaiser | Partner | ENERTECH
This presentation highlights the top five areas of labor and employment considerations that the tower industry faces and how to manage through those risks. This presentation includes a discussion on social media use, random drug testing, key training areas to consider, and how current (and emerging) marijuana and cannabis laws play out in the workplace, including driver requirements, insurance, and medical use considerations. We will also discuss some common threads associated with the labor and employment risks being discussed along with new and emerging trends to keep in mind.
Understanding the Use of Synthetic Rope in the Tower Industry
- 3:45 p.m. – 4:45 p.m.
- Brian Bicknese | VP Safety & Training | Vertical Limit, LLC – A QualTek Company
- Caleb Messer | Division Director | GME Supply Co
- Terry Walker | CEO | U.S. Rigging Supply/Pelican Rope Works
Those attending the Use of Synthetic Rope in the Tower Industry session will leave with a greater understanding of regulations, standards, and best practices associated with the use of synthetic rope for rigging and material handling. The panel brings years of experience from manufacturing, distribution, and field use of synthetic ropes and will draw upon that experience in order to help simplify making the right decisions in the field.
Building a Respectful Workplace
- 3:45 p.m. – 4:45 p.m.
- Jill Kauker | Occupational Safety and Health Professional | Naval Health Clinic
A respectful workplace is inclusive of diversity and addresses conflict early and in a respectful manner. The achievement of a team supersedes the performance of any individual member, clear and realistic expectations are established and employees are treated with respect that creates a cohesiveness of an extended family. In this session, attendees will learn how to help their employees feel respected, safe and supported while increasing productivity, innovation and collaboration.
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