Oklahoma Excavation Safety Expo April 1 – April 2, 2026 – OKC

This event reminder is sponsored by: Failure Prevention Associates, leaders in vibration analysis training

The must-attend event for excavators, contractors, and safety professionals to prevent accidents, stay compliant, and connect with industry leaders. Tickets are on sale now!

What is the OESE?
The Oklahoma Excavation Safety EXPO is the premier event for professionals dedicated to safe and efficient excavation practices. This dynamic conference offers expert-led sessions, in-depth workshops, and cutting-edge technology showcases to help you stay compliant, prevent accidents, and protect underground utilities. With hands-on training, industry insights, and valuable networking opportunities, it’s a must-attend event for anyone looking to elevate their safety knowledge and grow their impact in the excavation industry.

Join us on April 1 & 2 at the MetroTech Springlake Campus for two days of essential training, industry connections, and interactive learning. Plus, don’t miss our exclusive networking event at the Lively Hotel at OAK, where you can connect with fellow professionals.

Why attend the OESE?
GROW
Take your skills and knowledge to the next level with hands-on workshops, expert insights, and practical tools that will help you improve safety and efficiency in your excavation work.

CONNECT
Network with industry professionals, safety leaders, and peers who share your commitment to protecting people, property, and underground utilities.

GET INSPIRED
Hear from industry experts and thought leaders who will share real-world solutions and strategies to help you tackle challenges and lead with confidence.

ENJOY
Experience a day full of learning, collaboration, and engaging activities—all designed to make safety a shared success and leave you energized for the future.

Wednesday, April 1

8:00 AM

Event Start

8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Competent Person Certification Workshop (6–8 Hours)
This Competent Person Training covers OSHA trenching and excavation regulations, soil classification, protective systems, and inspection requirements. Includes all materials, and participants will receive Competent Person Certification upon completion.

8:30 AM – 11:30 AM

Line Locating Workshop
Learn the basics of locating and marking underground lines. Start in the classroom with locating theory and technology, then head outdoors for hands-on practice. Bring your own locator or use one provided.

Member Service Area Mapping
For General Members only: Learn to improve Service Area Mapping for accurate locate requests and reduced false tickets. This beginner-friendly GIS training uses QGIS to teach mapping basics and boost efficiency in managing your underground asset maps.

12:00 PM – 1:00 PM

Complimentary Lunch
Lunch will be provided for all attendees, including those in a morning workshop, the Annual Meeting, and the full-day Competent Person Training.

1:00 PM – 4:00 PM

Annual Meeting of the Membership
Join us for OKIE811’s 45th Annual Meeting, held with our Expo. Learn about organizational updates and connect with fellow members. Separate registration is required in addition to workshops or the Expo.

OKIE811 Certification Workshop – English
The 811 Certification Program, held after lunch for morning workshop or Expo attendees, covers Oklahoma’s Damage Prevention Act, Contact Center procedures, and Best Practices. Pass a 25-question test (80%+) to earn certification.
[ Registration Required ]

OKIE811 Certification Workshop – Spanish
El Programa de Certificación 811, ofrecido después del almuerzo para quienes asistan al taller o a la Expo, cubre la Ley de Prevención de Daños, los procedimientos del Centro de Contacto y las Mejores Prácticas. Requiere aprobar un examen de 25 preguntas.
[ Registration Required ]

6:00 PM – 9:00 PM

Networking Event
Join fellow attendees, exhibitors, and speakers for casual networking, conversation, and light refreshments.

Thursday, April 2

7:00 AM – 8:15 AM

Breakfast with Exhibitors
Enjoy coffee and breakfast while visiting exhibitor booths and making connections before the keynote.

8:30 AM – 9:45 AM

Keynote Speaker – Garrison Wynn (GENERAL SESSION)
Garrison Wynn blends Fortune 500 insight, comedy, and real-world experience to ignite safety culture. A bestselling author and explosion survivor, he’s delivered keynotes to NASA, Amazon, the NFL, and top industry groups.

9:45 AM – 10:00 AM

Break

10:00 AM – 11:00 AM

Excavation Readiness (GENERAL SESSION)
Learn how timely positive response, clear locate instructions, and proper ticket management improve excavation readiness and help ensure all utilities are marked or cleared by the start of work.

11:00 AM – 11:30 AM

Exhibitor Time
Dedicated time to visit exhibitor booths, explore products and services, and ask questions.

11:30 AM – 12:15 PM

• Advanced Ticket Submissions for Large Projects and Complex Worksites
  Master the nuances of complex ticket submissions, from large projects to remote sites.
• ROI of Mapping Underground Facilities – City of OKC
  Discover how the City of OKC uses GIS to map underground facilities and reduce risk.
• AI & Tech Tools in Damage Prevention
  Explore how AI and modern tech tools are already being used in construction and utility work.
• GIS SME Clinic
  One-on-one guidance from GIS subject matter experts.

12:15 PM – 1:15 PM

Complimentary Lunch

1:15 PM – 2:00 PM

• Pre-Excavation Meetings: Why They Matter & How to Lead Them
• Options the Law Gives You for Unnecessary or Excessive Locate Requests
• Communication Barriers within Crews
• Member Services SME Clinic

2:00 PM – 2:30 PM

Exhibitor Time

2:30 PM – 3:15 PM

• Could This Be You? Real Damage Scenarios Every Contractor Should See
• Positive Response, Watch & Protect, Required Comments
• Women in Damage Prevention – Leadership Panel
• Contact Center Services SME Clinic

3:15 PM – 3:30 PM

Break

3:30 PM – 4:00 PM

Closing Session + Door Prizes (GENERAL SESSION)
Final insights, key takeaways, and door prizes as we close out the event.

4:00 PM

Event End