How to balance personal work styles and create harmony in the workplace is the focus of the 28th annual Energy Generation Conference scheduled Tuesday through Thursday at the Bismarck Civic Center Exhibit Hall. The conference offers a public exhibitor showcase from 5 to 7 p.m. Tuesday.

"The energy industry's workforce is aging, and a lot of key people are retiring," said Fara Hentsch, Energy Generation Conference executive committee member and senior purchasing agent for Coteau Properties in Beulah. "Anytime you have age and background differences, you will have miscommunications."

Some of this is perception. Some is reality. Some just needs a little give and take, she said.

Conference keynote speaker Robert Wendover, managing director of the Center for Generational Studies in Aurora, Colo., will address the general session from 8:15 a.m. to 10 a.m. Wednesday and Thursday in the arena.

His company conducts sociological research and produces seminars on how different generations can better relate to increase bottom line and the organization's effectiveness.

Bismarck State College Corporate and Continuing Education coordinates the conference, which continues to draw record attendance. Last year, 2,069 energy workers explored the latest technology and equipment and registered for professional development sessions.

For more information, visit BSC's Web site, www.bismarckstate.edu/cce/energy, or call 800-852-5685.