2010 Chair Welcome

It gives me great pleasure to be able to welcome you to Atlanta for the 2nd Annual IEEE Energy Conversion Conference and Exhibition. As we hope this is now widely known, this conference is the merging of the PELS Power Electronics Specialist Conference and the Industrial Power Conversion Systems Department sessions of the IAS Annual Meetings. The broad size, appeal and quality of ECCE are a testament to the cooperation and strategic planning of both organizations. Since this is only the second year for ECCE, the conference is still in its transient state. We are making every attempt to give ECCE its own look and feel that will continue to attract attendees to the very important event for years to come. It is hoped that years technical program of around 675 papers from around the world and from many varying organizations will stimulate technical interactions and learning. We are very pleased to have a full program of a large number of oral papers, a much smaller number of poster papers, tutorials, rap sessions, meetings, and an exhibition. The plenary session has been planned to give members the view of industrial and thought leaders in our technology. It is my hope that we can all be proud of ECCE, as it strives to be the preeminent conference in energy conversion technologies. I would also like to welcome everyone to Atlanta, Georgia, USA, the so-called Capital of the South. Atlanta is home to companies such as Coca-Cola, CNN, United Parcel, and AT&T. In addition to industry, Atlanta is also a high tech center with the Georgia Institute of Technology, Emory University, and the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Visitors to Atlanta can experience a diverse and thriving cultural scene at the citys many theaters, museums, galleries, concert halls and family attractions. To enjoy Atlantas present, one must experience the citys past. From Atlantas role in the Civil War, to the Civil Rights movement, to the 1996 Centennial Olympic Games, Atlantas historical attractions promise both education and entertainment. Finally, I would like to thank all the members of the organizing committee, the program chairs and vice chairs, the program committee (over 1000 reviewers), the authors and the professionals at Courtesy Associates for their efforts in putting together this event. I hope that you enjoy this important technical meeting in a most timely and exciting field! Tom Habetler 2010 General Chair