Registration is now open for the 26th Annual 501F and 501G Users Group Conferences, scheduled for February 15-20, 2026, at the Hilton Norfolk: The Main in Norfolk, Virginia. The meeting brings together owner/operators from across the fleets to exchange best practices, review current challenges, and engage directly with technical experts who support the F and G communities.
The Hilton Norfolk: The Main serves as this year’s host site. The property offers views of the Elizabeth River and sits within walking distance of the waterfront, the Scope Arena, and more than 50 restaurants. The venue includes a rooftop garden bar, curated art, an indoor pool, and a 24-hour fitness center. The Nauticus Maritime Museum is a short walk from the hotel.
Training regimen
This year’s program features 35 Vendorama sessions, an evening exhibition with hands-on demonstrations, and a full schedule of user and OEM presentations (Siemens Energy, Mitsubishi Power, and Power Systems Manufacturing (PSM), a Hanwha company). Hosted evening events encourage networking in a relaxed setting. Detailed agendas, daily schedules, and session descriptions are available on the registration website.
From the chairman’s desk, Brian Berkstresser notes a strong emphasis on user-to-user content. Several user presentations are already confirmed, and the board continues to welcome new contributions. Berkstresser encourages attendees to share photos, operating experience, or outage insights that can spark discussion during the conference.
The chairman also highlights the expanded vendor lineup, with 86 vendor slots filled and growing interest in Vendorama. He credits sponsors and exhibitors for their essential role in supporting conference operations including connectivity, meals, and evening events. Users are encouraged to engage with vendors, exchange business cards, and bring literature back to their teams because the expertise vendor partners provide often proves critical during outages.
The board extends its thanks to all participating users for their continued involvement throughout the year whether through presentations, forum activity, or discussions at the event. The group is also seeking new voices for future leadership roles and invites interested users to contact current board members.
The 2026 conference aims to deliver a productive week of technical exchange, peer learning, and community building for the 501F and 501G fleet.
Book hotel sooner
A dedicated room block at the Hilton Norfolk: The Main is available at the group rate of $189 per night before tax. Room types vary based on availability. Reservations can be made by phone at 800-445-8667 using Group Name: 501F & G User Group and Group Code: GUG. Guests booking online may use the dedicated reservation link or enter the group code on the hotel’s special rates page. The cut-off date for group-rate reservations is January 21, 2026 at 5:00 PM.
Once again, the link to register is here. See you in Norfolk!
