This paper summarizes selected highlights from the 18th International Conference on Thermoelectrics held 29 August – 2 September, 1999 in Baltimore, Maryland USA. 302 attendees (including 55 students) from all over the world delivered 116 oral and 90 poster presentations. Key highlights include development of the first quantum dot thermoelectric structures, novel clathrate compounds and advances in micropiles (small thermoelectric devices). A short report such as this can not do justice to recent progress in thermoelectrics