Suzanna Laurent
How long has it been since you updated the knowledge and skills you use to perform your work? If you lost your job right now, would your present skills be sufficient to land a new one? What have you learned recently about the emerging trends in technical communication?
Plan now to attend the world’s largest gathering of technical communicators in Seattle, May 8-11, to take advantage of the opportunities STC provides to learn new job skills, network with other technical communication professionals, and enjoy demonstrations of new products useful to your work. As STC members, we receive these and other benefits in a variety of ways, but it is up to us to take advantage of the many opportunities offered. You may be one of those members whose employer still pays for training at a conference such as this, but I’ve only experienced that a couple of times in my almost 20 years in the profession. Nevertheless, because I know the importance of keeping my knowledge and skills up-to-date, attending the annual conference is an investment I make in myself every year. I believe it helps to ensure my future!
The annual conference helps members further their education and expand their network of contacts. Over 200 technical sessions offer technical communicators — from entry level to senior management — opportunities to improve their technical skills and personal development. Session topics are categorized under Usability and Information Design; Management; Professional Development; Theory, Research, Education and Training; Tools and Technology; and Writing and Editing.
The conference offers many other opportunities as well. You can meet new friends, renew old acquaintances, learn about technological advances, review employment opportunities around the world, and try the latest software solutions to your work-related problems. You can hear motivational speakers and view the international competition award ceremonies. A special event is the Honors Banquet, where you can meet STC Fellows and Associate Fellows, and learn which communities won the coveted Achievement and Pacesetter awards for outstanding achievement. Optional events include post-conference tutorials and workshops and a variety of SIG meetings and networking luncheons. Sample Seattle’s hospitality by taking one of the special tours available. And, don’t forget to set aside time to visit the STC bookstore. In all, there are four days of educational presentations, vendor exhibits, and social events, including a full day of leadership training. You receive a copy of the conference proceedings as well. I often refer to my copies of past proceedings when seeking information on a particular topic.
When you add up the number of educational sessions you can attend, you will find the conference is an inexpensive way to further your education. The registration fee is also tax deductible. Continuing your education shows employers that you are interested in improving yourself, and that you take the initiative to learn more and stay up-to-date with emerging trends as you do your job.
Plan the sessions you want to attend well in advance, mixing personal and professional development topics to get the most “bang for your buck.” Delivered with the March 2005 issue of Intercom was a comprehensive conference program guide. It is a great source of pre-conference information. Also available at http://www.stc.org/52ndConf
is more information on sessions, tours, and events for the annual conference.
If you would like help getting support from your employer to attend this conference, see http://www.stc.org/52ndConf/PDF/getting.support.pdf for some great tips. No matter how you get there, you will return with information and ideas that will contribute to your growth and advancement as a technical communicator. Start planning now to take advantage of this marvelous opportunity offered by STC at its next annual conference!
Reduced rates are available to participants who register on or before April 22 via the Web, mail, or fax. The rates listed on the registration form are in U.S. dollars. Participants may also register onsite at the conference at a more expensive rate.
For me, this will be an especially memorable conference as I will be installed at the annual business meeting on Tuesday, May 10, as the Society’s 2005-2006 president. This is a goal I’ve worked toward for many years, and I hope you will be there to cheer me on as I take over the leadership of our international organization that provides unique educational and networking opportunities. I guarantee you that I can see some exciting things in STC’s future!
Suzanna Laurent is STC First Vice President and Associate Fellow from the Oklahoma Chapter.