Attending a professional conference for the first time can be an exciting and slightly overwhelming experience. For any geospatial professional, the Esri User Conference (UC) in San Diego is an event you won't want to miss. With thousands of attendees from all over the world, this conference offers a unique opportunity to learn, network, and explore the latest advancements in GIS technology. While I’m not able to attend this year, I wanted to share some tips and insights to help you make the most of your first Esri User Conference experience.
1. Plan Ahead:
Start by reviewing the conference agenda and identifying the sessions and workshops that align with your interests and professional goals. The Esri Events app (for iOS and Android) is an awesome tool for planning your day. Creating a schedule in advance will help ensure that you don't miss out on any valuable opportunities.
Use your plan as a guide and don’t feel bad about missing a session.
The convention center is massive and with many overlapping sessions, it is impossible to catch everything.
2. Pack Accordingly:
San Diego is known for its beautiful weather, so pack comfortable clothing and don't forget comfortable shoes! Did I mention the convention center is massive?
Although Esri typically provides a canvas tote bag during check in, I find it helpful to bring a lightweight backpack to carry the essentials— notebook, pen, business cards, and refillable water bottle. A backpack is also great for stashing away all the stickers and other conference swag you’ll accumulate from the solutions and vendor Expo.
It's also a good idea to bring a portable charger for your electronic devices, as you'll likely be using them throughout the conference.
3. Engage and Network!:
The UC is a prime opportunity to connect with like-minded professionals in the GIS community. Take advantage of the networking breaks and evening social events to meet new people and expand your professional network—pre-conference is also a great time to update your LinkedIn if you're on the job hunt. Don't be shy to strike up conversations with fellow attendees, ask questions during sessions, and participate in interactive workshops.
Remember, networking is not only about making connections but also about sharing knowledge and experiences.
4. Explore the Expo:
The solutions and vendor Expo is a bustling hub of activity, where you can interact with Esri staff, explore innovative GIS technologies, and discover new tools and solutions.
Take your time to visit different booths, engage in product demonstrations, and ask questions. This is your chance to gain hands-on experience with the latest GIS software, hardware, and geospatial applications.
I personally like to write out a list of all the things that I have trouble with throughout the year and track down someone from the specific Esri product team for help.
The Expo is fantastic avenue to explore how others in your industry are applying GIS, perhaps in a way you've never thought.
5. Embrace Learning:
One of the primary objectives of the Esri User Conference is to enhance your GIS skills and knowledge. Attend a mix of sessions and workshops that cover a wide range of topics, including GIS best practices, case studies, and emerging trends. Take notes, ask questions, and engage in discussions to maximize your learning experience.
BONUS. Attend Special Events:
The UC offers a variety of special events, including social gatherings, athletics (5k and yoga), and vendor sponsored events.
Be sure to check the conference program for any events that catch your interest.
Definitely be sure to ask the vendors what they’re doing for dinner and drinks. Some of the greatest innovation happens on a cocktail napkin during happy hour.
While potentially overwhelming at times, attending the Esri User Conference in San Diego as a first-timer can be an incredibly rewarding experience.
By planning ahead, packing appropriately, networking with fellow professionals, exploring the expo, and embracing learning opportunities, you'll make the most of your time at the conference.
Enjoy the vibrant GIS community, gain new insights, and return home with a renewed enthusiasm for the power of geospatial technology. Just be sure to share what you’ve learned with the rest of us.
Photo: Me getting to meet Alabama legend, Dr. E.O. Wilson at the Esri User Conference and thank him for being an inspiration. Fun fact: he was telling me a story about an encounter he had with a cottonmouth snake in the Mobile-Tensaw Delta as this pic was snapped.
