2012 Western Regions Conference - It’s not too late to be part of it!
Money, money, money!
It’s a never-ending focus in our lives and in these economic times. We’re constantly balancing budgets at home, at work, and at school. So, deciding whether or not to travel to the upcoming 2012 Western Regions Conference comes under intense scrutiny.
Living in Alaska or in Hawaii, we scrutinize travel more closely than most. While many of you can drive or take a cheap hop to one of the regular region conferences, I have to fly. So, deciding whether or not to attend a SWE region conference because of travel costs isn’t a once in every five years decision. It’s every year and every conference. [Ever notice that the Hawaii members are at EVERY conference?]
And prior to 2006, I was with you:
- “It’s too expensive.”
- “I don’t have time.”
- “It’s not worth the cost.”
But in 2006, my section hosted the Region J conference and for the first time since I joined SWE, I felt connected far beyond Anchorage. What I gain by attending the region conference each year IS worth the cost. This is why I haven’t missed once since, even when my employer wasn’t able to support me.
I love the region conferences! And here are a few reasons why:
- There are a lot of women but not so many that I feel lost or overwhelmed. I am able to make personal and lasting connections.
- It’s nice to put faces with the names of the people I email regularly.
- I love meeting not only my peers, but the women before and behind me – the up and coming collegiates and the founding “mothers” who helped build SWE before me. I get to share my experiences and learn from theirs!
- I’ve made friends outside my region so if I ever have to travel solo for SWE or for work, I’m never really alone.
- The quality of presentations is excellent, on par with any other professional organization. I’ve participated in a few sessions over the years that I carry with me always. Other sessions let me know that our section is not alone in its challenges and triumphs and that a small, remote section can make a big difference.
- I’ve gotten the opportunity to meet and interact with SWE leadership at all levels. It still surprises and pleases me how accessible and willing to share our leadership is while at conferences, especially the Society President. And this year, I am really excited because our Society President, Melissa Tata, is attending only one conference this year – ours – taking the time and money to make the trip from Massachusetts to Hawaii – far longer than any of us West Coasters – and with a beautiful baby girl in tow!
- And while I have a job and am not currently looking for a new one, I really appreciate the career fairs. For me, it’s an opportunity to see what’s out there and to network with companies from across the region. Establishing connections now will help me when I am out looking for a job tomorrow.
- I feel like an important part of the whole, not just a member or section functioning in a vacuum.
Attending a SWE conference is not just a social opportunity, but a tool to help you grow. If you don’t make time to work on your career now then how will you know what to aspire to, what goals to set to advance along that path, and how to achieve success?
SWE is an amazing, supportive network of women. Women who want you to succeed and want to help you succeed – however you define your success! But you have to make the choice. Is the cost worth the rewards for you?
I hope to see you in Honolulu!
Melissa A. Branch, P.E.
Lt. Governor, SWE Region J
President, SWE Greatland
P.S. Need help with funds?
Talk to your section and Region leadership today!
Funds are available to help defray the costs! You can request up to $250 from Region A! Travel fund requests are due by Feb. 7th! See below attachments for forms.
Plus, leadership has great ideas on other fundraising sources.
Region A Travel Fund Application
Region A Travel Fund Procedure
