Welcome to August, and to our Annual Meeting issue of ITE Journal! This is always an exciting time of the year where leaders from across the industry gather at our conference. If you’re coming to Orlando, then I look forward to seeing you join in that excitement!
Throughout my years of attending conferences from many different organizations, I’m always blown away by the technical content at ITE meetings. This is our chance each year to debate the relevant topics of today, share lessons learned, and advance the state-of-the-practice for those who may not have the time or resources to stay on top of all the current trends. I know there are some that come just to earn their PDHs or CMs (to maintain professional credentials), but in my eyes that’s simply a bonus value.
For me, I enjoy reconnecting with colleagues I only see occasionally—to enjoy the spoils of a city that I might not have visited much before—or to bury myself in a topic or issue that my daily schedule doesn’t allow me to do. There truly is something for everyone.
But not all ITE members attend the Annual Meeting. Of course, I’d love it if everyone did—and I think you’d all see the value in doing so—but in my time spent listening
to members across the globe the message is clear: the value of ITE membership is something different for everyone. Some enjoy engaging only at the Section or District level—either because their jobs prohibit them from traveling far, or their focus is only on local issues, and the international conference doesn’t benefit them. Some enjoy working on projects, committees, or specific activities, and are comfortable doing just that focused action. Some like to engage in the e-Community or read ITE Journal—but don’t have the desire to do more. And many, of course, will fluctuate throughout their career, and their level of involvement will be different depending on the environment they operate in.
These days, we have a lot of new and exciting opportunities for ITE members to try. Our Sections and Districts have so much to offer in terms of their meetings, events, and projects. Some are starting to dive deeper into community improvement volunteer projects—some are launching Safety Committees to help ITE fulfill its Safety Roadmap and Action Plan—many continue to hold highly successful luncheons on the latest topics—and each one of them offers unique local and/or regional networking opportunities with practitioners…your peers. Our Sections and Districts have endless opportunities for students and young members as well, which is a valuable time to engage in an association and build your network of colleagues and contacts.
Likewise, our international Councils and Committees are always looking to add new volunteers to their ranks, as they pursue the development of publications, webinars, and other technical products. Our Councils and Committees are a great place regardless of where you are in your career as we welcome the experience of senior executives working side-by-side with students and younger members.
So there truly is something for everyone. And regardless of where you fit on this scale, I hope you will consider at least giving the Annual Meeting a try. If you aren’t coming to Orlando, think about Detroit (2026) or Calgary (2027). The value of engaging at this annual event is second to none, and I just know that you’ll be thankful you did!