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Going to aviation conventions is fun and educational. Going to one again is even more so.

 

In January I spoke for NBAA’s Schedulers & Dispatchers (hereinafter called S&D) for the 2^nd time. What a difference. The first time was before September 11, 2001. Attendees’ worlds have changed since then. As their first chairperson, Gerald Graham, told me, the three biggest changes since have been security, security, security.

 

This was the S&D’s 20^th.anniversary. They are proud of that, and rightfully so. The business has changed a zillionfold since then, and they have adjusted and grown successfully.

 

This week I speak for Women In Aviation (WAI) for the 5^th time. It will be a wonderful experience. The first time I knew only Dr. Peggy Chabrian; this year I expect to meet many old friends. This is WAI’s 20^th anniversary also, and the group has grown like a weed during those years, both in size and in importance to the industry. Their exhibitor and sponsor lists read like a Who’s Who in aviation. I’m looking forward to getting back. Those women—and some male members, now—are industrious and determined people. I like them.

 

In April, I speak for the Aviation Insurance Association (AIA) for the 4^th time at their annual meeting in San Francisco. They are a fun and hardworking group. One year a non-aviation friend met me at the Tampa Airport for coffee, then drove me to the AIA meeting. As luck would have it, the hotel had experienced some kind of electrical problem, and AIA members had been temporarily evacuated from the building. They were standing outside the front door when I arrived, and immediately pretended to be out front for the purpose of welcoming me. They made a big (and loud) deal of it, and my friend remains impressed to this day.

 

I really like conventions. You learn something new at each one and usually it’s something important and exciting. Meeting old friends warms the cockles of one’s heart and making new friends is equally special.

 

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