“My favorite part has to be the Technical Program – it really is a consistently outstanding technical program that annually highlights our industry in Alaska. We should be very proud of it (high kudos to Steve Teller here!). Also, I greatly enjoy the Trade Show and History Night. And, of course, I enjoy the chance to get together with so many old friends.” — Dave Hedderly-Smith “I eagerly look forward to the AMA convention and tradeshow each year. I anticipate catching up with old friends, visiting vendors that I have worked with over the years, and hopefully meeting some new people that may turn into new friends. There is such a diverse group of people who attend the AMA convention. I learn something every time I attend.” — David Szumigala “Networking!” — Wescott Bott What advice would you give those attending their first convention? “Attend the technical sessions, they provide an excellent snapshot of the state of the industry in Alaska over the past year. Also, introduce yourself folks on the trade show floor, it’s a great place to make connections and network.” — Miles Macdonald “If you are attending the AMA Annual convention for the first time, then thank you for attending and being part of this event that is part celebration, part educational, and part advocacy. Attend as many events within the convention as you can. Learn a bit about aspects of Alaska's mineral industry that you are not familiar with and may underappreciate. Come introduce yourself to me!” — David Szumigala “Engage with as many people as possible, ask questions, and attend the sessions that interest you. There’s so much to learn and many great connections to make.” — Lisa Cassino “Touch base with key people you want to meet in advance of the conference.” — Wescott Bott “Take in as much of the meeting as you can. Attend technical sessions. Attend luncheons (if the luncheon price is a bit too steep, feel free to listen to the speakers from the Trade Fair floor). Walk the entire Trade Fair and check out and engage the vendors that interest you. Go to History Night to learn about our industry’s legacy in Alaska. If a short course looks interesting to you, take it. Enjoy the social events. Meet people. This annual meeting really provides an opportunity to learn about Alaska’s mining industry. Take full advantage of it.” — Dave Hedderly-Smith “Talk to people! Just go up to anyone, introduce yourself and chat away. No one will turn you away!” — Dave Larimer “Go to all the networking events – shameless plug!! Seriously, that is how I met all the people I now call friends and family. In this membership everyone is approachable and will lend a hand, ear, or support so take advantage of their presence at the convention and introduce yourself to as many people as possible.” — Vanessa Larimer “Attend the technical sessions and join discussions on the presentations during the coffee breaks; attend all the networking opportunities, especially the Core Shack, Prospector's Tent, AMAPAC Icebreaker, Suppliers' Reception in the Trade Show, History Night, and Banquet” — Sue Karl “Take in all you can, especially the technical sessions and exhibit hall. If one is a student, training in geology, attend the Young Professionals Night. Contacts made here can lead to summer or permanent employment. Please attend the annual AMA convention to show your support for Alaska’s mineral industry.” — Joe Kurtak The Alaska Miner Fall 2024 18 Faces of Mining FACES, CONTINUED from PAGE 17 CONTINUED on PAGE 20
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