Exciting Region 8 Conference Shaping Up

June 2004

Exciting Region 8 Conference Shaping Up
By Patrick Lufkin

After months of hard work, the STC 2004 Region 8 Conference is taking shape. The conference will be held on the campus of the University of California, Davis, on July 25-27, 2004.

With more than fifty presentations, a pre-conference leadership seminar, keynote speakers for each day, a Pavilion trade show, and an after-conference barbeque, this year's Region 8 conference promises to be one of the largest and most exciting STC regional conferences ever planned.

Charting a Bold Course

Organized under the theme Charting a Bold Course, the conference is geared to give technical communicators the information and skills they need to navigate in today's economy.

"We are really looking forward to the conference. Whether someone is just starting out or is a seasoned professional, we believe they will find what they need to help them flourish and prosper in the profession," conference director Eric Butow said.

Conference Sessions

Whether they are interested in content development, emerging technology and tools, managing projects and people, or advancing their career, attendees will find plenty to choose from. The full list of sessions can be found on the conference Web site at http://www.stcregion8conference.org/Program.htm.

Keynote Speakers

The conference will have a keynote speaker for each day.

John Dvorak -- John Dvorak, well-known book author, and outspoken PC Magazine columnist will speak at the Mondavi Center on the evening of Sunday, July 25. In keeping with Dvorak's popularity, tickets will also be available to the general public for his address.

Jared Spool -- Founder of UI Design, Jared Spool is a recognized pioneer in Web design and one of the most knowledgeable and dynamic speakers in the usability industry.

Andrea Ames -- STC President Andrea Ames is a technical communicator who specializes in user-centered product interface and online information architecture and design.

Pavilion

When not attending sessions, conference attendees can visit the Pavilion, a center for all non-session activities. The Pavilion will hold sponsor and exhibitor booths, product demonstrations, light food, and tables for gathering, relaxing, and meeting friends.

Free Résumé and Portfolio Reviews

In keeping with the theme of helping attendees advance their careers, the conference features free one-on-one résumé and portfolio reviews from working professionals. Those interested in receiving a review should sign up ahead of time on the conference Web site and bring their résumé or portfolio to the conference.

Pre-Conference Sessions

In addition to the regular sessions scheduled for Monday and Tuesday, Gold and Platinum attendees can attend pre-conference leadership sessions on Sunday, where STC leaders will share insights into the changing world of technical communication.

After Conference Barbeque

Of course, a conference should not be all work and no play. Throughout the conference there should be plenty of time to meet friends, network with colleagues, and enjoy the learning atmosphere on the campus of UC Davis. The conference ends with an after-conference barbeque.

Registration

Several differently priced packages are available, depending on how you wish to participate. Registration is quick, easy, and online at the conference Web site at http://www.stcregion8conference.org/Registration.htm.

More Information

For more information and regular updates, visit the conference Web site at http://www.stcregion8conference.org/