As an Airborne Sensor Operator Group (ASOG) member, you know how important professional development is, i.e., one reason you joined this network/group.
“Professional development is learning to earn or maintain professional credentials such as academic degrees to formal coursework, conferences and informal learning opportunities situated in practice. It has been described as intensive and collaborative, ideally incorporating an evaluative stage. There are a variety of approaches to professional development, including consultation, coaching, communities of practice, lesson study, mentoring, reflective supervision and technical assistance.” (Wikipedia)
One of my favorite professional development TTP (Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures), and there are many others, is attending Trade Shows & Conferences. When it comes to improving my professional knowledge and strengthen my career, there’s no substitute for a live learning event like a trade show or conference. By interacting with a roomful or exhibit hall of peers, asking questions of subject matter experts, and examining real-world applications of the information you’re focused on, it helps cement your knowledge & connections.
Yes, most trade shows and conferences are expensive, but if you’re able to get your employer to send you or budget your funds to attend, take advantage of it. Also, before attending have a plan of what you want to learn, experience and whom to connect with, this will maximize your investment.
Additionally, to go above and beyond just attending, try to become a guest speaker. Going through the processes and sharing your professional experiences and knowledge will double your knowledge & connections.
For reference, below is a list of events that relate to the Airborne Sensor Operator profession (Civilian, Public Safety, and Defense). If you know of any other events that relate to the Airborne Sensor Operator profession, please speak up. (Note: The list below was randomly selected from the internet based on their relationship to the ASO profession…ASOG has no connection with these events. Also, see the home page for additional events around the world and for the different industry sectors).
ICASDM 2018: 20th International Conference on Aerial Surveying and Digital Mapping
Dubai, UAE
April 9 - 10, 2018
Commercial UAV Expo 2017
Commercial Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Expo
24 Oct 2017 - 26 Oct 2017
84 days to go
Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino
Maritime Reconnaissance and Surveillance Summit
26 September, 2017 - 28 September, 2017
Rome, Italy
ISR & C2 Battle Management US conference
7 November 2017 - 9 November 2017
Bethesda, United States
Maritime Security & Coastal Surveillance Conference
28 November 2017 - 29 November 2017
Singapore, Singapore
ASOG Desk Editor (Patrick Ryan)
