The Bottom Line – Keep Learning!
In this economy, successful businesses and organizations take nothing for granted. Travel and training budgets are carefully scrutinized, and opportunities are weighed in terms of which can generate the greatest return on investment. These decisions can be tough, but they're just good business.
The following statement by the U.S. Department of Labor regarding continuing education for those immersed in scientific research is particularly important:
"Continuing training is necessary for workers to keep pace with current developments in their fields. It may take the form of on-the-job training or formal training, or it may consist of attending conferences or meetings of professional societies. Workers who fail to remain current in their field and related disciplines may face unfavorable job prospects if interest in their specific area declines." - From the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Career Guide to Industries, 2008-09 Edition, Scientific Research and Development Services
… all of which brings me to my point about belonging-to and participating-in a scientific society such as ours – the Association for Laboratory Automation (ALA).
Year after year, we host the LabAutomation Conference and Exhibit and deliver programming, hands-on access to new technologies and applications, and a worldwide network of diverse scientific professionals. From practical grab-and-go ideas to thought-provoking strategies for game-changing innovation, our five-day conference and exhibition has consistently provided value for short- and long-term success. 2010 will be no exception.
In fact, we just added a fourth plenary speaker – Kei Koizumi from the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy.
But don't take my word for it—do the math yourself, and you'll see that LabAutomation more than measures up as a promising and cost-efficient business investment. Read through the information on the LabAutomation2010 Web site; calculate the breadth and depth of topics addressed; analyze the caliber of the speakers and the companies they represent; consider the global reach of impact of other attendees; notice the degree of program personalization that's available; and evaluate the relevance to your personal and professional goals. The members of the Scientific Committee, ALA Board of Directors, and I are confident you will conclude that LabAutomation2010 is the best, most productive, most enriching way to begin the new year.
We also are happy to let you know that our menu of creative discounts and travel programs will stretch travel dollars for students, academics and professionals alike.
ALA exists to serve the educational needs of the scientific and technological specialists who make the lab automation community unique. LabAutomation2010 is the cornerstone of the ALA mission, the heart of its annual curriculum, and your best bet for an unbeatable bottom line.
My kindest regards,
Greg Dummer, CAE,
ALA Executive Director
