I have been attending ACEC Sierra Chapter meetings and events for many years (since the mid 1990’s to be more specific). I have served the Chapter in many roles: President, Board Member, State Director, and Grassroots Chair. I have represented small firms (Capitol Utility Specialists) big firms (Brown and Caldwell and Carollo) and really big firms (HDR). Most of you know I am a water/wastewater guy, so many times there have been meetings that I was not particularly interested in attending, but I went anyway. I truly believe that 80 percent of success is just showing up (famous quote), so I try and always show up. I want to be known as that guy who always shows up. I want folks to know that they will more than likely see me at these meetings if they want to talk, just say hi, or buy me a drink. In almost every situation, I was always glad I went. Why? Because there are many good reasons to attend Sierra Chapter Meetings that go far beyond the Dinner or Lunch topic. So, whether you want to know or not, I have compiled my Top 5 Reasons for Attending Sierra Chapter Meetings:
Networking, networking, networking. Connecting with my peers is critical to me on many levels. This is how I stay in touch with my clients, teaming partners, competitors and friends (some are more than one of these). The importance of this cannot be understated. So many positive things come out of networking that it is hard to cover all of them here. Suffice to say that we are in a people business and the best way to meet and get to know people is through networking. But you gotta show up to do it! When it comes to teaming on projects (and we do a lot of that!) I always prefer talking to people I know. The better I know someone, the better chance I will team with them. It is that simple.
Giving back to the industry. Attending meetings and events is also a way to give something back to the industry that has served me well (in both sickness and health). I get a lot out of feeling like I helped somebody no matter how small the assistance. I suspect many of you feel the same way. We all share some responsibility for keeping the consulting industry strong and relevant, and when you support others, you make a difference. And you can even call yourself a Mentor!
Learning new things. Okay, even water guys can learn new things about other types of infrastructure or management techniques or politics. Even transportation projects can be fun (or so I have heard). On the political front there is no end to the things you can learn through ACEC. An informed membership is good for all of us.
Socializing with my friends. Yes, I consider many of you my friends. It would be hard to belong to a “club” like ACEC for so many years and not make a few friends. Engineers and surveyors are great people, just ask us. And who needs an excuse to get out of the office? We all do better when we get away from the office for a bit, and I don’t just mean going home. Next time you attend a Sierra Chapter meeting, pretend you’re just hanging out with friends for a meal and some cocktails. You might just enjoy the meeting!
Networking, networking, networking. Yes, I am listing this one twice! That is how important it is. I can’t overemphasize this benefit. And the younger you are, the more critical it is. If you really want to be a rock star, try and meet at least one new person at every meeting. It is easier than you think.
So, what do you say? Will you attend the next ACEC Sierra Chapter meeting for some networking, socializing, learning and mentoring? If not, will you send others from your firm? Either way you benefit, your firm benefits and we all benefit. See you at ACEC!
