Sprinkler Age A Publication of the American Fire Sprinkler Association
In today’s competitive professional landscape, joining a trade association is one of the smartest moves you can make to accelerate your career. Whether you’re new to the industry or an expert with years of experience to sharpen your skills and expand your network, trade associations offer many opportunities that extend far beyond attending an annual conference.
Every year, thousands of professionals gather at industry-specific association conferences, trade shows, and expositions to connect, learn, and grow. These events offer more than just a few days away from the office; they are gateways to opportunities. Whether you’re a first-time attendee or a seasoned participant, the benefits of attending an association conference go far beyond the event itself. From elevating your professional profile to enhancing your resume and inspiring you to give back, association events are powerful catalysts for career and professional development.Â
One of the most immediate and valuable benefits of attending an association event is exposure. You’re surrounded by industry leaders, decision-makers, innovators, and peers at a well-organized conference or trade show. These are the people shaping the future of your field and they’re all in one place.
Engaging in sessions, asking thoughtful questions, and participating in networking events helps make your presence known. Many conferences also offer opportunities to speak on panels, present research or case studies, or even compete in industry-related competitions like AFSA’s Annual National Apprentice Competition. These moments place you in front of an audience that matters, helping to establish your credibility and expertise.
Even if you’re not presenting, simply being present is an opportunity to build relationships. Introduce yourself at breakfast roundtables, visit exhibitor booths, and follow up with connections you make. With every handshake or business card exchanged, you’re growing your professional network and increasing your visibility in the industry.
Additionally, many associations highlight attendees and contributors in their newsletters, websites, or social media. Sharing your conference participation online or being featured by the organization can lead to further recognition within your professional circle.
Attending a professional conference shows initiative, curiosity, and a commitment to staying current in your field. These are traits employers look for when reviewing resumes. Listing conference attendance on your resume demonstrates that you are actively involved in professional development. It shows that you value learning and are willing to invest your time in gaining knowledge and staying ahead of industry needs.
But you can take it even further. Were you a speaker or panelist? Did you help organize a session? Did you attend specialized training or earn continuing education credits? These are concrete experiences that go beyond passive attendance. They signal leadership potential, project management abilities, and subject matter expertise.
Expositions often showcase emerging technologies, products, and solutions. Getting hands-on experience or demos with these tools gives you practical knowledge that can set you apart from your peers. When you bring fresh ideas or new technologies back to your company, you become a resource and possibly a leader for innovation within your organization.
At association events, many attendees discover a renewed sense of purpose and connection to their industry, which often manifests as a desire to give back. Volunteerism can begin with simple steps like helping at registration, moderating a session, or serving as a room host. From there, it can grow into committee work, task forces, or even board service. Many associations actively recruit volunteers during events, recognizing that in-person engagement often leads to long-term involvement.
Volunteerism through an association not only gives back to your profession but also deepens your engagement and expands your network. Volunteers often gain behind-the-scenes access to industry happenings, build relationships with key leaders, and play a role in shaping the association’s future.
The true impact of attending a conference or trade show isn’t limited to the days you spend at the event; it ripples out in every direction. You return to your company with new insights, expanded networks, and fresh energy. You may discover a new career path, meet a mentor, or find yourself inspired to mentor someone else.
You also walk away with a stronger professional story. You weren’t just an attendee; you’re a contributor, a learner, a connector, and potentially a leader. This narrative enhances your personal brand and makes you more marketable in an increasingly competitive environment.
Attending an association’s conference, trade show, or exposition is more than a professional obligation; it’s a strategic move that can transform your career. From gaining exposure and enhancing your resume to discovering the joy of giving back through volunteerism, these events are powerful platforms for growth. So, the next time you attend an AFSA annual convention, don’t just sign up. Show up, speak up, and get involved! We look forward to seeing you at AFSA44 in Washington, D.C., October 15-18!
ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Meda Merritt, CAE, is vice president of membership and chapter development for the American Fire Sprinkler Association (AFSA). In this role, she manages its overall membership recruitment and retention efforts, supports the development and growth of AFSA’s chapters and affiliated state associations, and works to increase the association’s visibility within the industry and to related industries. Merritt obtained her Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Tulsa. She is a member of ASAE, and DFWAE, where she serves as chair of its IDEA Committee and a member of its Membership Committee. Merritt earned ASAE’s CAE certification in 2024 and was awarded DFWAE’s Wayne James Award for recruitment.