Exploring Genealogy at a National Conference

Genealogists – whether we’re beginners, intermediates or advanced – are never done learning, and we’re fortunate these days to have a number of ways to improve our knowledge and skills. There are classes, webinars, books, society presentations, podcasts, wikis, and so many more. But attending a national genealogy conference is an experience like no other.

Earlier this year, I attended RootsTech 2014 in Salt Lake City. What an incredible experience. People from all over the world attended, including the whole galaxy of genealogy “rock stars” from whom we learn so very much. Over three days, the educational sessions covered every technology-related genealogy topic I could imagine (and some I hadn’t imagined). Just walking through the vendors hall and chatting with the folks at the exhibits was an education in itself. And I met so many great people. I came home with renewed excitement and energy and a million new ideas.

In 2015, RootsTech and the Federation of Genealogical Societies (FGS) are having their national conferences jointly in Salt Lake City February 11th through the 14th. Here’s the description of the joint conference:

“The Federation of Genealogical Societies (FGS) and RootsTech are teaming up for a one-time special genealogy event at the Salt Palace Convention Center in Salt Lake City, February 11–14, 2015. FGS and RootsTech will share the expo hall, general sessions, activities, and more while each conference offers their own program of sessions. FGS sessions will focus on methodology, records, ethnic research, and migration for honing your research skills and society issues to motivate and inspire society volunteers. RootsTech will offer a program of technology-based solutions for the genealogy needs of both individuals and societies.”

Click here for more information about the conferences and registration.

FGS’s 2015 conference theme is Connect.Explore.Refresh. I think it captures well the benefits of attending a national conference. Connecting with other genealogists and family historians, while exploring new information and adding to our skills, results in our being refreshed and energized as genealogists.