As this year is coming to an end, I was asked to look back at the 2024 UCLS Conference. When I reflect on the conference, a level of anxiety comes to me that I thought was gone for good. Even though the conference went great, we typically are our own worst critics. I wish I had done a few things differently. Overall, a few things come to mind — some I cannot share because this is a PG-rated article.

All joking aside, I do want to start with a heartfelt thanks to all those who helped plan, present and participate in the conference. I had never planned a conference or been part of planning something to this magnitude. I had no idea how much work was needed to go into planning — presenters, meals, breaks, vendors, etc. A very special thanks goes to Susan for dealing with me and my crazy ideas and methods. She makes this conference happen every year. Thank you, Susan.

To all the presenters and vendors at the conference, thank you! This sometimes is a very thankless job. Presenting is not always fun and is often scary in some situations. Many of you were asked to present by yourselves and, thankfully, you said yes. The feedback that I received on the information shared was very positive and informative. My favorite part, still to this day, was watching Marty kick over a total station (totally not operational) and seeing and hearing the crowd gasp as they saw a very expensive total station hit the ground. I knew it was a set up and I still cringe every time I see him do this.

To the members of UCLS: Thank you for your attendance and participation at the conference. Continuing our education is critical to our profession. We are a small profession in Utah that is asked to do very critical jobs. I feel we excel at them. Some of the success in my career has been from the training and skills I have learned from members of the UCLS. 

For this next year, we have a new conference chair. His name is Sean Ireland. Sean has fully taken this new role very seriously and planned a great 2025 conference. He has been planning for months to make sure as much information and professional growth as possible can be offered at the next conference. I am very excited to see another great conference and to see all of my fellow UCLS members again. 

If you would like to help with the conference or any other committees, please feel free to reach out to me or any other board members, and we will gladly accept your help and expertise. 

Thank you again for allowing me to be a part of the UCLS and for your support.