RootsTech is just six days away! I am excited to attend in person for several reasons. This post is all about the things I look forward to at RootsTech and some tips for navigating the conference weekend.
Keynote Addresses
I’m sure you’ve heard me say that the keynotes are one of my favorite things at RootsTech. I love hearing the speakers talk about the importance of family, traditions, stories, etc. They inspire me and help me remember why I love genealogy and family history! The keynotes are at 11 a.m. each day on the Main Stage. RootsTech has some great keynotes lined up this year:
- Thursday: FamilySearch Internationa CEO, Steve Rockwood, and comedian Henry Cho.
- Friday: Lynne M. Jackson – a descendant of Dred and Harriet Scott; and Sony Photographer Nancy Borowick.
- Saturday: Emmy and Tony Award-winning actress and singer Kristin Chenoweth.
Amazing Classes
I love learning, and RootsTech offers a variety of classes on all kinds of topics throughout the weekend. My big tip for class attendance is to download the app and create a personalized schedule. Peruse the offerings, looking for things that fit with your education plan, or some of your favorite teachers and topics. Add at least two classes per hour to your schedule. That way if one is full, you can know exactly where to go and get there on time. I hope you will join me for my classes:
- “Climbing Your Branch of the FamilySearch Family Tree” at 4:30 p.m. Thursday in Ballroom H.
- “Writing Your Family History: 5 Strategies for Greater Efficiency” at 9:30 a.m. in Room 151.
For beginners and those interested in LDS classes, some of the options in my last article for virtual attendees are also being offered in person. Read about them here. If you are an experienced genealogist and you are looking for advanced class options, you might be interested in the Advanced Track sponsored by ICAPGen and the BCG:
Networking with Friends
The structure of RootsTech provides a lot of opportunities to network with friends. There is a long lunch break each day and the classes end before dinner, so consider scheduling some meals or other activities with friends you don’t get to see very often. If you want to connect with me, I will be at the FamilyLocket booth during lunch on Thursday and Saturday, and again during the Night at the Expo Hall event Thursday evening (see below). I’ll also be at the SLIG/UGA booth from 12-3 on Friday.
The Expo Hall
Speaking of the expo hall, this is the heartbeat of the conference. It’s completely free, so if you live in the area and aren’t attending the conference, think about stopping in for a day or two. You could spend all three days here and not run out of things to do. There are tons of vendors, activities, demos, and mini-classes going on all the time. Visit your favorite big-name companies and see what new-to-you companies have to offer. RootsTech is holding a “Night at the Expo Hall” on Thursday evening from 6 – 7:30. The theme is a masquerade, and they will have masks for you at the door.
Logistical Considerations
Check-in begins at noon on Wednesday. Checking in on Wednesday will ensure that you will be on time for the first classes on Thursday! Be sure to wear comfortable shoes as you will do a lot of walking during the event. Also, dress in layers – maybe short sleeves with a sweater. You never know whether the classrooms will be hot or cold and you want to be comfortable during your sessions. Bring a water bottle to stay hydrated and some packable snacks you can eat between classes. Also, my East Coast friends tell me that chapstick is a must – Utah is in the desert and those who are used to humidity really feel it! Most of all, come prepared to enjoy spending the weekend with lots of people who love genealogy every bit as much as you do! It’s a joy to hang out with fellow genealogists! I’ll see you there!
