SWIS 2016 - Update
I like to take this post to acknowledge the hard work, time, caring and support of Ken Kinakin his staff and all volunteers of the SWIS 2016 event. You have no idea how much we appreciate what you do for us.
I didn't get a chance to watch all the presentations (I will when the videos hit the site) but spoke to hundreds of people and didn't hear one bad thing.
I believe this was my 5th time presenting at this event with the first in 2000. I've seen this go from a dream of one man to reality, to that same man stepping away due to time commitment, stress and lack of resources. I don't care who you are when you reach a dream goal and see it fall away it sucks and can be life changing. Most people quit.
After many years away (I believe a decade) this man decided to give it another run and I have GREAT respect for all those who stood with him again to take another run at it.
He's KILLED it the past two years!!!
I've built relationships with not only many of the presenters from 16 years ago, but so many more of the delegates who attended all those years ago.
I'm often asked who to trust in this industry. For me, one place I look are those who stood with this man over 15 years ago and still stand with him today. Many would call them experts, professionals, but I'd like to add they are loyal to the pursuit of passing on to help others become better. A professional who is proven to stay relevant in the industry and loyal over 16 years is a really good sign. A sign they are someone we can learn from. They are not just great examples to the new presenters added over the past couple years, but to all educators and professionals in the industry.
I'm still not sure how I became part of this group but will say I'm very honored and humbled and take it very serious.
Lastly and most importantly, I want to thank those who attended. Without you these events wouldn't happen, you drive us to do what we do, you remind us the industry is not going to hell, you inspire us to become better, you show us the industry is being made better because of your desire to learn.
Speaking for myself your support and drive to learn empowers me to work harder at what I do with elitefts. The environment and culture of SWIS is like no other.
By the time I got home there are many presenters I wanted to spend time with but didn't have time. I've always placed the delegates first, and always will. I will never forget what it feels like to save money to go to an big event like this and will never take that for granted. i have the highest respect for those who invest in themselves. Because of this I make it a high priority to be available as much as I can during these events.
I'm honored by all those who just wanted to say hi, those who asked questions and those who gave me their hand to shake and say thank you for their support.
If you had a question and I was too engaged with someone else or you couldn't find me during the breaks please feel free to PM me noting you were at SWIS. I will do my best to get back to you by the end of the week.
Thank you all for a great weekend and a special thanks to the man that held onto his dream even when he's was just barely hanging on,
Ken Kinakin, you are an inspiration to us all.
Dave Tate