First Time Attending?

With more than 5,000 people expected to attend, over 100 education programs to choose from, and close to 100 social events Sunday through Wednesday, AIHce can be overwhelming for first-time attendees.

Below are some tips to help make the most of your first AIHce experience.

Get a PAL

The first thing you’ll want to do is sign up to receive a PAL (Personal AIHce Liaison). This program allows new attendees (“First Timers”) to be matched with seasoned AIHce attendees (“PALs”). The goal is to help the First Timer network with fellow professionals and provide a better overall conference experience for all. Your PAL will share their knowledge and expertise about AIHce with you, including how to get more involved in all of the activities and opportunities the conference has to offer.

Participants in the program will be matched based on academic and/or professional area of employment (as selected during registration). Once paired, your PAL will contact you to set up a time to meet on site.

Prepare for AIHce

Check this website frequently for the most up-to-date information regarding education, events, things to do in Salt Lake City, travel information, and much more.

Plan Your Schedule

In addition to this website, there are several other resources available to help plan your schedule including the Advance Program (available online in February), the mobile app, and the Final Program (May). Don’t forget to make time to visit the Expo!

Network + Socialize

AIHce is more than just education. The conference gives you the opportunity to meet OEHS professionals from all over the world, catch up with old friends and classmates, and network with potential employers. When you aren’t in a session, take advantage of the wide variety of meetings and networking events that are offered.

Attend the First Timers Orientation

The first event you’ll want to schedule is the First Timers Orientation, taking place on Monday, June 1. It is recommended that you attend this with your PAL (if you have one). Read more about the PAL Program.

During this session you will:

Meet other first-time conference attendees
Learn how to effectively use the mobile app and the Final Program as your conference guides
Discover the best networking events that can lead to meeting valuable contacts
Learn about on-site resources and what they can do for you
Hear tips on how to maximize your overall conference experience

Participate in Passport to Prizes

Have your AIHce passport (found in your registration packet) stamped by all participating exhibitors for a chance to win some great prizes! This is a great way to break the ice and start a conversation with exhibitors to learn what they do and the products/services they offer.

Be Comfortable

Come to AIHce dressed to impress, but also make sure you’re comfortable to sit, stand and walk your way through the conference. The dress code of the conference is business casual.

Reflect + Follow-up

We value your opinion! Make sure you complete the evaluations for the sessions you attend so we can continue to adjust and provide programming that is valuable. In addition, remember to fill out the post-conference survey so we know what went well and what can be improved for next year, especially regarding first time attendees! The survey will be sent via email after the conference.

Follow-up with anyone you want to stay in contact with and/or wish to connect with further. Continue to use the mobile app to engage and connect with other attendees throughout the year!

We look forward to seeing you at AIHce 2015 in beautiful Salt Lake City!