I told somebody on a Zoom call a few days ago that I had reached the 50/50 tipping point where half of my meetings and events are still virtual and the other half are now in person. I look around at the people attending in-person activities and hope they remain safe and healthy. I don’t worry about myself too much, as I am so happy to be back out in the world. Here are a few of my observations from a professional perspective, wondering what your experience has been and will be going forward.
The home office remains intact. That’s where the laptop, monitor, printer, files, desk and chair stay for the near future. When I need a place for meetings, I still have my Launch Fishers co-working membership. In fact, I have already used that for a couple of meetings over the past month or so. That is where I continue to get my snail mail, as it is my official Purdue business address. Everybody needs one, you know, whether there is much in the little metal box or not.
One set of events that I have missed in person over the past several months has been the IBJ breakfasts. Those that are a strategic fit with Purdue’s industry clusters (Technology, Life Sciences, Advanced Manufacturing and the like) are ones I attend annually. Typically, we have a sponsorship and attend with colleagues both internal to the University and external. The only thing I haven’t missed is the commute through rush hour Indy traffic to get to the downtown venue at the start time of 7:30 AM, grab a place to park, a cup of coffee, and start networking like I’m awake! That’s my real job, not watching the virtual program at my laptop with coffee from my home coffee bar (yes, that was added after a few WFH months). As the IBJ transitions back to in-person events, I will miss now-retired publisher Greg Morris. He and I had a running joke. As a frequent attendee, he knew that once he saw me, he could open the program! It won’t be the same without him!
The other events transitioning back to in-person are TechPoint (XTerns begin returning to their assignments this summer) and TechPoint Foundation for Youth. These crucial talent pipeline programs did amazing pandemic pivots during 2020 and now during the second half of 2021 are getting back to regular operations.
The XTern program places their collegiate participants in tech roles throughout IN. Purdue’s students are typically in high demand. We try to have a meaningful activity each summer (excluding pandemic summers) for participants. We have hosted XTerns at the Indianapolis Zoo, a Fever game, Sarah Fisher’s racing team headquarters, an info session on IP and employment law, and many other events and opportunities.
TechPoint Foundation for Youth offers K-12 STEM programming through the state of Indiana. As things shut down during early 2020, the organization quickly transitioned to online STEM activities in support of students, teachers and parents. Now as things are reopening, one of the main activities of the organization has been announced. Grants for robotics teams at all three levels—elementary, middle, and high school—are available for the coming round of competition across Indiana. The best of the best will be eligible to compete at the world level. Purdue offers sponsorships for these STEM activities and hopes to continue to do so in the coming years.
Other events opening up for in-person are Chamber of Commerce (OneZone in Hamilton County, Greenfield, and MCC in Anderson), although some are still virtual. I have been to breakfasts, luncheons, and a retirement reception. It’s so much fun to approach a room and hear the buzz of live voices as I walk in.
I would love to hear about your experiences as you make this transition. It’s true what they say–you don’t know what you’ve got until it’s gone. What is happening with your work, school, children, home life? Comment or be in touch in whatever way works for you. This has been such an experience and we are all learning from each other.
IN CLOSING
Thanks for reading. Looking forward to your comments and connections, both virtual and in person as my world is beginning to open up. Until next time . . . . stay safe and healthy and remember, this too shall pass. It is beginning to, I think!
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