I had the distinct pleasure of attending the AUTM annual meeting for the first time last year. At the time I had transitioned into the field of Technology Commercialization from research about three months before and while I was tremendously excited about the possibilities that my new vocation and the annual meeting offered, I also had some trepidation at interacting with experts in the field—names that were institutions unto themselves.
My concerns dissipated almost immediately when I had a chance to be part of the discussion during a session on successful negotiation techniques. I was struck by the willingness of all present to address my questions as well as hear out my neophyte perspectives on various aspects of license negotiations. The commitment of colleagues to the professional development and success of their peers was very encouraging. I found this commitment present in all my exchanges at the conference, whether they were with fellow novices like me, or seasoned veterans both in the academic and corporate spheres. The sense of camaraderie and fellowship that I experienced at the annual meeting speaks to the professionalism and focus of AUTM, that I am sure has helped convince many others like me that they have found the career of their lives.
It was also interesting to know about the wide array of experiences and varied career paths that technology transfer professionals came from yet all shared the common thread of wanting to make a bigger impact than what their previous employment could allow for. There were researchers fresh out graduate school like me as well as former tenured professors who felt the need to combine their love of science with a desire to help bring forth the fruits of the scientific endeavor for the benefit of humanity; physicians looking to shift the healthcare paradigm through the use of technology, business professionals endeavoring to bring about the transition to the new economy and many others driven by their passion to make a tangible positive impact on the world.
As the New Year brings with it another AUTM annual meeting, I look forward yet again to learning more from my peers. The 2010 meeting will be of special significance for me as I will be have the singular privilege of sharing my own experiences with colleagues for the first time as part of a discussion panel on encouraging innovation and managing expectations. I look forward to seeing you all in New Orleans!