The ITC meeting is a fairly open format with the guest speaker as the highlight of the gathering. This purpose of this overview is to clarify the expectations of the meeting attendees and the speaker.
The ITC meeting is called to order at 7:30 with a few opening remarks about the status of the organization. Next, there is a round table introduction of all the attendees. The ITC attendees are composed of a broad cross section of the IT industry; managers of large corporations, educators, small business owners, vendor representatives, programmers, network and security managers, entrepreneurs in related industries, and people networking employment or business opportunities. The personal introductions are generally brief with a few members highlighting local IT and economic activities of general interest. The round table introduction presents the speaker with the opportunity to witness who is attending, from what aspects of the industry and ideas on how to tailor or emphasize their presentation.
The general outline for the speaker is to present their topic of expertise for about 30 minutes with 10-15 minutes of questions and answers. Speakers will typically begin with a high level overview of their subject area and then develop their specific areas of discussion. Topics of general interest are good openings for the speaker and will maintain wide participation. Developing specialized areas of the presentation is encouraged after the basics are covered and during the Q&A when particular ideas evolve. Some discussions can be quite dynamic with a lively exchange of ideas and opinions.
The presentation styles vary widely depending on the speaker's preferences and the best methods of disseminating information. Some of the best presentations have been when the equipment did not work and the speaker simply stood up and told their story about their work or their avocation. Slides, videos, transparencies, and handouts are helpful and appreciated, but not necessary. Please give your preferences before the meeting so arrangements can be made to set up. The most important aspect is the message and guaranteeing the speaker has an opportunity to deliver that message. We want the speaker to succeed in that delivery. After the presentation, the membership expects to understand the nature of the speaker's business and industry, their products and services, and the potential opportunities to network with the speaker. We also encourage the speaker to return for future ITC meetings.
Contacts for scheduling ITC speaking dates and further information can be made by contacting the Co-Chairs of the Speaker's Committee:
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