If you have read this column many times, you have probably figured out that I am what might be called a “convention freak.” I think this is a true statement since I went to my first well driller’s convention in 1952. I don’t think I have ever been to a convention, what we now call a conference or a dealer day at a supply house that I did not enjoy. I haven’t added up the total recently, but I think I am approaching 150 of these types of events in my lifetime. I am of the opinion that if you really go to one of these things, you can’t fail to meet someone new who it will be in your best interest to know, see a new product that you might want to use or learn a new process, especially in drilling, that can be valuable to you.
Now, by really going to the event, I mean that you will attend seminars and workshops and really listen to what is being said, view the exhibits and, if you find someone you don’t know, introduce yourself and get to know him or her. You can’t just register, talk to your favorite pump distributor or rig manufacturer, and then head for the nearest bar. That is not going to the event; it’s what I call “showing up.” If you want to skip social events, that, in my opinion, is OK. Most cocktail hours have far too many people present to really enjoy the event, and many banquets tend to have mediocre food, windbag presentations and a very high cost. As a reader, you have the right to disagree with any of this.