BlogMobility
Blog • • 5 minute read

Why Should You Attend the Wireless LAN Professionals Conference? #WLPC

Why should you attend the Wireless LAN Professionals Conference? Camaraderie, Education, Friendship, Community and Collaboration are just a few reasons.

I recently had the privilege of attending the Wireless LAN Professionals Conference, an event that reconnects me with longtime friends and people I consider extended family. Held annually in Phoenix (several other WLPC conferences take place across the globe throughout the year), this gathering brings together professionals, experts, and Wi-Fi enthusiasts from places near and far to share insights, discuss emerging trends, and establish personal connections in the often removed and remote workspace of Wi-Fi communications. 

This conference is very different from most other technical conferences. This event spotlights people in the Wi-Fi community who have submitted technical presentations and had their presentations voted on by the overall Wi-Fi community as ones that the community wants to hear at #WLPC.  

The conference kicked off with an opening 30-minute session by JJ Minella addressing the reality of security breaches which set the tone for the days ahead. Network Engineers, and industry leaders alike took turns sharing their insights into the current state of wireless networking. Themes such as the impact of Wi-Fi 6, Wi-Fi 7 and the challenges of using a drone to do a site survey in a warehouse were all part of the conversation. Wes Purvis talked about AFC In-Depth, likening it to the channel use checking that a CBRS deployment must do in order to not interfere with Incumbents. The FCC rules about AFC were published the day after WLPC concluded and wireless engineers will now find out first hand if AFC is an arduous requirement that we've never had to consider with all previous iterations of the unlicensed spectrum. 

Key Themes of WLPC:

Diverse Content

WLPC always has a diverse range of sessions and workshops. From deep dives into the technical aspects of WLAN design and optimization to discussions on real-world deployment challenges, the conference caters to professionals at every stage of their careers. Seasoned experts generously shared their knowledge, providing invaluable insights into troubleshooting techniques, best practices, and the intricacies of managing large-scale WLAN deployments. 

Community

The interactive nature of the sessions fostered a sense of community among attendees. Networking opportunities were abundant, both in structured sessions and informal gatherings. Engaging in conversations with fellow professionals allowed me to gain perspectives from different industries, share experiences, and build connections that extend beyond the conference walls. The sense of camaraderie among attendees, irrespective of their level of expertise, is always remarkable. 

Hands On Labs

One of the highlights of the conference was the hands-on labs and demonstrations. These sessions provided a unique opportunity to get up close and personal with the latest tools and technologies. I had the chance to experiment with new hardware, test emerging software solutions, and engage in practical exercises that reinforced the theoretical knowledge gained from the various sessions. 

Soft Skill Development

The Wireless LAN Professionals Conference was not just about technical knowledge; it also emphasized the importance of soft skills in the networking industry. Sessions on effective communication, project management, and leadership in the context of WLAN projects provided a holistic approach to professional development. The conference recognized that success in this field requires not only technical expertise but also the ability to collaborate, communicate, and lead effectively. 

Key Takeaways:

Keynote: The Reality of Security Breaches, by JJ Minella.  JJ addressed the reality of security breaches, which set the tone for the days ahead. 

Network Engineers, and industry leaders alike took turns sharing their insights into the current state of wireless networking.

The impact of Wi-Fi 6E, Wi-Fi 7

Challenges of using a drone to do a site survey in a warehouse

AFC: Wes Purvis talked about AFC In-Depth

  • Likening AFC to the channel use checking that a CBRS deployment must do in order to not interfere with Incumbents.
  • The FCC rules about AFC were published the day after WLPC concluded and wireless engineers will now find out first hand if AFC is an arduous requirement that we've never had to consider with all previous iterations of the unlicensed spectrum. 

Why should you consider attending the next WLPC event?

Wireless Wireless Engineers from all over the globe upvote the content they want to see presented at each WLPC. The topics can range from lessons leard from years of doing site surveys to mental health self care tips and tricks. Attendees are deeply invested in the grassroots growth of the wireless community. WLPC is a way for presenters and attendees to give back to their wireless community with friendship and education.

The interactive nature of the sessions fostered a sense of community among attendees. Networking opportunities were abundant, both in structured sessions and informal gatherings. Engaging in conversations with fellow professionals allowed me to gain perspectives from different industries, share experiences, and build connections that extend beyond the conference walls. The sense of camaraderie among attendees, irrespective of their level of expertise, is always remarkable.

The Wireless LAN Professionals Conference continues to be a pivotal event for anyone passionate about the world of wireless connectivity. It brings together a diverse community of professionals, fosters meaningful connections, and provies a platform for learning and growth. As I reflect on my time at the conference, I am excited about the future of WLAN and the role it will play in shaping the way we connect and communicate in the years to come.   I hope to see you at the next WLPC conference!