To help new members navigate the resources NATA has to offer and connect them to solutions, the NATA Connection and Engagement Committee will host the NATA New Member Connection at 7 p.m. CDT May 22.
This free event is an opportunity for new members to learn about the committee and what comes with their NATA membership. This is also a great opportunity to get your NATA-related questions answered and meet fellow ATs from around the country.
Keep reading to learn more about five reasons you should attend the NATA New Member Connection and register today.
1. Become familiar with NATA member resources through an overview of the NATA website
With so many resources and benefits provided to NATA members, it can be challenging for a new member to learn about and take advantage of all that is available. During this event, the CEC will guide you through some of the most useful resources to new members and how to access them via the NATA website. Areas to be covered include the NATA Career Center, NATA Professional Development Center and NATA’s Professional Interests groups, which span from job setting to career level and interests. By attending this session, new members should feel much more comfortable taking advantage of NATA resources that will help them advance through the profession.
2. Learn about the Gather platform
Gather is an online community and networking resource for ATs where NATA members can engage online on by joining special interest communities, interacting on discussion boards, exploring volunteer opportunities and finding a mentor. During the NATA New Member Connection, you’ll receive an overview of the Gather website and learn how to access each of the benefits Gather offers for ATs.
3. Get acquainted with the NATA convention registration process & hear tips for first-time attendees
With the 73rd NATA Clinical Symposia & AT Expo rapidly approaching, this event will provide an overview of the registration process and important deadlines to be aware of regarding pricing and options for selecting in-person or on-demand access to educational content. Additionally, CEC members will provide some useful tips and advice for first-time attendees, including types of educational programming offered and strategies for networking as a young professional or new NATA member.
4. Have your questions about NATA and being a new member answered
Time will be allotted during the event for a Q&A session during which attendees will have the ability to ask any questions about the topics covered or anything else related to NATA. The registration form includes an area to provide your questions in advance. If time allows, questions can also be asked during the event in whatever way you are most comfortable, whether that is typing in the chat box or using your microphone. This event is an opportunity for new members to gain insight and knowledge directly from fellow AT peers who are familiar with NATA and member resources in an informal, collegial setting..
5. Meet and engage with the new NATA Connection and Engagement Committee that includes ATs from all over the country
The NATA Connection and Engagement Committee was newly formed in the fall of 2021 and is responsible for serving as membership ambassadors by engaging and linking ATs with the resources, information and support available from the national office. Additionally, the committee serves to facilitate information flow and feedback across the state, district and national levels. The CEC includes ATs who cover a diverse range of employment settings and experiences, and you’ll be able to meet the team and engage with the representative from your NATA district!