Laura Ray

7 July 2025

How Attending Conferences Can Boost Your Skills and Career

If you’ve ever wondered whether attending a conference is worth the time and budget, you’re not alone. But for data professionals, the right event can be a game-changer, not just for your technical skills, but for your career trajectory. 

At Redgate, we’ve seen firsthand how events like PASS Data Community Summit help attendees grow, connect, and return to work with fresh ideas and renewed energy. Here’s why conferences are more than just a few days out of the office, they’re an investment in your future. 

 1. Learn What You Can’t Google

Sure, you can find documentation and tutorials online. But conferences offer something different: real-world strategies from people who’ve been in your shoes. Whether it’s a speaker walking you through a complex migration or a hallway chat that sparks a new approach to a persistent problem, the learning is practical, immediate, and often transformative. 

According to the PASS Summit 2024 Community Insights Survey, 97% of 2024 attendees said they walked away with actionable insights to apply at work.   

 2. Build a Network That Works for You

Your next mentor, collaborator, or even job opportunity might be sitting next to you in a session. Conferences bring together people who speak your language, literally and professionally. These aren’t just contacts; they’re connections that can help you troubleshoot, brainstorm, and grow long after the event ends. 

“My favorite thing about PASS Summit was networking with other folks in the same data fields and with the same complex issues. I got new fresh ideas on how to fix issues I was constantly plagued with.” – PASS Summit 2022 attendee

3. Get Inspired by the Best in the Business

There’s something powerful about hearing from people who’ve solved the problems you’re facing. Whether it’s a keynote that challenges your thinking or a breakout session that introduces a new tool, conferences can reignite your passion for your work and help you see what’s possible.

4. Bring Back Value to Your Team

When you attend a conference, you’re not just investing in yourself, you’re bringing back insights, tools, and strategies that can benefit your entire team. From new technologies to better processes, the ROI is real.

5. Stay Ahead of the Curve

The data landscape is evolving fast. Conferences help you stay current with trends, technologies, and best practices. Whether you’re diving into Microsoft Fabric, exploring PostgreSQL, or optimizing SQL Server performance, you’ll leave with knowledge that keeps you competitive. 

Ready to Level Up? 

PASS Summit 2025 is happening this November 17-21 in Seattle, and it’s not one to miss! With 175+ sessions, expert-led Learning Pathways, a Community Experts Clinic, and a vibrant community of data professionals, it’s the place to be if you’re serious about your growth. 

Register before July 16 to beat the price bump and secure your ticket to PASS Summit 2025. See you in Seattle!  

PASS Summit 2025 Early Bird pricing ends July 16!

Secure your tickets before the price bump!

Register now