This month, I’m writing the WABE newsletter while on a freelance assignment in Australia at the FIFA Women’s World Cup, working for Broadcast Systems International. I’m based at the IBC in Sydney, integrating a system for the U.S. network Telemundo. This adventure abroad is causing lengthy separation from loved ones, but seeing new technology and different places has been an itch I feel so lucky to have had a chance to scratch.

Our committee met this past June in Vancouver for a planning meeting to get ready for the fall convention. However, nothing post-pandemic ever seems to fall seamlessly into place when it comes to logistics. When we arrived in Vancouver, our hotel was experiencing a labour dispute, and accommodating us was a challenge. Thankfully, Mitch Bunda from Corus Radio found us a boardroom, and with the natural adaptability of techs to pivot on a moment’s notice, we were able to cover almost all the elements needed to plan the convention. It was very encouraging to work with such a broad spectrum of technical folks who are connected to all kinds of media organizations in British Columbia. From Fairchild TV to film festivals to radio stations nestled deep in the BC interior, these people are keeping me motivated, and I feel our Vancouver convention will be a connective and engaging experience for everyone involved.

You will start seeing programming details coming up next month on the website and on social media for what I feel will be the most diverse program WABE has ever had, including many educational topics that affect us all in the media and entertainment technology industry. We’ll cover things like fundamental audio and video and AI in media, and our panels of industry experts will discuss where technology is headed as we look toward the future. We have three different tracks of papers, and we hope there is more information than you can take in. We are also partnering with SBE and will be providing space and a proctor for SBE certification exams to be written on the afternoon of November 28, 2023. Sign up to take an exam from the SBE website, and indicate “WABE Vancouver 2023” as the SBE chapter. Details on certification and exam preparation can be found on their website. This is a great opportunity to add that extra checkmark on your CV or resume, although we already know that tech folks never stop discovering and learning.

Registration is now open! There are so many ways to attend and participate in WABE this year. The Delegate Pass will give you the full conference experience. If your time is limited, we have single-day passes available as well. You might want to consider registering for our Monday Media Mixer, which is an excellent networking opportunity, or you can stop by on Monday or Tues to take in the Free Exhibit Hall. Check out WABE.ca for all the details.

Canada has unique regional challenges when it comes to working behind the scenes in media and entertainment technology. Teams and individuals often fly under the radar, but they are making big technical strides that are innovative and impactful for our industry. WABE has always highlighted these achievements during our Awards Ceremony. If you know someone who should be recognized and celebrated, please head over to our website and fill out a nomination form.

I am really looking forward to welcoming so many new faces this year at WABE in Vancouver from November 27 to 29 at the Sheraton Airport Hotel. We have been listening and taking the pulse of our industry. We are immensely encouraged by the support of our sponsors and exhibitors and by the dedication of our volunteer team preparing for this year’s convention. Watching the Canadian women’s team play soccer in Australia this week, I’ve learned that events like WABE can’t happen without the support of our sponsors and the dedication of conference participants who are pushing something forward, no matter the boundaries.

With my warmest regards,

Tessa Potter