Networking at Anesthesia Conferences as an Aspiring Certified Anesthesiologist Assistant (CAA)
Networking is a crucial skill for anesthesia professionals, helping to open job opportunities and foster career growth. As an aspiring CAA, developing this skill early can give you a competitive edge in securing shadowing opportunities, connecting with faculty, and learning more about the field. Attending anesthesia conferences provides a unique opportunity to engage with professionals and peers in the industry.
Deciding Which Conference to Attend
The largest anesthesia conference for the CAA profession is the annual American Academy of Anesthesiologist Assistants (AAAA) Conference. The AAAA is the national professional organization that advocates for CAAs, and its conference brings together hundreds of CAAs and Student Anesthesiologist Assistants (SAAs) to network and enhance their clinical knowledge. This conference is typically held in March, with the location changing each year.
A smaller-scale conference is hosted annually by the Florida Academy of Anesthesiologist Assistants (FAAA) in Florida, usually in February. The 2025 event marked its sixth year. While many states have their own state academies, Florida stands out for hosting a dedicated annual conference. The majority of attendees, including CAAs and SAAs, are from the Florida region.
If you prefer a more intimate setting with a strong Southeastern presence, the FAAA conference may be a good fit. If you're looking for exposure to CAAs nationwide, the AAAA conference is the better choice. Regardless of which event you choose, attending with a strategic mindset is key.
Know Your Goals Before Attending
To make the most of your conference experience, it helps to set clear goals. Here are some common objectives that may resonate with you:
- Finding shadowing opportunities: Conferences provide a great chance to meet CAAs, SAAs, and hospital representatives. If you've struggled to secure shadowing, meeting someone in person can improve your chances.
- Securing an anesthesia tech job: Landing an anesthesia tech position can be challenging, as online applications often go unnoticed. Speaking directly with hospital representatives can increase your chances of finding job openings and making valuable connections.
- Connecting with program directors and faculty: Introducing yourself to faculty members helps them put a face to your application, showcasing your professionalism and initiative.
- Meeting current SAAs: Conversations with students from different programs can provide valuable insights into each school’s strengths and culture, helping you refine your list of target programs.
- Building a support system with other aspiring CAAs: Networking with peers allows you to share experiences, gain motivation, and navigate the application process together.
- Expanding your knowledge of anesthesia: Conferences offer the opportunity to learn from leading experts in the field, helping you stay informed on current topics and advancements.
Practical Tips for Effective Networking
Take initiative: Be proactive in introducing yourself and starting conversations.
Say your name twice: Repeating your name at the beginning and end of a conversation increases the likelihood that others will remember you.
Build rapport before asking for favors: If you're hoping to secure a shadowing opportunity, take the time to establish a connection first.
Engage with a variety of people: Meet practicing CAAs, anesthesiologists, program faculty, and fellow aspiring CAAs to maximize your networking experience.
Keep track of contacts: Write down the names and contact information of the people you meet so you can follow up and nurture those relationships.
Final Thoughts
Networking is more than just collecting business cards—it’s about building meaningful relationships. Attending a CAA-focused anesthesia conference is a valuable step toward your future career.
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Sarah is the founder of Aspiring CAA, a practicing certified anesthesiologist assistant, clinical preceptor, and assistant professor at a master of medical science program. With admission committee experience and an intricate knowledge of the admissions process, she helps guide prospective CAA students on their career journey.
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About this blog
Aspiring CAA is the go-to blog for expert advice on how to become a CAA. Founded by a practicing certified anesthesiologist assistant with extensive experience as an educator and former admissions committee member, Aspiring CAA provides aspiring anesthesiologist assistants with valuable guidance. Drawing on the founder's deep knowledge of the admissions process, the blog simplifies applying to CAA programs and empowers applicants to succeed.
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