As I write this, I recently returned from participating on the Natural Stone Institute Bluestone Study Tour of quarries in Upstate New York and Pennsylvania, and I am leaving in a few days for Marmomac in Verona, Italy. After the past couple of years we have had living through the pandemic, I consider myself a lucky girl. It certainly feels good to be “out and about again” – having my work adventures and reconnecting with industry friends, as well as making new ones!
I don’t want to sound like a broken record, but attending in-person industry events is definitely beneficial for both the mind and soul. Being with people who share common interests and issues makes you feel good and helps you learn. Personally, I walk away from events like the Study Tour not only being educated on a new quarry or update on an industry-related topic, but it is a brainstorming period where I either gain a new story lead or come up with a new topic for a podcast.