How to Prepare for RootsTech Connect 2021
by Shenley Puterbaugh
For the first time ever, RootsTech Connect is 100% virtual and 100% free! In past years, this conference has been the largest family history and genealogical conference in the world with around 30,000 attendees. As of February 9, 2021, 264,000 people had registered for RootsTech Connect from over 219 countries and territories. Because it is virtual, people from all over the world, who would not otherwise attend are getting the opportunity to participate. 11 languages are being offered including English, Spanish, Portuguese, German, French, Italian, Dutch, Korean, Chinese, and Russian.
If you have not registered yet, register here,
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
RootsTech Connect has advertised that it will be held from Thursday, February 25 to Saturday, February 27th. In reality, it will be starting at 9pm MST on Wednesday February 24th because it will be the 25th on the other side of the world. 4 hours earlier, at 5pm MST on the 24th, the online Expo Hall will be open. Over 150 classes will be available 24/7 for the entire conference and for days after. You will have the opportunity to chat with presenters about their topics and presentations. Keynote speakers will be the only live session and will include Nick Vujicic, Lorena Ochoa, Francesco Lotoro, Sharon Leslie Morgan, Sunetra Sarker, Erick Avari, Diego Lugano, bless4, Astrid Tuminez, Nick Barratt, Ladysmith Black Mambazo, Bruna Benites, Tita and Will Hopoate.
HOW TO PREPARE
If you have already registered, then you are probably wondering, what next!? Here are some tips on preparing for RootsTech Connect 2021:
Decide what topics you are most interested in learning more about. When RootsTech Connect begins, you will be able to search for classes based on topic, speaker, etc.
Branch out by watching classes on subjects you have never learned about or thought of.
Dive in by taking advantage of unexpected opportunities. You will be surprised by the ways you will be able to connect with other family historians and genealogists virtually. For example, Let’s Do Good Together is a component of RootsTech Connect that will allow people to come together and find family history projects and volunteer opportunities.
Clear your schedule and get comfy! Get your comfy clothes and a blanket, find a cozy spot and get snacks that you love. There are so many speakers and presentations! You won’t want to stop watching!
*Don’t forget to watch “Studies that Prove the Benefits of Family History” presented by Shenley Puterbaugh of Inspire Family History!
This image of many RootsTech Connect Presenters is courtesy of RootsTech Connect presenter, Penny Walters