Student Engagement & Networking
The AMTA 2020 Virtual Symposium included a dedicated Student Day, providing an opportunity for students to connect with professionals, researchers, and peers in the antenna measurement community. The day was designed to foster engagement through targeted activities and networking sessions within the virtual conference environment.
Student Day was coordinated by Dr. Rick Vaccaro of the University of Rhode Island. Dr. Vaccaro oversaw the programming and ensured that student participants could make the most of the symposium's offerings, from technical sessions to informal networking opportunities.
Student Day served as a bridge between academic learning and professional practice within the antenna measurement field. For students attending the AMTA 2020 Virtual Symposium, the dedicated programming offered a structured introduction to the many ways that antenna measurement techniques are applied across radar, electromagnetic technologies, and communications systems. Beyond the technical sessions, the day created space for meaningful dialogue between students and seasoned practitioners, helping emerging researchers understand the real-world challenges and opportunities that define the industry. The virtual format, while different from an in-person gathering, allowed participants from across the country and around the world to join without travel constraints, broadening access to the association's educational mission and its commitment to the development of future professionals in the field.
The student-focused activities were designed to complement the broader symposium program, which included paper presentations, technical exhibits, and featured talks from leaders in antenna measurements. Students were encouraged to engage with exhibitors showcasing the latest products and services, giving them exposure to the practical tools and instrumentation used in modern measurement facilities. Networking opportunities within the virtual conference environment enabled participants to ask questions, exchange ideas, and build relationships that could support their academic and career growth. The coordination of Student Day ensured that the programming was thoughtfully paced and relevant, with attention given to the needs of students at various stages of their studies, from those just beginning their research to those preparing to enter the workforce.
The Antenna Measurement Techniques Association has long been dedicated to the development and dissemination of best practices in antenna measurement, and Student Day reflects that ongoing commitment to nurturing the next generation of engineers and researchers. Participation in the symposium provided students with a firsthand look at the collaborative spirit of the organization, where theory meets application and where continuous improvement in measurement quality is a shared goal. For many students, the experience served as an introduction to a professional community they might engage with for years to come, whether through future symposia, published research, or industry collaboration. The association's investment in student engagement underscores its recognition that the future of antenna measurement depends on fresh perspectives, new ideas, and the energy that early-career professionals bring to the field.
Why Participate
Student Day offered attendees a chance to:
- Engage with leading experts in antenna measurement, radar signature, and electromagnetic technologies.
- Explore technical sessions spanning near-field measurements, 5G applications, automotive radar, and more.
- Build professional connections with peers and established practitioners from industry and academia.
- Gain exposure to the broader work of the Antenna Measurement Techniques Association.
Student Registration
Student and retiree registration for the full symposium was available at a reduced rate of $125.00. Full registration included AMTA membership through December 31, 2021, providing ongoing access to the association's resources and community beyond the symposium dates.