Reflecting on the 2024 SWPTA Conference

Reflecting on the 2024 Southwest Parking and Transportation Association (SWPTA) Conference, I am profoundly grateful for the Warren Reynolds Scholarship, which made my attendance possible. Without SWPTA’s support, I would not have been able to experience the wealth of insights, professional growth, and camaraderie this event offered. SWPTA has been a cornerstone of my career, from the education I’ve received to the connections I’ve made, and this conference was yet another invaluable step in that journey. I look forward to bringing the fresh perspectives and ideas I gained back to Seal Beach.

The conference also offered a chance to reconnect with so many familiar faces and friends. Seeing colleagues I’ve met throughout my career reminded me of the strength of the network we’ve built together. I felt fortunate to connect with friends and meet several new ones who have already made a lasting impact on me. The networking opportunities provided a space for candid conversations and the sharing of new ideas that will be instrumental as we navigate the evolving challenges in parking and transportation.

I was honored to participate as a panelist on “LPR: More than for Enforcement,” where we explored the diverse applications of license plate recognition technology. This session highlighted how LPR extends beyond enforcement, supporting community-focused goals and operational efficiencies—a vision that aligns perfectly with my commitment to creating a balanced, transparent parking program in Seal Beach. Engaging with other experts in the field underscored the value of LPR as a tool that, when used thoughtfully, can enhance both community relationships and municipal service.

Beyond my panel, I attended several other sessions that broadened my understanding of the industry’s direction and emerging trends. “Artificial Intelligence and Parking” presented revolutionary approaches to integrating AI in parking, while “Business Owners and Parking Managers” emphasized the critical partnership between municipalities and local businesses. “Combining Parking, Transit, and Active Mobility” reinforced the importance of a multi-modal approach to urban planning, a message that is becoming increasingly relevant for our work in Seal Beach. Each of these sessions provided insights that I’m eager to implement, while I also had the opportunity to attend several additional sessions that added further depth to my experience.

SWPTA’s networking events were exceptional, fostering an environment where professionals from diverse backgrounds came together to exchange ideas, share challenges, and offer mutual support. The conference’s costume party was a fun and memorable highlight, allowing us all to unwind and build camaraderie in a lighthearted way—a wonderful reminder of the importance of balance, both personally and professionally.

Reflecting on my journey with SWPTA, I am reminded of the organization’s pivotal role in my development. SWPTA’s educational resources, best practices, and industry connections have continuously strengthened my capacity to lead and innovate in Seal Beach. Attending this year’s conference wasn’t just about personal growth but about contributing to the broader progress of our field. The insights gained here, particularly around enforcement training and AI integration, will directly benefit our parking program, helping us meet community needs with a blend of safety, fairness, and customer service.

Given Seal Beach’s current financial constraints, the scholarship support was particularly meaningful. Without it, I would have missed out on these experiences that will undoubtedly enhance our services and support our frontline team members. For municipal employees like myself, attending conferences like SWPTA is vital; they provide us with the tools to stay current with industry trends, maintain strong professional networks, and continue improving our community’s services.

To the SWPTA Board and the Warren Reynolds Scholarship Committee, I extend my sincerest thanks. Your support has not only impacted my career but has also empowered me to bring back valuable lessons and inspiration to my team and community. Thank you for this incredible opportunity, SWPTA—I am honored to be a part of this community, and I look forward to further contributing to our shared goals and vision.