How It Works

For Connect Pod Participants

1. Sign up during conference registration (register by November 2nd in order to participate in ANS Connect).
2. Get matched. About one week before the conference, we'll introduce you via email to your Connect Pod and Connection Guide.
3. Meet your pod. Your Connection Guide will coordinate an informal meetup during the first day of the conference—such as at the Opening Reception or over breakfast.
4. Stay connected throughout the conference. From there, your pod can decide what works best for you. Meet for coffee, grab lunch together, attend a technical session, or simply use the group to ask questions and make introductions.

There's no required schedule—the goal is simply to help you feel connected from the start.

For Connection Guides

1. Volunteer to serve as a Connection Guide during registration (register by November 2nd in order to participate in ANS Connect).
2. Receive your pod assignment. About one week before the conference, ANS will introduce you to your Connect Pod via email.
3. Coordinate the first meetup. Choose an easy, informal meeting point during the first day of the conference, such as the Opening Reception or breakfast.
4. Help make connections. Introduce participants to one another, answer questions about the conference, and, when possible, introduce them to colleagues or recommend sessions and events.

Keep it flexible. You're not expected to spend the conference with your pod. A few introductions, a planned meetup, and occasional check-ins can go a long way toward helping attendees feel welcome and connected.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many people are in a Connect Pod?

Most pods will include one Connection Guide and 3–5 participants. Final counts will depend on the number of participants.

Do I have to attend every activity with my pod?

No. ANS Connect is designed to be flexible. The initial meetup is encouraged, and after that you can participate as your schedule allows.

Can I participate if I've attended an ANS meeting before?

Absolutely. ANS Connect is open to anyone looking to meet new people and expand their professional network.

How will we communicate?

ANS will introduce your pod by email approximately one week before the conference. From there, your pod can decide how you'd like to stay in touch during the meeting.

Is this a new program?

Yes! We’re piloting ANS Connect for the 2026 Winter Conference. We’ll send out a post-conference survey to gather feedback and ideas.