WOCNext, hosted by the Wound, Ostomy, and Continence Nurses Society™ (WOCN®), is a premier annual event for healthcare professionals specializing in wound, ostomy, continence, foot and nail care. But WOCNext is more than just a conference; it’s a vibrant gathering where attendees can explore the latest research, connect with peers, and gain practical experience with new tools and techniques. The event brings together a community of clinicians, educators, researchers, and industry experts who share a common goal: improve patient outcomes and elevate modern standards of care.
Whether you’re eager to pack your bags for educational sessions, networking opportunities, or the chance to engage with cutting-edge products, WOCNext offers an invaluable experience for first-time attendees and seasoned professionals alike.
Are you thinking about attending WOCNext in person for the first time? Read a recap of personal reflections from previous first-timers—nurses Alicia Perez Varela and Maura Callahan—and find insider tips to help you make the most of your conference journey. You’ll feel more prepared and excited for your first WOCNext experience.
Why Attend WOCNext?
We gathered feedback from two first-time attendees and interviewed them in a recent WOCTalk podcast episode to learn what they found valuable about WOCNext 2024 in Cleveland. Alicia Perez Varela has been a registered nurse since 2017 and earned her wound care certification in 2021. She currently works at an outpatient advanced wound care and hyperbaric clinic and is also a member of the inpatient wound care team. Maura Callahan has been a bedside nurse for 8 years, with experience in long-term care, home care, and acute care in the progressive care unit as a charge nurse and training preceptor.
As passionate wound, ostomy, and continence care professionals, Alicia and Maura chose WOCNext for its reputation as an enriching, supportive environment. Many attendees find it an excellent opportunity to learn from industry leaders, explore trending products, and make lasting connections. Alicia, who heard about the conference from her coworkers, shared how they returned each year with fun stories, fresh insights, and actionable inspiration. Maura, a past virtual attendee, was drawn by the active community she observed online and wanted to get more out of the event by attending in person.
Top Tips for First-Time Attendees
Participating in WOCNext for the first time can be both exciting and overwhelming. Based on our conversations with Alicia and Maura, here are some practical tips that you can use to navigate the conference and fully embrace all that WOCNext has to offer.
- Take Advantage of the Buddy Program
It’s tough to attend an event when you don’t know a soul there! The WOCNext Buddy Program pairs first-timers with seasoned attendees, offering guidance and friendship. Both Alicia and Maura found the program invaluable. Maura met her buddy before arriving, giving her peace of mind knowing someone was there to answer questions and share ideas on where to start once the conference kicked off. Alicia mentioned that having a buddy helped alleviate nerves, allowing her to focus on making memories with her experienced buddy just a text away. It’s wise to sign up for the Buddy Program as soon as you register for the conference! Having someone to guide you can transform your experience, making it more enjoyable and manageable.
- Attend the First-Time Attendee Meet & Greet
WOCNext provides a dedicated networking gathering for newcomers with a comprehensive overview of the conference layout, schedule, and key sessions. Alicia appreciated the welcoming atmosphere, while Maura found that it gave her a clearer sense of direction and comfort for navigating the bustling conference space. Be sure to attend this gathering, as it’s an ideal way to start your conference journey with a solid foundation.
- Plan for the Exhibit Hall
The exhibit hall can be a bit intimidating just from its sheer size (WOCNext 2024 had more than 100 exhibiting companies!), but it’s a fantastic opportunity to explore new products and meet vendors. We recommend a quick walkthrough of the booths first to get the lay of the land, then diving deeper into specific vendors based on your priorities. Leave enough room in your luggage—or bring extra bags—if you’re keen on collecting product samples or brochures, as Alicia needed more space to bring everything home! “I felt like a kid in a candy store where I received complimentary products, learned about the different products on the market, and learned the benefits and instructions of use,” said Alicia.
- Present a Poster
Both Alicia and Maura presented research at WOCNext 2024. Alicia found it rewarding to share research and chat with others interested in her work, and Maura appreciated the chance to showcase the impact of a new program in her unit. Alicia’s research was a deep dive into end-of-life wounds, helping nurses feel more confident in their abilities to treat end-of-life wounds and distinguish them from pressure wounds. Maura reviewed the results of her skincare champion program and her efforts re-educating staff on treating the whole patient rather than only the wound in front of you. If you have a project you’re proud of, consider presenting at an upcoming WOCNext event. The first step is to submit an abstract to be accepted as a poster. The Poster Hall is a supportive environment where you can share your findings and gain valuable feedback.
- Get Interactive
For tactile learners, the conference roundtable offers dynamic discussions, practical insights, and opportunities to interact with information. Maura highlighted these roundtables as a favorite, as they empower people to implement new projects with your larger community. Networking events are another valuable component; the symposiums, as Maura explained, allow for both casual conversations and meaningful moments with peers. Don’t miss your chance to mingle at WOCNext. Introduce yourself when you take a seat at your next education session, as you’ll likely meet others who share your passion and interests. Maura and Alicia both forged lasting friendships with their Buddy Program partners and fellow attendees, many of whom they still stay in touch with.
- Explore the Host City
Beyond the conference, Alicia and Maura used their downtime to explore the 2024 host city of Cleveland, Ohio. No matter where future conferences are held, they recommend setting aside some time to discover local landmarks and unique sights. From famous attractions to museums, restaurants, and charming neighborhoods, exploring the host city can be a refreshing way to unwind after a busy day of sessions and networking. Prep by freeing up storage on your phone for photos. You’ll want to capture memories from both the conference and the surrounding attractions. Luckily, WOCNext 2025 will be held at a resort setting in sunny Florida! After insightful sessions, you can unwind by the pool and indulge in well-deserved relaxation in this perfect leisure escape.
Final Thoughts for First-Time Attendees
WOCNext presents the perfect blend of professional growth, personal connection, and industry discovery. Alicia summed it up nicely: “Attending WOCNext was an unforgettable experience. I learned a lot, made new friends, had fun, and elevated my practice to a new level.”
If you’re a first-time attendee, don’t worry about feeling out of place. WOCNext is designed to be approachable, with bonuses like the Buddy Program to guide you every step of the way. Many first-timers, like Alicia and Maura, found that nerves quickly transformed into excitement as they immersed themselves in the event and met dedicated professionals who shared their commitment to WOC care. Jennifer Werner had a similar experience at her WOCNext 2023 debut.
WOCNext has something for everyone. Come with an open mind, a rough plan for your schedule, and a willingness to grow with others. By the end of the conference, you’ll leave with new knowledge, friendships, and inspiration for your practice.
Looking forward to the next WOCNext conference? So are we! Save the date for WOCNext 2025, June 1–3, at the Orlando World Center Marriott in Orlando, Florida. It’s a great time to discover the latest in your field, build relationships with peers, and contribute to the future of the WOC space.
