I attend local FAAST events when my schedule allows. I have found some of the topics interesting to my current work and others are just interesting to attend to hear the information being put out (like the 'How to copy your IFR clearance' seminar). I especially like the ones that include local ATC and I take every opportunity to touch base with them and try to get a pulse on the local improvements and the timeline. And I am a Fed - but a white hatted one