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STC works with the Bureau of Labor Statistics to update the definition of technical communicator. This directly benefits STC members because corporate Human Resource departments use the BLS data to determine salaries. In general, the practices of large companies define the market and the market determines the typical rate of compensation for technical communicators. STC's work with BLS will impact your salary and push companies to recognize the value of technical communicators. RECENT VICTORY: The BLS has agreed to add a separate chapter for technical writers in the next issue of the Occupation Outlook and Handbook, an essential reference document for corporations. This means for the first time they acknowledge technical writers are distinct from other writers.
Members tell us the chance to network with other members is one of their most prized benefits. The chance to bounce ideas off one another, learn about job opportunities, and hear about project shortcuts and new software or tools is especially valuable. Your network includes face-to-face contact at the local and national level, as well as virtually through STC's 150+ listserves.
Members may download these special logos from the website to publicize your membership in the world's largest professional society devoted to technical communication.
See hundreds of job listings at the STC Career Center online 14 days ahead of everyone else. This opportunity is a special benefit exclusive to members. After two weeks, the listings are opened to the public. Online listings are searchable by geographic area and salary range.
Loaded with informative articles on successful job seeking strategies for tech comm, tips on conserving money, creating buzz about yourself, and more, this feature of the Members Only area of the website is a valuable resource for unemployed and underemployed members.
Members using the early bird registration rate to attend the Technical Communication Summit often save as much as $300 to $500 over nonmembers. STC gives members preferred pricing on:
Vendors such as MadCap Software and ComponentOne are among the corporations that offer discounts on products only to STC members. Discounts are typically 10–15%.
STC periodically presents offerings from corporate members who sponsor free, live Web seminars on hot topics. These are not sales pitches, but focus on emerging subject areas presented by experts who are closely involved in their development
Free Community Leaders Seminars — new in fall 2009, this series of webinars presents innovative STC community leaders sharing their tips, technologies, and techniques for developing more robust chapters and SIGs that serve members better.
STC has made significant progress on a Technical Communication Body of Knowledge (TCBOK) to define the profession and separate it from a trade. In addition to the benefit for the entire profession, the TCBOK work will result in the development of new tools and templates, and increase your ability do your job better!
STC international competitions are unique-your work in online communication and technical publications will be evaluated by professional technical communicators. Participation in this unique program benefits not only the TCs and companies who submit entries, but also those who evaluate the entries and provide high-quality feedback! It's a win for everyone!
Chapter Membership $25 USD – STC has 101 professional chapters located around the globe for those who enjoy the benefits of local programming and networking with a diverse focus.
SIG Membership $10 USD – STC has 22 special interest groups organized by topic for those who enjoy mostly virtual programs and networking with mostly a single focus.
Student Chapter Membership iis included in the Student Member price. STC has 28 student chapters located at colleges and universities primarily in North America.
STC offers disability, critical illness, life, and long-term care insurance to members through Mutual of Omaha (US residents only; availability varies by state). Pension plans are also offered in cooperation with Marsh Affinity Group Services, a leader in insurance program management.
Marsh Insurance: +1 (877) 249-7868
Mutual of Omaha: +1 (800) 624-5554
STC's annual salary database is based on the latest information from the US Department of Labor's Bureau of Statistics survey of technical writers among 1.25 million US business establishments in all 50 states, plus the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands, and Guam. Data are provided for technical writers in 84 industries, all 11 combined statistical areas and 159 metropolitan areas, and 12 non-metropolitan areas.
STC Online Buyers Guide & Consultant Directory $25 basic listing—Currently a PDF with active links to members' email and websites; the 2010 Guide will be presented in HTML. (Premium listings $50 and up)
STC Speakers Bureau-(coming in 2010) A database of speakers with details on experience, background, topics offered, fees, and availability. Access will be free and the prices for listings to be determined.
Processing fee for applications for Associate Fellow and Fellow honorary ranks $25.