>>> Their practical experience is only relevant when their lack of it gets in the way of answering practical questions. <<
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>Have to disagree with ya here. A session can be techically correct but impractical. I think the best speakers are those that approach it from a *real world* perspective. App design sessions are a classic case. Change orders, user signoff, etc are great ideas but not always practical. I want someone up front who can offer real alternatives and that really only comes from experience.

Spoken like a true engineer :-) (I am one - B.A.Sc. Mechanical). I'll play devil's advocate, and argue that you're neglecting the crucial role of pure research here. For example, if Dr. Dave was to give a blue-sky session in my area, I wouldn't miss it.

Pick up an issue or two of Scientific American. Not much practicality there, but the writing is superb, and you'll gain insight on technologies everyone will be using 5 to 10 years from now.