Coding for programmers [nerds] is fun, we should do it all the time [nights and weekends] and magically improve/learn new tech by osmosis. /s

I genuinely think this is how many people outside dev think.

To be fair, conferences are not always the best way to learn new things. It's variable depending on the conference, and there are some at the lower end that are glorified trade shows.

But for me, the obvious reason to attend is to network with other developers. Whether your company sees that as useful or not will probably determine if they spring for it.

I don't do a lot of development these days but IMO it's mostly a mistake to conflate conferences with deep-dive training (except to the degree that some conferences come with workshops attached). In addition to the networking/hallway track, conferences are useful to exposing yourself to new ideas, concepts, projects, etc. that you can then look into in greater depth after the event.

This thinking is at least as prevalent within dev as outside depending on what forums you frequent.

I was hired as the keynote speaker for two VMUG User Cons. I explained to the organizers that I'm more into business networking and not infrastructure networking. They exclaimed, "that's why we want you!" They wanted me to get their members connecting with one another and meeting new people.

So... yes even programmers need people. :)

That's why you should call yourself an engineer.