Yichun Ding, CEM, DES, is a distinguished professional with ten years of experience in the meetings, events and exhibitions industry, specializing in data analysis, project management and trade show management. She has successfully managed conferences, trade shows, and events for a variety of international organizations and scientific research nonprofits in the Washington, D.C., area.
Yichun holds multiple designations, including Certified Digital Event Strategist (DES), Certified Exhibition Management® (CEM) and WSET Level 3 Award in Wines and Spirits. Throughout her career, she has consistently delivered high-impact global events and projects across diverse industries. A strategic thinker with an eye for detail, Yichun is committed to excellence in all aspects of her work and proudly identifies as a woman in STEM.
Yichun holds a Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Business, Economics and International Development from Iowa State University and a Master of Tourism Administration (MTA) from The George Washington University.
Yichun currently serves as Optica’s Exhibition Operations Coordinator. Here, she shares how she has benefited from earning the CEM designation and how she plans to use this knowledge to develop more environmentally friendly and sustainable activities.
How has the CEM designation helped you in your career?
Earning the CEM designation was a major career milestone, unlocking new opportunities and expanding my network within the exhibition and events industry.
Why is it important to maintain the CEM designation?
Staying updated and constantly learning is crucial in this industry, and maintaining the CEM designation is an excellent way to achieve this.
What made you want to earn the CEM designation?
Refresh my industry knowledge, connect with other professionals and learn from my peers!
What advice would you give to aspiring individuals who want to apply for CEM programs?
Keep an open mind and stay curious because the knowledge provided by the CEM program will accelerate your growth and help you stand out in your industry. You’ll be able to apply the latest trends and best practices directly to your role, bringing a fresh perspective to your workplace. Making connections through CEM Week can unlock new possibilities, mentorship and valuable partnerships.
How did you start your career in this industry?
Long story short! I have always had a passion for working with people, which led me to explore how to bring them together. In college, I majored in Agricultural Economics and Life Sciences and minored in Event Management and Meeting Planning. Although this may seem like an unusual combination, my involvement in organizing international cross-cultural events, music festivals and sporting events sparked my lasting interest in the world of events.
My passion for event management never faded and I eventually studied for a Masters in Events and Sustainable Destination Management. From there I started moving from agriculture and life sciences to the exhibitions and events industry. Now I work for a science nonprofit in Washington, D.C., running exhibitions and sponsored events around the world.
How can you make a difference in your shows or work with clients by applying the knowledge gained through earning the CEM designation?
I am always keen to incorporate sustainable best practices into exhibitions. I continue to develop an environmental strategy for our show, including researching and sourcing sustainable materials for conference bags and lanyards, minimizing single-use plastics at the show, and recommending digital solutions to reduce printed materials and signage.
What did you do or implement immediately after receiving your CEM?
I quickly applied everything I learned from the CEM learning program to improve supplier relations and show regulatory best practices, streamline operations, and enhance the overall show experience.
What do you like most about the CEM study program?
What I love most about the CEM learning program is the opportunity to learn from top industry professionals and gain insights from their experience. Their expertise provided valuable knowledge and enhanced my understanding of the industry. Additionally, the program facilitated connections with other participants, allowing me to build a network of peers who share similar passions and challenges in the industry.
This collaborative environment encourages the exchange of ideas and best practices, enriching my learning experience and motivating me to apply new concepts in my work. The combination of expert guidance and peer interaction makes the CEM study program a truly rewarding experience.
What’s one thing most people don’t know about you?
I’m a world traveler and wine lover. Also, I am a life member of the “Anti-cilantro club.” Wine tasting? I’m there. coriander? Hard pass!
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