Leah Racinskas Salinas, CEM has over 20 years of experience in event planning and coordination, working with a wide variety of industries, formats, and audiences. She is currently the Show Operations Coordinator at Informa Connect, overseeing the logistics and execution of Fan Expo, a series of fan conventions celebrating pop culture, comics, gaming, and more, with up to 100,000 attendees. She is passionate about producing high-quality events that connect and educate people from all backgrounds and industries.
In addition to being CEM qualified and Virtual Hybrid Live certified, Leah uses her contract negotiation, meeting planning and marketing skills to consistently exceed expectations. She is also a visual artist and beauty professional with a background in fashion, film, theatre and photography.
Here, Leah shares how she has benefited from gaining the CEM qualification and how she enjoys learning new things and working with others who share her vision and passion.
How has the CEM qualification helped you in your career?
I just recently finished the program and I can only say how much I learned, which was a lot. I really enjoyed the training and collaboration I went through. I was able to apply what I learned in the shows I was a part of.
Why is it important to maintain the CEM designation?
I feel that the CEM standard sets you apart and shows that this person values education, training, and knowledge of the industry and can be considered an expert.
What made you want to earn the CEM designation?
I value education, training, and a deep understanding of the industry I work in. The CEM designation shows that this person wants to show that they have invested time and effort into learning about their industry, and that they are continually developing themselves and an industry they are proud of.
What advice would you give to someone who wants to apply for the CEM program?
I would say start today! No matter how long it takes, it will be worth it. Never give up on yourself!
How did you start working in this industry?
I got into the industry right out of college, started a party company, and watched it grow into corporate events, weddings, etc. I love people, and working in a people-centric industry has always been a natural choice for me.
How have you used the knowledge gained from qualifying as a CEM to make a difference in your performances or when working with clients?
When I started taking training courses, I immediately noticed that a lot of what I learned is still in use today! Sometimes I’ll unintentionally pick up information from a conversation while I’m talking to someone, and then they’ll ask me how I knew that! Even though I just completed the certification, the whole process took several months, and every time I learn something new, I can use it. I know that completing this certification has allowed me to grow and become a more knowledgeable industry professional.
What did you do or implement after getting the CEM?
I posted about my completion on LinkedIn! I am already implementing what I learned during my first two gigs and will continue to use all of the skills and knowledge I learned from my CEM training throughout my career. I also plan to take the CEM-AP class and continue my education path.
What do you like most about the CEM study program?
I really enjoyed listening to people from all over the world tell their stories, their experiences, their performances and the way they do things. I had an excellent teacher who made my class (London time, which was 3am for me) enjoyable and interesting. The information was very useful and I enjoyed the class and the challenges presented.
What’s one thing most people don’t know about you?
I married my college sweetheart and 23 years later we are still together!
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