Feel the love of IAEE! Part 3: You have someone

By Mary Tucker | Senior Communications and Content Manager | IAEE

The real power of IAEE membership is its ability to connect the different communities of the exhibitions and events industry. Not only do IAEE members gain access to resources specific to their field, but they also join a large ecosystem where knowledge flows freely between communities.

In part one of this series, we explored the professional development opportunities available through IAEE. Part two delved into how individual chapters serve as gateways between local connections and the extended national/international IAEE “family.” Here we will learn about the various communities IAEE serves and the channels that facilitate learning and collaboration among all groups.

Consumer Activities

IAEE’s Consumer Events Community is a treasure trove of opportunities for business-to-consumer (B2C) show producers. Members can network with other B2C organizers, gain access to professional resources and guidance from IAEE’s dedicated Consumer Events Committee, plus have the opportunity to participate in learning experiences specifically for B2C shows.

For example, the upcoming Consumer Event Roundtable on August 21, 2024 is a free networking opportunity that includes an open discussion on venue contract negotiations. The roundtable will be moderated by Lew Shomer, CEO of Shomex Productions and Chairman of Abilities Expo, Debbie Barbieri, Director of Operations for Trade Show and Event Services at Abilities Expo, and Mark Roysner, Attorney at the Law Offices of Mark Roysner. Learn more and register here.

Faculty

Higher education professionals find a home in our Faculty Community, which offers a comprehensive Faculty Resource Center filled with lesson plans, learner outcomes, activities, test/quiz questions, presentation slides, videos, access to IAEE textbooks, The Art of Exhibition, Introduction to Exhibition Management Research, 5^day version Etc. Members can stay connected through in-person educational opportunities and meetups.

MATSO: Major US Trade Show Organizer

Large show organizers hosting events with more than 200,000 net square feet (NSF) can take advantage of the MATSO Community, which offers twice-yearly exclusive programming, private discussion groups and valuable insights from the MATSO Board of Directors. MATSO Meeting Online discussion groups include August 14, 2024 (Register here) and MATSO held a meeting at CEIR to predict exist September 12, 2024 (Register here).

student

IAEE is committed to developing the next generation of industry leaders. Members of the IAEE student community have access to an extensive resource center, career navigation, guidance on building a lifelong career in the trade show industry, and opportunities to network with industry veterans and fellow students.

Women in leadership

IAEE’s powerful women’s leadership community provides exclusive events and networking opportunities for women in the industry, regardless of age, personal situation or current position. Customized learning experiences, such as the annual Women’s Leadership Forum, motivate and inspire female industry professionals to take their careers to the next level.

Young Professionals

Recognizing the importance of emerging talent, IAEE provides dedicated resources and advice to its community of young professionals, and members can take advantage of dedicated programming and networking opportunities with industry veterans at Expo! Expo!, IAEE’s annual conference and exhibition.

Industry Insight Time

IAEE regularly hosts “Members Meetups” to connect industry professionals from across communities through relevant and timely conversations. These networking events are included with IAEE membership at no additional cost. Join us at the next Insights Hour to network with your peers!

Affiliate Links

Each of our different communities can engage in relevant conversations related to their interests through MemberLink, IAEE’s online forum. The member-driven discussion platform fosters connections between peers by allowing show organizers to share experiences, ask questions, and seek advice from their peers. Suppliers are welcome to join the Open Forum, which is open to all members and covers a wide range of topics to gain insight into organizers’ needs and provide solutions while building networks.

Whether you are an experienced trade show organizer, an aspiring student, or a faculty member shaping the future of the industry, IAEE membership opens doors for collaboration, learning, and growth. Our connected community creates a support network across the entire exhibition and events sector, ensuring that no matter your specialty, you can find your talent at IAEE.

Learn more about the many ways IAEE serves its members here!