Originally published in Trade Show Executive, August 2016 Edition
We have entered the second half of the year, which means that if you see me grinning from ear to ear (more so than usual, anyway), it is because IAEE headquarters is all about this December’s Expo! Expo! IAEE’s Annual Meeting & Exhibition in Anaheim, California. The office is buzzing about the new features we will be unveiling as well as the back-by-popular-demand experiences we have in store for this year’s attendees.
Each year at Expo! Expo!, we look at the latest trends in education and technology as they apply to the exhibitions and events industry, and strive to explore these trends in the best way so that attendees can put them to good use immediately when they return to their own meetings. This year, we will be focusing our education efforts on the following learning tracks: Planning & Strategy, Marketing, Technology, Design, Leadership and Management.
Attendees will be presented with a wide variety of dynamic learning opportunities through information sessions and case study presentations, as well as interactive experiences such as the Tech Center Showcase, Crowd Sourcing and Micro Learning sessions that are sure to engage all levels of industry experience.
Of course, technology is always a big draw at any exhibition and Expo! Expo! is all about staying on top of the latest tech trends. Not only will the show floor feature the latest developments particular to our industry, but our vast learning opportunities will delve into the technology disruptors and offerings at the forefront of providing the most memorable attendee experiences.
Get more information on the Expo! Expo! Tech Startup Pavilion
I have said it before and will say it again – the “I” in IAEE is not just a letter! Our international presence is strong with IAEE members in 51 countries. I have no doubt we will have a greater international presence than ever before at Expo! Expo!, so we have also focused on the global perspective of our industry. An international concierge service will be available for our guests who have put in long hours on a plane to be a part of Expo! Expo!, and I highly recommend connecting with fellow colleagues from around the world during the wide range of networking events presented.
One of my favorite features of Expo! Expo! is its combination of networking activities and opportunities to give back to the local community. The Chapter Challenge presented last year by Visit Anaheim is still underway, and I cannot wait to see the good work done by IAEE’s local chapters. For the eighth year in a row, IAEE will team with GES to present Humanity Rocks: A Celebration with a Cause to raise funds for a deserving organization based in our host city.
Start planning your experience, view the Expo! Expo! Schedule of Events!
But my absolute favorite part of Expo! Expo! is its one-of-a-kind chance to connect with the best the exhibitions and events industry has to offer – YOU! The mix of industry veterans and rising stars, seasoned pros and new ideas, tried-and-true experience and refreshing enthusiasm – this is exactly what makes our industry such a strong and vibrant community. It is no secret that I am very proud to be a part of such an outstanding group, and Expo! Expo! encompasses what our industry is all about.
Registration for Expo! Expo! IAEE’s Annual Meeting & Exhibition 2016 is open. Be sure to register by 21 October to receive the best deals on your Expo! Expo! experience. Stay tuned to www.myexpoexpo.com for the latest education, networking and Expo! Expo! show floor developments.
I look forward to seeing you in Anaheim!
David DuBois, CMP, CAE, FASAE, CTA
President & CEO
IAEE