Congratulations to recent #CEM graduate Tracey Wilson, CEM of the American Pet Products Association! Read about Tracey’s #CEM journey and how the knowledge she gained gave her new and exciting ideas to apply to her annual show, the Global Pet Expo!
Hometown: Bridgeport, CT
University of Education: University of New Haven
How has the CEM designation helped in your career?
Having worked in the trade show industry at APPA for 20 years, earning my CEM has given me a better understanding of managing our trade show, meetings and special events. I’ve gained more knowledge about the industry which will allow me to apply what I’ve learned to our annual show, Global Pet Expo and other events.
Why is it important to maintain the CEM designation?
Earning my CEM is a very important accomplishment which will allow me to continue learning as well as advance in my career.
What made you want to obtain your CEM designation?
A goal of mine was to earn my CEM. I wanted to learn more information about the industry including new ideas that would help with managing our annual trade show, meetings and special events.
What advice would you give to an aspiring individual who wants to apply for the CEM program?
I would encourage any individual looking to start a career in the trade show industry to go for it! The CEM program is a great opportunity to learn, meet and network with other industry professionals.
How did you start your career in this industry?
After graduating from college, I begin working in the hotel industry for 8 years. I then relocated to Connecticut and was hired to work for a pet industry trade association, American Pet Products Association (APPA). I’ve been working for APPA, which hosts the annual pet products trade show, Global Pet Expo.
How have you made a difference with your show or with working with a client by applying the knowledge you gained by obtaining your CEM designation?
The knowledge that I’ve gained from the CEM program has allowed me to apply what I’ve learned to our trade show, meetings and special events.
What was it that you did or implemented right after obtaining your CEM?
After receiving my official CEM designation letter, I felt really proud of my accomplishment. I proudly added the CEM designation to my LinkedIn profile as well as my email signature at work!!
What did you like most about the CEM Learning Program?
The CEM program has allowed me to connect and learn from my peers within the industry. The flexibility and convenience of taking courses online and in person has allowed me to earn my certification at a pace that fit within my schedule.
Fun fact about you – What is one thing most people don’t know about you?
I enjoy traveling to different countries and Caribbean Islands to learn about their history and culture.
