Leah Racinskas Salinas, CEM has more than 20 years of experience in event planning and coordination, working with various industries, formats and audiences. She is currently a Show Operations Coordinator for Informa Connect where she oversees the logistics and execution of Fan Expo, a series of fan conventions that celebrate pop culture, comics, gaming and more with attendees as high as 100,000. She is passionate about delivering high-quality events that connect and educate people from diverse backgrounds and sectors.
In addition to her CEM designation and Virtual Hybrid Live certification, Leah leverages her skills in contract negotiation, meeting planning, and marketing to consistently exceed expectations. She is also a visual artist and a cosmetology professional, with a strong background in fashion, film, theater and photography.
Here, Leah shares how she has benefited from earning her CEM designation as well as how she enjoys learning new things and collaborating with others who share her vision and enthusiasm.
How has the CEM designation helped in your career?
Having completed the program very recently, I can only speak to what I have learned, which is a lot. I truly enjoyed the training and collaborations I experienced. I was able to utilize what I learned while going through the sessions on the shows I worked on.
Why is it important to maintain the CEM designation?
I feel that the CEM standard sets you apart, indicating this individual values education, training, and an understanding of the industry and can be considered an expert.
What made you want to obtain your CEM designation?
I value education, training and a deep knowledge of the industry that I work in. The CEM designation signifies that this individual desires to show that they have put in the time and work to understand their industry, and they continue to develop themselves and the industry they are proud to be a part of.
What advice would you give to an aspiring individual who wants to apply for the CEM program?
I would say to start today! No matter how long it takes, it is worth it. Never give up on yourself!
How did you start your career in this industry?
I fell into this industry by starting a party business right out of college and watched it grow into corporate events, weddings and more. I love people and working in an industry that is people-focused has always been a natural choice for me.
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?
I noticed right away when I started the training classes that so much of what I was learning could be used today! There were moments when I would be talking to someone and pulled information from a session without even realizing it into the conversation and would be asked how I knew that! Even though I just completed my certification it took many months to go through the process and at each point I was able to use something new. I know that completing this certification has made me grow and become a more knowledgeable industry expert.
What was it that you did or implemented right after obtaining your CEM?
I posted about the completion on LinkedIn! I have already been implementing what I learned while working on my last two shows and will continue to utilize all the skills and knowledge I learned from my CEM training throughout my career. I also plan to take the CEM-AP course and continue on my path of education.
What did you like most about the CEM Learning Program?
I really enjoyed hearing stories from people all over the world, their experiences, their shows and the way they did things. I had an excellent teacher who also made my classes which were on London time, or 3 am for me, enjoyable and interesting. The information was incredibly helpful, and I enjoyed the classes and challenges that were presented.
What is one thing most people don’t know about you?
I married my college sweetheart and we are still together 23 years later!
