By Rita F. Mitchell, CTSM, CEM, CME | Assistant Marketing Services Manager | Shurtape Technologies, LLC
More than a decade ago, while working for a Fortune 500 company within the trade show, exhibits, and event management department, a vendor mentioned the CEM certification program. This person suggested that I consider learning more about the certification program. I was extremely busy at the time, but also inquisitive to learn more about the certification process. My initial thoughts were… who has time to attend classes with my schedule; working weekends traveling to shows, family obligations, and not to mention unexpected life situations that tend to occur?
At the time, I had never heard of this organization, so I researched IAEE and the CEM Learning Program online and discovered the topics of the sessions were appealing. Most sessions are offered online multiple times a month, so if a specific day or time was not convenient with my schedule, additional sessions are offered the following month. Also, the flexibility of study-at-your-own-pace and the convenience of participating in the classes when it was convenient for my schedule was amazing. My mind was immediately made up and I was eager to begin the CEM certification program to enhance my meeting and event management skills.
The CEM Learning Program motivated me from day one. This program offered online classes that could be taken at home or during lunchtime. Other learning opportunities include CEM Week, which are in-person training and learning sessions. These in-person sessions offered industry scenarios, interactive projects, and most importantly fun activities. I made lifelong friends and colleagues that I continue to maintain professional relationships with.
The completion of my first professional certification was Certified in Exhibition Management from IAEE more than 10 years ago, however I am extremely proud and happy to be CEM certified. The entire experience was so memorable and life-changing, that I recommend others consider it. The CEM curriculum offered educational tools to increase my knowledge in meeting and event management which assists me daily in increasing measurable results within my current role.
Educational sessions, conferences, and seminars are knowledge-building opportunities offered within this industry and are an important aspect of my personal life and professional career. Work schedules, travel, and life in general sometimes did not provide the ideal scenarios for learning experiences. However, it is important to offer flexibility and various conduits for the professional learner seeking to expand their knowledge. The IAEE CEM Learning Program was one of the best and most memorable learning experiences of my professional career.
