Happy new year! It is that time of year where lists of resolutions, goals, to-do’s, hopes and dreams are made – and IAEE is no different. At the top of our list (every year, actually) is serving our members in the best ways we can. It is paramount to us that we provide exhibitions and events professionals with all the tools they need to thrive in their work and achieve their goals.
With that in mind, IAEE’s leadership team wants to make sure you are making the most of your member benefits. Join them on 22 January for the webinar, Unleashing the Full Potential of Your IAEE Membership: A Comprehensive Guide to Leveraging Your Member Benefits in 2025, as they dive into how you can apply the knowledge and benefits gained from IAEE’s broad range of offerings to make 2025 your best year yet!
Here is an overview of the benefits they will explore:
Professional Development Opportunities
CEIR Research
Members receive complimentary access to Center for Exhibition Industry Research (CEIR) reports, providing actionable insights for better event decision-making. These reports cover attendee behavior, exhibitor strategies, sponsorship trends and general industry developments.
Certification Program
The Certified in Exhibition Management® (CEM) designation represents the highest professional standard in exhibitions and events globally. With over 4,000 active CEMs worldwide, the program delivers nine comprehensive courses available both online and in-person. These courses are taught by experienced industry professionals who bring real-world knowledge to the classroom. IAEE’s Certification Journey begins with the Workforce Ready Assessment and moves through CEM Certified, CEM Advanced Professional, CEM Fellow and CEM Emeritus, allowing professionals to advance their credentials throughout their careers.
Leadership Development
The IAEE Leadership Institute serves as an incubator for tomorrow’s leaders through immersive educational experiences that transform behaviors and create inclusive mindsets. Through the Women’s Leadership Forum, IAEE provides specialized programming tailored to women in the industry at every career stage. Expo! Expo! IAEE’s Annual Meeting & Exhibition rounds out the leadership offerings with multiple education tracks and valuable networking opportunities that bring the industry together.
Webinars
IAEE Webinar Wednesdays cover business trends, emerging technologies and professional advancement. These sessions are free for members (non-members pay $49) and are available both live and recorded, ensuring flexibility in your learning schedule.
Local Chapter Benefits
IAEE members automatically receive complimentary membership to their local chapter, opening doors to regional networking opportunities and educational programs. Members can develop their leadership skills through committee and board participation while making a difference through community service initiatives. The chapter structure also allows members to access events from other chapters when traveling, creating a nationwide network of professional development opportunities.
Specialized Communities
IAEE serves diverse industry segments through dedicated communities:
Consumer Events
The Consumer Events community provides specialized resources for B2C show producers, including access to the Consumer Events Council and targeted learning experiences. Members can participate in regular roundtables focused on specific challenges and opportunities in the consumer events space.
Faculty
The Faculty community offers a comprehensive Resource Center containing everything educators need to develop the next generation of industry professionals. Members have access to detailed lesson plans, teaching materials and the industry-standard The Art of the Show textbook resources.
MATSO (Major American Trade Show Organizers)
MATSO serves large show organizers producing events over 200,000 net square feet through dedicated programming and private discussion groups. Members participate in bi-annual MATSO Meets networking events, fostering collaboration among the industry’s largest show producers.
Show Organizers
The Show Organizer community covers topics of interest related to all aspects of putting together a successful exhibition. Members can participate in monthly Show Organizer Insights Hour to gain knowledge from other member experiences and collaborate to find common solutions.
Students
The Student community provides comprehensive career navigation resources and industry networking opportunities for those beginning their journey in trade shows. Members receive guidance and support for building successful careers in the exhibition industry.
Women in Leadership
The Women in Leadership community delivers exclusive events, networking opportunities and the annual Women’s Leadership Forum. Members can participate in monthly Women’s Insights Hour sessions, creating ongoing opportunities for professional growth and connection.
Young Professionals
Young Professionals benefit from specialized programming at Expo! Expo! and networking opportunities with industry veterans. The community focuses on targeted professional development resources designed specifically for those in the early stages of their careers.
Networking and Communication Platforms
Industry Insights Hours
IAEE’s Insights Hours connect professionals through relevant conversations at no additional cost. These sessions include the Faculty Insights Hour, MATSO Insights Hour, New Members Insights Hour, Show Organizer Insights Hour, and Women’s Insights Hour, each designed to address the specific needs of different member segments.
MemberLink Online Forum
The IAEE MemberLink platform facilitates peer-to-peer discussions and knowledge sharing across the industry. An open forum allows suppliers to connect with organizers, creating a dynamic marketplace of ideas and solutions.
Volunteer Leadership Opportunities
IAEE offers diverse leadership opportunities for volunteers through its councils, committees, task forces and special projects. We carefully match volunteers’ skills and strengths to the most suitable committees, ensuring meaningful engagement that advances our mission of serving member needs. By thoughtfully placing volunteer leaders where they can make the greatest impact, we create lasting partnerships that benefit both our volunteers and the organization.
Additional Benefits
IAEE membership extends beyond traditional benefits to include virtual event participation across chapters and exclusive behind-the-scenes industry tours. Members can participate in mentorship programs, and may be eligible for grant and scholarship opportunities.
IAEE membership provides a comprehensive ecosystem of resources, connections and opportunities for professional growth. Whether you are just starting your career or are a seasoned professional, IAEE offers the support and tools needed to advance your professional journey.
