1st Quarter, 2024

Chapter Newsletter

From the Chapter Chair

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Dear IAEE-CTC Members,


As we find ourselves already three months into the new year, it still amazes me how fast time passes in the Trade Show world. With April just around the corner, I wanted to take a moment to reflect on our recent experiences and share some exciting updates.


Firstly, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to all the IAEE CTC members who attended or participated in this year's Southwest Showcase. Your presence and enthusiasm truly made the event a resounding success. For those who were unable to join us, make sure to mark next year's Southwest Showcase on your calendars, as it promises to be even more extraordinary. Moving to the Palmer Event Center on January 29, 2025, it's an event you won't want to miss.


Looking ahead, I am thrilled to announce that the IAEE CTC board is diligently preparing for two exceptional behind-the-scenes events slated for July and November. The July tour will be hosted at the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center and will highlight the Texas Restaurant Show by the Texas Restaurant Association. Stay tuned for more information about the November behind-the-scenes tour, as it's shaping up to be an exciting experience. These gatherings are meticulously curated to offer unparalleled insights and networking opportunities, enriching your professional journey. Keep an eye out for further details about these programs and accompanying social events as we unveil our plans in the coming months.


In closing, I want to express my sincere appreciation for your continued support and engagement with IAEE-CTC. Together, we are fostering a vibrant community dedicated to advancing excellence in our industry. We look forward to seeing you soon at one of our chapter events.


Warm regards,


Michael Triola

Chair, IAEE-CTC

The Power of Volunteering: Advantages and Benefits of Joining a IAEE Central Texas

Chapter Committee

Author: Brooke Cowart, Vice President of Content, ConnexFM

Volunteering is a powerful and transformative act that not only benefits the IAEE community but also enriches the lives of those who participate. One of the many avenues through which individuals can contribute their time and skills is by joining a chapter committee. Volunteering on a committee offers numerous advantages and benefits that extend beyond the act of giving back.


Some noteworthy advantages of volunteering on an IAEE CTC committee include:


  1. Personal Skills Development and Growth: Committee involvement presents a unique opportunity for personal and professional growth. By joining an IAEE CTC committee, industry professionals can hone existing skills and acquire new ones. Collaborative problem-solving, decision-making, leadership, teamwork, and effective communication are just a few of the invaluable skills that can be developed through active committee participation. Volunteering also allows individuals to step outside their comfort zones, take on new challenges, and gain confidence in their abilities.
  2. Expanded Network and Connections: Volunteering on an IAEE CTC committee provides an excellent platform for networking and building meaningful connections. Committees often comprise of individuals from diverse backgrounds, professions, member categories and experiences who come together with a common goal. Engaging with fellow committee members allows for the establishment of valuable connections, both personal and professional. These connections can lead to new friendships, mentorship opportunities, and partnerships.
  3. Enhanced Community Engagement: IAEE CTC committee volunteers play a vital role in strengthening the exhibition and events community engagement. By actively participating in the decision-making processes, volunteers have the opportunity to shape and influence the chapter’s growth and development. Committee members often act as advocates for important causes, spearhead initiatives, and contribute to the overall well-being of the IAEE Central Texas Chapter. Volunteering on a committee empowers individuals to make a meaningful impact and drive positive change.
  4. Professional Development and Career Advancement: Volunteering on a committee can have significant professional benefits. It provides individuals with an avenue to showcase their skills, expertise, and commitment to the industry. This involvement can boost professional credibility and open doors to new opportunities, such as speaking engagements, conference presentations, or board positions. Committee participation also allows individuals to stay updated on industry trends, expand their knowledge, and develop a broader perspective, all of which are valuable assets in career advancement.
  5. Personal Fulfillment and Well-being: Volunteering on a committee is a fulfilling and rewarding experience. The act of giving back to the community and seeing the positive impact of one's efforts can bring immense joy and satisfaction. Studies have shown that volunteering has a positive effect on mental health, reducing stress levels and increasing overall happiness. It provides a sense of purpose, belonging, and fulfillment that can enhance overall well-being and quality of life.


Joining an IAEE CTC committee offers a multitude of benefits and advantages that extend far beyond the act of service. From skill development and personal growth to expanded networks, industry engagement, professional development, and personal fulfillment, committee involvement presents a transformative opportunity for individuals to make a lasting impact on both themselves and their communities.



All IAEE Central Texas Committee’s can be found on our website. We encourage you to reach out and join a committee today. We look forward to getting you plugged in and engaged! For more information or to join a committee today please reach out to Sarah Kokernot.

IAEE Central Texas Chapter

Works to Nourish Our Communities

This year IAEE-CTC Members will be supporting our wonderful Food Banks in Austin, Houston and San Antonio! Opportunities are available throughout the year! From organizing food drives and donation campaigns to volunteer opportunities, IAEE-CTC has mobilized its resources to support our food bank's mission!


Get Involved! Volunteer with us in your City on April 16! 

Austin 

Central Texas Food Bank

(6500 Metropolis Dr.)

Time: 1:00-4:00pm


San Antonio

San Antonio Food Bank

(5200 Historic Old Highway 90)

Time: 1:30-4:00pm


Houston

Houston Food Bank

(535 Portwall) 

Time: 1:00-4:00pm


Ready to sign up? 

If you are interested in volunteering with us, please email IAEE CTC Director of Charity & Community Service: Marti McCollough.  Be sure to include the city in which you’d like to participate. Spaces are limited!   

Not available on April 16th, but still want to help? 


We will conduct food drives at all of our in-person events throughout the year! So, clear out your pantry and bring those goods with you to our next IAEE-CTC in-person Event! Here’s a list of their most-wanted items; however any unexpired pantry item is appreciated!

• Peanut butter 

• Canned chicken breast or tuna 

• Canned low sodium vegetables 

• Canned fruit in its own juice (no sugar added) 

• Dry pinto beans, brown rice, or dry pasta 

• 100% whole grain cereal 

• Tomato sauce or canned tomatoes

Virtual Fundraiser

Did you know that just $10 will provide 40 meals for families in need? Let’s try to raise $500 for the Central Texas Food Bank and provide 2,000 meals! Every little bit helps! 


Donate Today!
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Mark Your Calendar and Get Ready for These Events

May 1, 2024

Coffee Convo

Virtual Event

July 15, 2024

Education Program

San Antonio, TX


Special Guest:

Marsha Flanagan

IAEE President & CEO

August 7, 2024

Coffee Convo

Virtual Event

"

September 4, 2024

Coffee Convo

Virtual Event

November 2024

Education Program

Location TBA

December 17-19, 2024

IAEE Expo!Expo!

Los Angeles, CA

January 29, 2025

Southwest Showcase

Palmer Event Center | Austin, TX

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Chapter & Industry News

Trade Show Executive Announces the Fastest 50 Class of 2023


Trade Show Executive (TSE) revealed the Fastest 50 Class of 2023, featuring the fastest-growing trade shows that took place in the U.S. in 2023. The results are in, and Fastest 50 shows can be found on the TSE Fastest 50 honoree list.  


The Fastest 50 are ranked in three categories — By Net Square Feet, By Exhibiting Companies and By Total Attendance. The Next 50, which are the fastest-growing shows in each category that did not crack the top 50, are also featured on the honoree list. 

Read More
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Congrats to IAEE CTC Member:


PayrollOrg (PAYO)

News You Can Use

Noticing things as they are


An interesting perspective from Marco Giberti, an entrepreneur. investor, and advisor with a strong focus on events, event tech, and b2b media. Below is an excerpt from his blog on events and technology:


"During our Business of Events masterclass program, I repeatedly mentioned that events 'are a human experience.' This 'human experience' could and should be improved using tech tools, but in the end, it will be about that human connection that makes it unique and irreplaceable. My personal revelation … is that because events are a human experience, they can be very successful in many cases without sophisticated or expensive event technology."

 

"Am I giving up on event tech? Not at all, but I’m doubling down on the essence of events—the human experience and connection."


Read the entire blog post.

An investigation into fake list vendors


Event Technologies undertook an effort to look into these list brokers to see if we could gain any insight into how they operate, what they are selling and whether or not they can be stopped. Our plan was to make contact with as many of these soliciting companies as possible to see what we could learn. We asked our prospects and existing clients to forward us any solicitation emails they received. The response was overwhelming. Over the course of six weeks, we received over 300 emails from organizers and exhibitors who had received these solicitations. Clearly, we had stumbled upon a widespread issue.”

 

Discover what Chris Tremblay President of Sales and Marketing at Event Technologies, wrote in TSNN that the company uncovered and how your exhibitors are being targeted.

Welcome New Members

We welcome the following individuals who have joined our chapter during the 1st quarter of 2024. 


  • Mary Altemus. The Asprey Group
  • Delayna Fuller. University of Houston
  • Valeria Gonzalez Leyva, Association for Professionals in Infection Control (APIC)
  • Logan Hall, Texas Trophy Hunters Association
  • Brandy Johnson, INSPIRE Event Technologies, LLC
  • Audrey Luttmann, International Facility Management Association
  • Brandon Owens, Texas Society of Association Executives
  • Minh Pham, International Facility Management Association
  • Crystal Pharr, Visit Austin


We hope to see you at future meetings and get to know you better!

Thank You to our Sponsors

2023 Sponsors who generously contribute

to the success of our Chapter

Platinum Sponsors

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Gold Sponsor

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Silver Sponsor

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Bronze Sponsor

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View the IAEE CTC 2024 Sponsorship Opportunities

2024 Sponsorships Available


IAEE CTC’s year-round sponsorship program provides your company exposure and access to the decision-makers in the Texas event industry.


Contact IAEE CTC Sponsorship Director, Judi Sunden for information.

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