June 2015

A Message from Your Chapter Chair, Lisa Goecke

 Dear IAEE Midwestern Chapter Members:

I hope everyone is enjoying the summer. Between the Stanley Cup coming back home to Chicago and the beautiful weather we have on the horizon, this is shaping up to be a great time of year. 
 
The Midwestern Chapter provides connections for members by producing easy-access events and networking opportunities for our members. Local IAEE chapter events promote year-round engagement for the trade show and event community and contribute to the development of strong relationships among members.

It is at the chapter level where grass roots membership growth takes place. Furthermore, many chapter members experience valuable educational and networking opportunities that help them build and foster professional friendships in their hometown.

We rely on our individual members to set, lead, and execute the mission and goals of the chapter. In order to continue to provide the best networking and education opportunities to our trade show and event community, we need your help! We invite you to take part in our future. Help us build the IAEE Midwestern Chapter of tomorrow.

If you are interested in applying for a position on the Board of Directors, please access the application form here

--Lisa


This Quarter’s Highlights

Talking Like “Ted”         

Our June 3rd educational program featured three short presentations focused on social media, sustainability and gamification.  This sold out event at the Palm Restaurant, was well received and packed a lot of content into a one hour educational session. 

Chapter Leaders Forum

In early May, Jennifer Kimball and Brett Kolinek attended the chapter leadership forum at IAEE headquarters in Dallas to share new ideas and work on behalf of our chapter members. 

 

Young Professionals Happy Hour

On Thursday, May 28th, the IAEE Midwestern Chapter Young Professionals celebrated the sunshine at their first YP happy hour at the Cerise, rooftop bar and lounge, at the Virgin Hotel.

 


Important Reminders

 

26th Annual Midwestern Chapter Golf Outing


July 1st is the last day for early bird registration for hole sponsorships and foursomes. Register now to take advantage of the lower rate.

 

 


Upcoming Events - Save the Date

Industry Xchange

On Wednesday, July 8th this one day event offers networking, insight on industry trends presented in a new debate format.  If you’re a student, IAEEMWC would like to sponsor your attendance, contact Gail Brooks at [email protected]. Student scholarships are limited so don’t delay.

Educational Program and Holiday Party

Save the date November 18th  - IAEEMWC will be back at Kendall College tasting some culinary specialties while learning about food and beverage pairings. Why not kick off the start of the holiday season a little early this year with all of your industry colleagues?

Expo Expo 2015

December 1-3, IAEE annual meeting and exhibition is being held in Baltimore this year, registration opens later this summer.

Expo! Expo! Midwestern Chapter Young Professional Scholarship Opportunity

Are you interested in attending the 2015 Expo! Expo! Annual Meeting & Exhibition? Apply now for the Midwestern Chapter Young Professional Scholarship. This scholarship includes your Expo! Expo! registration fee and a two night hotel stay! 

Application Deadline: Monday, August 3rd

 

Join us for the next YP Happy Hour and Movie Night!

When: Tuesday, July 21st

4:00pm-6:00pm: Tree House, Tavern at the Park

6:30pm: Millennium Park Summer Film Series – Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory

Don’t miss out on this great opportunity to meet other young professionals in the Midwestern Chapter. No registration fee required! Please contact Sarah Madonia if you are planning to join us.


 Young Professionals Spotlight

 


Erin Sweeney – National Sales Associate, Global Experience Specialists (GES)

Hometown: Lake Zurich, IL
University: Illinois Wesleyan University
Fun Fact: I am on a mission to try as many eggs benedict variations as possible. So far crab cake eggs benedict is the champ. Accepting recommendations!

What is one piece of advice you would give to other IAEE Young Professionals? 
NETWORK! I learned the power of networking early on. This industry is filled with unique professionals of so many different talents. Networking only leads to more opportunities for your professional growth. Whether you join an industry association, a committee, or a young professionals group, the end result will not be disappointing. The opportunities are endless. Ask the questions you are nervous to ask. Surround yourself with mentors, leaders, and listeners. Always be looking for your next opportunity. Make your presence known. All of this can be done with the power of networking.

What is your favorite quote and why?
 "Do one thing every day that scares you." -Eleanor Roosevelt

I love this quote, and I think it is a great way to not only live, but to strive. Taking risks is part of defining who you are as a professional and overall person. At the end of the day, I do not want to have any regrets or to have to attempt to answer the "what ifs". You learn by making mistakes and taking chances. It may not always be the outcome you were looking for, but you can always walk away knowing you have a new lesson learned, and you have grown in some way. Life is too boring without a little risk. Taking chances and being "scared" is one way to keep it exciting and leaves you wondering, "what's next?".

“Like” IAEE MWC Young Professionals on Facebook to see more Young Professionals Spotlights! Do you want to be the next Young Professionals Spotlight? Fill out the Spotlight Survey!


Industry Related Tips and Tools

Trying to find research to support new initiatives?  Well don’t forget about a free member resources provided by CIER. http://www.ceir.org/

7 ways to use Instagram to your advantage at a tradeshow
http://www.exhibitcitynews.com/7-ways-use-instagram-advantage-tradeshow/

Optimize Your Trade Show Experience with an Event Checklist
http://www.tsnn.com/news-blogs/optimize-your-trade-show-experience-event-checklist

 

 

Thank You to our 2015 Sponsors

 

Platinum

Choose Chicago 

Freeman

Global Experience Specialists


Trade


Convention Data Services 

Oscar & Associates 


Gold

Fern Exposition & Event Services

Valley Expo & Displays 


Silver 

Expocad

Map Your Show 

Meet Chicago Northwest

SmartSource

 

 

 

Network With Us!