By Tom Cindric, CEM Emeritus | President, Exhibitions | Informa Connect Foodservice

It is hard to believe that I first received my CEM at Expo! Expo! IAEE’s Annual Meeting & Exhibition in Nashville in 1998!

Since then, my CEM designation has been an important part of my professional journey because it reflects the experience, dedication, and passion I have invested in the exhibitions and events industry throughout my career. For me, it is more than just a few letters after my name – it represents a lifetime commitment to professionalism, excellence and continuous growth.

Over the years, the CEM has helped strengthen my credibility and reputation as a leader in the industry. It has shown customers, colleagues and peers that I bring both practical experience and recognized expertise to the table. Throughout my 37 years in trade shows and exhibitions, relationships and trust have been everything, and my CEM has reinforced both.

Personally, maintaining the designation is important because our industry never stands still. Technology, attendee expectations, marketing strategies and business models continue to evolve. The CEM pushes me to stay current, keep learning and remain engaged with the future of the profession rather than relying solely on past success.  We are never done learning and my participation in maintaining my CEM assists me greatly.

The designation has and will always be a source of pride for me. It represents not only where I have been, but also my commitment to staying relevant, adding value and continuing to contribute to the industry that has given me so much throughout my career.

The CEM Learning Journey offers programs for professionals at all levels of their career in exhibitions and events. Learn more here!

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