Speaker Bios
Laura Palker, Founder & President, Exhibitions and Events Workforce Development Federation
After more than 30 years in the trade show industry, Ms. Palker has dedicated herself to improving the industry she serves. Laura is the Co-Founder/President of the Exhibitions and Events Workforce Development Federation, a nonprofit organization formed to foster collaboration between the many verticals of the Exhibitions and Events industry. The Federation is dedicated to building a network of Artisans, Masters, and Professionals connecting to advocate, support, and develop the Exhibitions and Events Industry Workforce.
Odie Parkins, Founder, 4 Tree Solutions
Starting as a Carpenter Apprentice, Odie evolved into a key figure in adult technical education. As West Virginia's Carpenter Apprenticeship and Training Director, he developed a powerful instructional team. Later, as lead facilitator at the Carpenter's International Training Facility in Las Vegas, he impacted many with expertise in leadership and emotional intelligence. At 4 Tree Solutions, Odie passionately advances personal leadership and workplace culture improvement in the construction industry, demonstrating a commitment to empowering others.
Christina Piedlow, president and CEO, TPG Trade Show & Event Marketing
With 20+ years of experience managing extensive trade show programs for leading global brands, Christina's productive approach to experiential marketing always ensures a measurable, impressive outcome. With her focus, drive, and passion, she thrives on bringing new ideas and applications to life for clients at F2F, virtual and hybrid events and tradeshows. Christina is an accomplished performer and spent over twelve years as a corporate spokesperson/presenter, and speaks at industry events, including EXHIBITORLIVE and HCEAConnect.
Laura Palker, Founder & President, Exhibitions and Events Workforce Development FederationAfter more than 30 years in the trade show industry, Ms. Palker has dedicated herself to improving the industry she serves. Laura is the Co-Founder/President of the Exhibitions and Events Workforce Development Federation, a nonprofit organization formed to foster collaboration between the many verticals of the Exhibitions and Events industry. The Federation is dedicated to building a network of Artisans, Masters, and Professionals connecting to advocate, support, and develop the Exhibitions and Events Industry Workforce.
Odie Parkins, Founder, 4 Tree SolutionsStarting as a Carpenter Apprentice, Odie evolved into a key figure in adult technical education. As West Virginia's Carpenter Apprenticeship and Training Director, he developed a powerful instructional team. Later, as lead facilitator at the Carpenter's International Training Facility in Las Vegas, he impacted many with expertise in leadership and emotional intelligence. At 4 Tree Solutions, Odie passionately advances personal leadership and workplace culture improvement in the construction industry, demonstrating a commitment to empowering others.
Christina Piedlow, president and CEO, TPG Trade Show & Event MarketingWith 20+ years of experience managing extensive trade show programs for leading global brands, Christina's productive approach to experiential marketing always ensures a measurable, impressive outcome. With her focus, drive, and passion, she thrives on bringing new ideas and applications to life for clients at F2F, virtual and hybrid events and tradeshows. Christina is an accomplished performer and spent over twelve years as a corporate spokesperson/presenter, and speaks at industry events, including EXHIBITORLIVE and HCEAConnect.
