Legendary Speakers
Learn from the best! Our legendary faculty boasts more than 75 top experts, authors and thinkers, including brand-side companies who lead the industry in ROI, innovation, and new technology.
Errol Ahearn, account director, Spiro, Part of the GES Collective.
Errol has over 25 years of experience in Exhibit and Event Marketing. He's one of the top award-winning creative leaders in our industry. He's also an industry thought leader and speaker at EXHIBITORLIVE, PCMA, EDPA, HCEAConnect and many other events. He leads multi-disciplinary teams to support global clients in the areas of Healthcare, Aerospace, and Technology. Errol has traveled extensively around the globe supporting clients and discovering the latest exhibition strategies for many years.
Lee Ali, founder, Expo Stars Interactive
Lee Ali is the founder of Expo Stars Interactive, an award winning global trade show performance agency based in UK. Lee and his team now support exhibitors in over 100 cities across 53 countries to optimize their exhibition engagement and achieve measurable results through the provision of strategic consultancy, staff training and professional booth staff. Lee is also a mentor and coach for SME business owners, business psychologist, sales strategist and an international speaker.
Kelly Franklin Bagnall, Esq., partner, Holland & Knight
Kelly Franklin Bagnall has represented hotel and resort owners and management companies nationwide in virtually all aspects of operational matters, including litigation, arbitration and attending to risk management and security issues. Kelly is a partner with the law firm of Holland & Knight, LLP, and is a member of the Academy of Hospitality Industry Attorneys, Meeting Professionals International, National Association of Credit Management, and the State Bar of Texas.
M4008 Liability Related to Social Media, Liquor and Host Issues, High Risk Activities, and Data Protection
Brian Baker, vice president, Highmark TechSystems
Brian Baker has over 25 years of Event industry experience, and is one of its most prominent creative leaders. EDPA's Designer of the Year in 2017, he is very active in mentoring young designers and students. Brian studied design at the world-renowned Center for Creative Studies, and received his bachelor's from Purdue. He has worked with many high-profile brands including Coca-Cola, Intel, Best Buy, Home Depot, FedEx, Anheuser Busch, Michelin, Volvo, & The Atlanta Braves.
Jacqueline Beaulieu, HMCC, director, strategic marketing at Poretta & Orr | Exhibit & Events
Jacqueline Beaulieu, HMCC, Poretta & Orr, Director, Strategic Marketing & Client Engagement, Exhibitions and Events Workforce Development Federation, Vice Chair, has over 25 years of healthcare exhibit and event marketing experience. Formerly an executive at HCEA (Healthcare Convention & Exhibitors Association), Jackie now leads strategic marketing and client engagement efforts. As a trainer for MPI's healthcare meeting compliance and member of MPI's Medical Meeting Advisory Board, she's committed to excellence through her involvement and contributions.
T0010 Pathways to the Exhibitions and Events Industry's Sustainability through Workforce Development
Martijn Besaris, sales director, The Inside
Martijn (Martin) has been at The Inside since 2016. He started as an International Sales Manager and has been Sales Director for 1 year. The Inside is a European based, full service provider for custom, modular, and pop up exhibits. He is a Board Member & IFES Talent Team Chair (International Federation of Exhibition & Event Services). Martin has 3 kids and loves to prepare dinner on his BBQ.
Joost Bijsterveld, director of global customer experiences, Philips
Joost's mission is to use the power of experiential marketing to connect with customers on an emotional level, and translate high-level business objectives and messages into engaging, memorable experiences that have measurable impact. As Director of Global Customer Experiences for Philips, he has centralized the design and experience strategy for their 4,000+ events and 2 CECs. By creating a unique networked team of experts and storytellers, he's able to efficiently create award-winning experiences at scale.
Paul Billings, vice president/CMO, Per4mance Marketing
Paul Billings comes to you with over 17 years in training, coaching and engagement strategy. He is the co-founder and Vice President of Per4mance Marketing LLC which is a global experiential event marketing agency specializing in performance training, coaching and strategic engagement staffing. Paul leads teams focusing on delivering and training highly skilled individuals that execute engaging product demonstration, technical presentations, and audience engagement that are results oriented and focus on achieving better program outcomes.
Anders Boulanger, founder and CEO, Engagify
Anders Boulanger is the founder/CEO of Engagify. For nearly two decades he's been travelling the world with his team of Infotainers creating crowds of interested prospects at trade show booths for his tech clients. After logging thousands of hours of engaging with people at events around the world, he has codified engagement and now trains teams and individuals how to engage their prospects so that they can deepen connection and command attention.
M2072R How To Train Your Booth Staff: A Three-Step Process for Inspiring and Firing Up Your Booth Staff
M2080 Putting the "Show" in Trade Show: In-booth Presentations to Maximize Presence and Lead Generation
Barbara Bowen, exhibits manager, Southwest Research Institute
Barbara Bowen (she/her) has managed the exhibits program at Southwest Research Institute, headquartered in San Antonio, Texas, for more than 18 years. She attended her first EXHIBITORLIVE in 2006 and has been pursuing the dream of a perfect program on a nonprofit budget ever since. She's also a poet, sculptor, reader, knitter, and general nerd about town.
T0000 Exhibit Hall Tech Tour
W0000 Exhibit Hall Tech Tour
Glenda Brungardt, CTSM Diamond, consultant, GBrungardt Events
After 46 years at HP, Brungardt recently retired and is transistioning from full-time to working as a consultant. At HP she spent over 30+ years managing tradeshows/events where she delivered consistent brand, messaging, experiences, and execution of tradeshows/events. She will continue to be a contributor in the events industry - teaching/presenting at various conferences, serving on conference advisory board for EXHIBITORLIVE, the EDPA exhibitor committee, and The Exhibitor Advocate board - advocating for exhibitors!
Kim Burkus, (CTSM candidate), VP, group account director, Jack Morton
Kim joined Jack Morton in 1996, working in a variety of roles in the experiential marketing business, including Project Coordinator, Producer, Account Manager and Director of Project Management. In her current role as VP, Group Account Director she maintains and grows client relationships, making sure that teams are working efficiently and effectively to deliver on our clients' objectives. She has managed hundreds of projects for key accounts, primarily in the healthcare industry.
Corbin Butcher, CTSM, managing director, Beire s.r.o.
Corbin Butcher is a Managing Director at Beire Exhibitions in Prague, Czech Republic. He oversees the company's sales, marketing, and product development, sits on the board, and has lived in Europe for over a decade as an ex-pat. He started his career in the U.S. Marine Corps. Corbin holds a BA in Physics and German from Hamilton College and an MBA from the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern.
Dax Callner, strategy director, Smyle
Dax Callner is a marketing strategist with 25 years experience developing programs for some of the world's leading brands, including P&G, American Express, Meta, Salesforce, Amazon, Roche, Google, Intel, Microsoft, Dell, National Grid, ABB and many others. Dax founded the non-profit Experiential Marketing Measurement Coalition (EMMC) in 2017 and currently serves as its Board President. He is also a songwriter, producer and performing musician.
Katharine Chestnut, CTSM Diamond, founder and author, LNAL Life
Katharine is a dynamic individual who excels as a writer, speaker, and co-working owner. She prioritizes self-care and has extensively studied wellness disciplines to support her own personal growth. She transitions effortlessly from marketing to kinesiology and coaching. Her recent accomplishments include Inner Affirmations Inspirations, The Mindful Life community, and meditations on the Insight Timer app. Katharine's speaking style is captivating, blending science, wit, and spirituality to deliver engaging talks that are easy to understand.
Andrea Christopherson, vice president, SearchWide Global
Andrea specializes in executive search and business development in the experiential event marketing segment and tradeshow/exhibition segments. Andrea brings experience with leading a SaaS-based learning software company dedicated to transforming education and professional development, leading training and experiential event initiatives for Omni Hotels & Resorts, and in national sales and recruitment for global hotel brands. Her skills in business strategy, workforce development, and organizational effectiveness support leaders and organizations in achieving optimal success.
Laura Cooley, CTSM Gold, senior manager, global trade shows, Oshkosh Defense
Laura Cooley, CTSM Gold, is a Global Senior Trade Show Manager in the defense industry with more than three decades of managing and executing trade shows and events around the world. Laura took her first session at EXHIBITORLIVE in 1998 and in 2004 decided to pursue her CTSM certification. In 2018, she received her certification and is currently working on her Diamond Certification.
Andy Core, PhD, CEO, Core Change Institute and author of "Change Your Day, Not Your Life"
Dr. Andy Core is an credentialed, award-winning author/speaker on thriving in high demand organizations. ANDY BY THE NUMBERS: * Over 2 decades of experience as a consultant, author and speaker * Over 1,100 presentations on 3 continents * 5 Star peak performance author (Wiley Publishing, NY, NY) * Produced sustained engagement 13 times the national average * Helped over 100K people improve their work/lives with 1 simple idea - Change Your Day, Not Your Life.
Marc Crosier, senior event manager, Sirtex Medical
Marc Crosier offers 25+ years experience in Event Marketing. He started his career working at exhibit houses advising and servicing pharmaceutical, apparel, and electronics clients. For the past 20 years he has been working for medical device and healthcare financial companies providing strategic direction for their trade show and event programs.
T0000 Exhibit Hall Tech Tour
W0000 Exhibit Hall Tech Tour
Robyn Davis, CPTD, CEM, trade show strategy specialist, Exhibitors WINH LLC
You may recognize Robyn from the exhibitor success programs she creates/facilitates on behalf of the SHOT Show, RE+, CONEXPO-CON/AGG, and other major American trade shows. Robyn's certification is in talent development (training) and her degree is in Aerospace Engineering. She has been honored to receive recognition such as "Educator of the Year" award (IAEE), "Pacesetter" award (Events Industry Council), and "40 Under 40" lists (Exhibit City News and Connect Assoication), to name a few.
Carmine DeFalco, president, creative director, Pixel Light Digital Media Inc.
Carmine has spent the last 30 years helping clients engage, track, and deliver for their targets through innovative digital solutions. Across many corporate adventures, he's accumulated a deep creative and technological expertise that makes him and his team valuable partners to marketers, educators, and communicators. Carmine's work covers a wide range of disciplines including web/mobile apps, animation/video, augmented/virtual reality, digital sales tools, interactive displays, analytics, and user experience.
Dianne Devitt, chief experience officer, Dianne Devitt LLC
Dianne is a pioneer in the event industry with global experience as a producer, speaker, author, and educator. She was the founder of a premiere event company and served Heads of State, Astronauts and Fortune 50 companies. As a Professor at NYU for over 33 years and believer in training, she also wrote "What Color is Your Event? a creative thinking resource and co-authored Called to Lead: Success Strategies for Women focusing on Creative Leadership.
Nancy Drapeau, IPC, vice president of research, Center for Exhibition Industry Research
A 31-year market research veteran with extensive expertise in exhibition industry research. At CEIR she conducts industrywide trend studies and speaks at industry events. She has a BA in Government from Georgetown University and a Master's in Advanced European and International Studies from l'IEHEI. She is a member of the Event Industry Council's (EIC) Research & Advocacy Task Force. She lives in Maine with her husband, son and border collie, Moxie.
Betsy Earle, CTSM Diamond, managing director/founder, Event Driven Solutions
Betsy P. Earle, CTSM, Diamond-Level, is a marketing consultant, speaker, and trainer, as well as the Managing Director and Founder of Event Driven Solutions. Betsy works closely with her clients to execute successful trade show programs and exhibit designs, as well as on their marketing programs. Betsy obtained her MBA at the University of Miami, with a concentration in Marketing & Statistics, and her BA and BS at the University of Rhode Island.
Dahlia El Gazzar / Tech Evangelist + Idea Igniteur + Netweaver
Dahlia has an OMG-attitude about all things eventtech and experience design. She's her own brand, with more than a decade of experience in the meetings and events sector, working on both the professional planning side and as an association collaborator, Dahlia is known as the coffee-fuelled 'go-to' source for trend-setting solutions, eventtech news, and professional branding expertise.
Jon Ellms, EVP client development, Access TCA
For over 30 years, Jon has partnered with clinical-stage startups and global leaders in pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, and healthcare IT, to build meaningful, measurable engagement with healthcare professionals at medical congresses. As EVP at Access TCA, Jon serves as client service ambassador, program strategist, and creative catalyst. Jon is a longtime board member and speaker at HCEA, where he currently serves as Vice President and Chair of HCEA's Education Committee.
Kevin England, CEO and president, Vonazon
As founder, CEO, and President of Vonazon-one of the nation's leading digital marketing, advertising, and media agencies-Kevin England is an impassioned entrepreneur and executive strategist. With over three decades of proven experience in growing businesses in all industries across the globe, England's skill for innovation is a fine-tuned machine. He focuses on value-driven content, helping encourage and enable companies to drive measurable and sustainable growth that takes their business to the next level.
Dana Esposito, EVP of strategy, BlueHive Exhibits
With over 25 years of award-winning trade show design and industry strategy experience, Dana is the EVP of Strategy at BlueHive Exhibits. Dana focuses on solving clients' needs, and supporting her colleagues by fostering continuous education and a commitment to growth. Dana has received several industry awards for design and leadership, is an adjunct Professor at BSU, is the co-chair of the EDPA University Affiliation Committee, and is on the EDPA Board of Directors.
Jillian Fafard, director of marketing, Aluvision
Jillian Fafard's aim is to always uncover and showcase a brand's story while meeting their marketing objectives. She is experienced in brand development, creative strategy and copywriting with an ad agency background. She uses her innate understanding of consumer psychology to create marketing and advertising experiences that influence a customer's perspective and incite action. Jillian is the 2024 President of the EDPA Northeast Chapter, and the Marketing Officer for the EDPA Future Leaders Committee.
Sarah Fantauzzi, chief growth officer, Star Group
Sarah Fantauzzi, Chief Growth Officer at Star Group, leads the charge in identifying and capitalizing on untapped opportunities to drive exponential growth for the company. With a deep-rooted expertise in the event, marketing, and trade show industries, Sarah dives into customer insights, industry trends, and competitive landscapes to uncover new avenues for expansion. She fosters a culture of innovation by promoting cross-functional collaboration and implementing agile methodologies. Leveraging cutting-edge technology, data analytics, and marketing automation tools, Sarah ensures that Star Group remains at the forefront of its field. Her customer-centric approach, focused on personalized experiences and lasting relationships, underpins Star Group's commitment to success in the experiential marketing and corporate interior space.
T0000 Exhibit Hall Tech Tour
W0000 Exhibit Hall Tech Tour
Joe Federbush, president/chief strategist, EVOLIO Marketing
How do you manage it if you don't measure it? President and Chief Strategist of EVOLIO Marketing, Joe works with major brands like Intel, Lenovo, and Novo Nordisk, developing actionable KPIs, conducting surveys, and analyzing/reporting results for exhibit and event success. Joe delivers actionable insights that help companies optimally execute their exhibits and event programs to deliver greater return on experiences (ROX), emotion (ROE), and investment (ROI). Learn more at www.evoliomarketing.com.
Josh Frisbie, VP Creative, Hamilton
Josh leads our award-winning multi-disciplinary creative team to produce real-world experiences for the promotion of clients' brands through exhibit, environmental, digital, and event design. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Design Technology with an emphasis in Exhibit Design from Bemidji State University in Minnesota.
Brad Froese, vp of marketing, Captello
Brad Froese is a marketing and event management expert with over three decades of experience. In his current role as VP of Marketing at Captello, he has successfully led innovative campaigns that have yielded impressive outcomes. His extensive background spans areas from multi-channel marketing to trade show planning and execution. An international patent holder and founder of a lighting technology company, Brad has showcased his expertise in marketing strategy, product development, and establishing business relationships.
Jim Gilmore, co-founder, Strategic Horizons LLP and co-author of "The Experience Economy", "Authenticity" and "Look"
Jim Gilmore, co-founder, Strategic Horizons LLP, is co-author of "The Experience Economy: Competing for Time, Attention, and Money," "Authenticity: What Consumers Really Want," and author of "Look: A Practical Guide for Improving Your Observational Skills." He teaches in the Design & Innovation Department of the Weatherhead School of Management at Case Western Reserve University.
Mark Gnatovic, executive vice president, SearchWide Global
Mark heads the executive search division that specializes in talent acquisition for the experiential event marketing, convention, tradeshow, and venue sectors for SearchWide Global, a full-service executive search firm. He has overseen recruitment initiatives across corporate, agency, and non-profit domains including C-level to director positions within marketing/sales/creative and operations. He has sat on the IAVM board as a trustee and an EXCOM member and is active with many industry trade associations in the meeting/event space.
Pablo Gonzalez, founder/CEO, BeTheStage.live
Pablo Gonzalez believes community is the ultimate advantage for a business, and to build it, you need to use category design principles to evangelize a problem your clientele cares deeply about. He has sold $60M+ construction projects, rescued fledgling start-ups, set record breaking quarters for $100M+ companies, and been named a a Top 20 Under 40 in his hometown of Miami. His trade show techniques were featured in The Ultimate Sales Machine (New Edition).
Janet Good, CTSM Diamond, senior account executive, MC²
An Account Executive of MC² for 20 years, Janet equally enjoys all aspects of the face-to-face marketing process: design, construction, project management, culminating in the delivery of integrated brand marketing strategies, working with client and internal teams to "make it all happen." She is a graduate of Drexel University where she earned B.S. degrees in Business Marketing and Commerce and Engineering. Prior to joining the trade show arena, Janet immersed herself in the advertising, publishing, and point-of-purchase display industries.
Lisa Greyhill, MAS, founder and CEO, Firebrand Global Marketing
Lisa Greyhill, MAS, is founder and CEO of Firebrand Global Marketing. Greyhill's career started in tech B2B marketing before starting Firebrand in 2005, where she focused on strong client relationships drive successful long-term business. Greyhill is an active board member of the Promotional Products Association of Chicago, and a Committee member at Promotional Productions Association International. Firebrand holds WBE and WOSB certifications; and other WBE and Veteran and Minority Owned Businesses have merged with Firebrand.
Heather Griffin, vice president of marketing, Impact XM
Heather Griffin has 16+ years of experience in B2B and B2C marketing and 10+ years of experience focusing on sustainabilty initiatives across multiple organizations helping them to attain a number of certifications. At Impact XM, a global experiential marketing agency, Heather leads all marketing strategy and efforts on behalf of the company, is the Head of Sustainabilty, and Executive Chairman of the Sustainability Board driving innovation and conversation to help make a more sustainable industry.
John Griffith, managing director of account services, Markey's
With a dedicated commitment spanning three decades, John Griffith is the Managing Director of Account Services at Markey's. Leveraging his extensive experience and strong technical background in live event execution and planning, John oversees an exceptional team of National Account Managers who handle more than 30 million dollars of business on an annual basis. John actively contributes to the development of training programs and operational processes, ensuring that Markey's remains a trailblazer in the industry.
Jeff Hannah, founder and president, Global Exhibitor
Jeff Hannah, Founder & President of Global Exhibitor, is an expert in the global trade show industry. He podcasts, consults, writes, and speaks about cross-cultural and trade show differences. Having founded companies in the UK, UAE and the USA, he has produced branded environments in over 50 countries for many of the world's top brands. He hosts The Global Exhibitor Podcast, and blogs at www.GlobalExhibitor.com. Hannah holds a BS in Industrial Design from Georgia Tech.
Glenn Hansen, CEO and founder, Reduce2 LLC
Glenn is CEO of Reduce2 LLC, providing certification to ISO Standards, industry guidance, and best practices. He's a technical writer of sustainability standards ensuring the category has stakeholder engagement. Served as the certification body for the EIC, certified companies to ISO 20121, Sustainable Event Management System, and wrote sustainable standards for Singapore, Dubai, EDPA and ESCA. Glenn is a member of UFI's sustainability committee, certified by AccountAbility as a Sustainability Assurance Practitioner (ACSAP) and Certified Sustainability Practitioner.
Philip Hardin, Co-founder, Chairman, and CFO of YouScience
Philip Hardin is the co-founder, chairman, and chief financial officer of YouScience. After earning an MBA from Stanford University in 1995, Philip helped transform ActaMed, a small technology firm, into the nation's largest healthcare financial and administrative information exchange company. In 2012, Philip co-founded YouScience. In 2023, YouScience unveiled YouScience Brightpath, an end-to-end, AI-powered, platform that to help individuals identify their aptitudes, validate their skills, and get matched with educational and career pathways.
T0010 Pathways to the Exhibitions and Events Industry's Sustainability through Workforce Development
Holly Hicks, CTSM, marketing and client relations manager, ASSET Engineering
Holly is an Integrated Marketing and Business Development Professional with nearly a decade of experience with brand management, digital marketing, business analytics, and client relations. Serving as the Marketing and Client Relations Manager at ASSET Engineering, she oversees the firm's brand through traditional and digital channels, including event coordination. A University of Mississippi alumna and a recent CTSM graduate, Holly is dedicated to continuous learning and industry growth, through actively participating in events like EXHIBITORLIVE.
Felicia Kaban (CTSM candidate), director of executive events, Kenvue
Felicia started her career 23+ years ago with an exhibit house before transitioning into an event marketing role with Johnson & Johnson. She recently joined Kenvue, the Johnson & Johnson Consumer Health spin off. Her experience gives her a unique perspective and understanding of event strategy and execution. Felicia aligns her events with the overall organizational strategy and business objectives to maximize value in advancing advocacy, increasing attitudinal equity and product utilization.
Ellen Kaminski, president and COO, Exhibit Concepts, Inc.
Ellen Campbell-Kaminski is President and COO of Exhibit Concepts, Inc. (ECI) and oversees the company's sales and marketing, strategy, and development of new products and services. Prior to ECI, Ellen held executive positions in marketing and business development for software and information services companies. Ellen holds a BA in Communications from the University of Pennsylvania and an MBA from Georgetown University. She teaches at the University of Dayton and speaks on branding and marketing effectiveness.
Kimberly Kee, Director, Event Marketing, RealPage
Kimberly is a high-energy marketing professional with decades of leadership experience over a full spectrum of event and trade show programs. She enjoys creating experiences that inspire, delight, and educate audiences. Kimberly has managed programs for MCI, Hughes, Boeing, Arrow, and TeamViewer, and is currently the Director, Event Marketing for RealPage. Kimberly enjoys sharing knowledge through storytelling and real-life experiences and is known to geek-out over a well-crafted spreadsheet.
Matt Kleinrock, CEO, Rockway Exhibits + Events
With over 12 years in the tradeshow industry, Matt leads a team dedicated to crafting intentional experiences and establishing clear success metrics for clients. As the host of 'Event Marketing: Redefined,' he is cultivating a community for event marketers to share their insights. He envisions a resurgent event industry, propelled by event marketers who create impactful experiences. Beyond work, Matt sharpens his golf game and spends time with his wife and three children in Florida.
Deanna Krause, CTSM Gold, Trade Show Strategist
With over 25 years of marketing experience, Deanna has exhibited at over 3,000 trade shows and has helped companies reposition their trade show programs to increase leads and sales, while driving out cost. Deanna has evaluated over 1,000 small booth exhibitors and provided on-the-spot feedback that can be easily implemented to drive immediate results. She holds a bachelor's degree in marketing from Arizona State University and is a gold level CTSM.
T0000 Exhibit Hall Tech Tour
W0000 Exhibit Hall Tech Tour
Jaclyn Lebert, CTSM, director of event technology, Markey's
Jaclyn Lebert obtained her CTSM in 2005 and utilized that knowledge to become a successful event manager for 20 years. She managed a 2 million budget for ProQuest which included a variety of corporate events including trade shows. An award-winning sales manager and degreed journalist, she's currently the Director of Event Technology at Markey's in Toledo. Her team provides various services to local hotels, event venues and the recently remodeled Glass City Center.
Ernie Magalotti, senior vice president of tradeshows, EFW Tradeshow
Ernie Magalotti is an expert in trade show and event shipping with over 25 years of experience in the logistics industry. In 2000, he founded Legacy Logistics, an event logistics company, and currently serves as the Sr. VP of Tradeshow for Estes Forwarding Worldwide, a leading United States domestic and international freight forwarder. EFW is a Richmond, Virginia based forwarder that provides a full array of transportation services.
Kristina Malloy, senior director of commercial marketing, Natus Medical
Kristina Malloy is the Sr Director of Commercial Marketing for Natus Medical Incorporated, she is responsible for the organization's go-to-market strategy, product positioning, new product introductions, marketing communications execution, digital marketing approach, and events for Neurodiagnostic and Neurocritical Care markets. Kristina graduated from Athabasca University after studying Business Management and Marketing, she immediately started her career in sales in 2001 for Xtlek (acquired by Natus in 2007) and she transitioned into Marketing.
Blake McCurdy, environmental design director, Freeman
Blake McCurdy has been designing and producing immersive face-to-face marketing experiences for 15 years. His body of work spans diverse markets for companies ranging from local business to Fortune 500. His work has won awards from multiple publications including Exhibitor Magazine. Currently an Environmental Design Director at Freeman, his resume includes international custom exhibit houses and close work with system manufacturers. He holds a B.S. in Industrial Design from the Georgia Institute of Technology.
Harriet Meehan, vice president of marketing, Exhibit Concepts
Harriet Meehan is the VP of Marketing for Exhibit Concepts. As the newest executive team member, Harriet drives strategic marketing, brand development, and customer experience. Additionally, she provides go-to-market strategies while working closely with leaders from each line of business. Prior to joining Exhibit Concepts, Harriet served in executive leadership roles at Kroger and LexisNexis and founded her own marketing consulting firm. In her consultancy role, Harriet has contracted with companies including Hewlett-Packard and Deloitte.
Jay Menashe, CTSM Gold, SVP sales & marketing, EDE
Jay Menashe - SVP of Sales and Marketing, EDE - An 19-year experiential marketing veteran. Jay has managed projects for a variety of clients. across technology, healthcare, manufacturing, and more! He has spent time as a marketing consultant, a solo contributor, and now a sales and marketing leader. Jay prides himself on asking questions to gain understanding. Helping build out strategies and solutions for clients to excel.
Bob Milam (CTSM candidate), Trade Show Bob
Trade Show Bob, a past All-Star Award winner, knows a few things about trade show performance. Bob has produced winning campaigns for companies in diverse industries from food ingredients, super-computing, and cosmetics, to water treatment, apartment leasing and computer graphics. Always on the lookout to add value to the trade show experience for attendees, exhibitors, and organizers alike, Bob loves to see companies' exhibit programs blossom under the leadership of competent and confident Exhibit Managers.
T0000 Exhibit Hall Tech Tour
W0000 Exhibit Hall Tech Tour
Eric Miller, president, TigerPresentations
Eric is the President/Founder of TigerPresentations, the premier portable, modular display company. Eric has been a leading product innovator in the tradeshow industry for more than thirty-five years, with a passion for helping exhibitors maximize their return on their display investments. He is widely recognized for developing the first portable backlit panel system, introducing the banner stand to the US market and, most recently, introducing the easy to assemble, super bright, portable, TigerBrite lightbox.
Nadra Mohy el Dine, head of the Events and Customer Experience Centers CoE, Philips
With two decades of experience in marketing and live events, Nadra has been quietly cultivating a significant industry presence. The Head of the Events and Customer Experience Centers for Philips, she oversees creation and delivery of all the brand's activations and events, as well as its innovative customer engagement centers. Understanding the power of engagement is central to her role, as Nadra explores dynamic ways to drive connection between the brand and its audiences.
Kodi Morton, CTSM Gold, senior marketing and events specialist, Bruker Scientific
Kodi has worked 16+ years for Bruker Corporation, developer of analytical x-ray, FT-IR and Mass Spec equipment. (Think CSI and Research Labs) Her responsibilities include event planning, implementation, review of budgets and campaigns. With a degree in English Education, she continues to gain knowledge at the show site and through resources like EXHIBITORLIVE. She considers herself an information enthusiast and looks forward to working with other professionals to create an excellent event.
Maddie Ogren, CTSM Gold, AVP client services and partner management, Access TCA
Maddie Ogren, AVP, Client Services and Partner Management at Access TCA, is responsible for providing high level, strategic direction and client satisfaction for key accounts, and manages relationships and contracts with preferred service partners. A CTSM graduate, Maddie received a BA from the University of New Mexico.
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.
T0010 Pathways to the Exhibitions and Events Industry's Sustainability through Workforce Development
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.
T0010 Pathways to the Exhibitions and Events Industry's Sustainability through Workforce Development
Sierra Reed, marketing director, The Trade Group
Sierra Reed is a seasoned marketing professional with over a decade of experience specializing in Account-Based Marketing. As the Marketing Director at The Trade Group, she brings a wealth of expertise to the trade show industry. Sierra is dedicated to sharing best practices and insights with fellow marketers, driven by her passion for elevating marketing standards within the trade show realm.
Steve Riches, CEO & principal, Laguna Displays
Steve Riches is CEO & Principal at Laguna Displays, a full-service provider of exhibit solutions for U.S. and international events. An experienced event marketing executive, he has extensive experience in European Exhibiting. Born in England, Steve is trilingual (French, Spanish, English) and a dual U.K./U.S. citizen. He is a Board Member & Education Committee Chair at IFES (International Federation of Exhibition & Event Services) and a Board Director at EACA (Exhibitor Appointed Contractor Association.)
Kevin Ruiz, Vice President of Strategy, Measurement, and Innovation, Spiro, Part of the GES Collective
Kevin Ruiz is Vice President of Strategy, Measurement, and Innovation for Spiro, Part of the GES Collective. He oversees the development and implementation of face-to-face measurement programs, technology, and services in addition to new product development and in-depth industry and market research. Kevin holds a BA in Anthropology and an MBA from the University of Wisconsin, as well as a certificate in marketing analytics from the MIT Sloan School of Management.
Ryan Schefke, founder and CEO, Captello
Ryan Schefke is Founder and CEO of Captello, the award winning, end-to-end lead capture and event engagement software platform. Coining the phrase "Universal Lead Capture", Ryan developed the platform to offer event professionals unprecedented flexibility and control of their lead capture and engagement processes by giving them full control of the lead management process, from customizable lead capture forms and digital gamification experiences to automated workflows, event automation and more.
Gina Schommer, global tradeshow manager of neuro, Natus Medical
Results-oriented, creative marketer with over 20 years of experience in global event planning, event strategy, execution, lead management, leadership and communication, with the ability and skill set to provide innovation, enthusiasm and forward-thinking leadership in a team environment. Gina is the Global Tradeshow Manager at Natus Medical and is continually looking at process improvements across the commercial marketing organization.
Vanessa Schultz, CTSM Gold, senior director of corporate marketing, Cellanome
Vanessa Schultz is the Senior Director of Corporate Marketing at Cellanome. With more than 17 years of event and marketing experience in the life sciences industry, Schultz is responsible for building the brand's corporate marketing function and strategy. Vanessa has served on the EXHIBITOR Industry Advisory Board, is a regular Sizzle Awards judge, and a leading voice in experiential marketing. Schultz has received her CTSM Gold Level Certification and holds a B.A. in International Business from SDSU.
Ian Sequeira, vice president of strategy, research and insights, Freeman
Ian Sequeira, VP, Strategy, Research & Insights at Freeman, has 39 years of research experience in the trade show and events industry. He is a well-respected industry speaker, an active member of IAEE, and a member of the CEIR Board of Directors. He also received IAEE's Distinguished Services Award. Ian has a B.S. degree in Economics from Allegheny College, Meadville, PA., and an MBA from the American University in Washington D.C.
Jessica Sibila, CTSM, executive director, The Exhibitor Advocate
Jessica is a seasoned marketer with a unique collection of experiences including strategic event marketing, philanthropy and corporate branding. Jessica has over 20 years' experience as an exhibitor and in show management. She most recently led the corporate event, community engagement and branding strategy for WhiteWave Foods and Danone North America, the largest certified B Corp in the world. Today, Jessica consults on event strategy and execution and leads The Exhibitor Advocate as Executive Director.
Pete Smith, president, SmithImpact
Stroke survivor. International speaker. Author. Coffee shop owner. Wrestling coach. Helping people run their race to win. Author of Dare to Matter, the #1 Best Seller in the HR and Personnel Management Category, and the #2 Best Seller in the Business Motivation and Self-Improvement category. Using a combination of hilarious wit and profound wisdom, Pete educates, entertains, and challenges his audiences to BE more, DO more, and MATTER more... and shows them how.
S4006 Dare to Matter
Courtney Soice, Chief Marketing Officer, Hamilton
Courtney Soice serves as Chief Marketing Officer at Hamilton and brings to Hamilton more than a decade of experience in successful marketing, account leadership, and engagement strategy. Courtney oversees and manages all marketing initiatives across the company, including strategic planning, brand development, demand generation, advertising, sales support, PR, SEO, and competitive bid efforts. Before joining Hamilton, Courtney held a high-impact position at Ogilvy & Mather in New York, where she helped grow their engagement strategy practice.
Julius Solaris, founder, Boldpush LLC
Julius Solaris is regarded as the most influential person in the event industry. He is the founder of Boldpush a management consultancy agency for the event industry. He founded EventMB (exit to Skift in 2019) and Showthemes, exit in 2018. He has worked for high-profile technology companies and tech events. Julius has been named one of the most influential individuals in the meetings industry by many magazines and media for the past 10 years.
Melanie Swanson, CTSM, diamond level, CMP, marketing specialist, Bruker
Melanie Swanson, CTSM Diamond, CMP, MBA Melanie has managed events for 30 years and was one of the first four CTSM graduates to achieve Diamond-level status in 2011. In 2018 Melanie won an EXHIBITOR All-Star Award for an innovative solution for reconfiguring booth assets to save material handling and shipping fees and maximize booth interactions. Melanie holds an MBA from the University of Wisconsin and volunteers with Team Rubicon, a veteran-led disaster response organization.
Jamie Talboom, CTSM Gold, manager, tradeshows and marketing, ATI Metals
Experienced event planner and trade show coordinator responsible for coordinating, managing and implementing activities associated with domestic and international military trade shows and events. Jamie has an M.A. in Communication from Purdue University Calumet where she focused on Intercultural Communication Competence, and a B.A. from Indiana University with a focus in Communications. She is able to successfully interact with all levels and types of individuals and has outstanding interpersonal skills.
Michael Thimmesch, principal, Thimmesch Marketing
For 30+ years, Mike has created and implemented innovative marketing, lead generation, and exhibiting strategies that profitably grow company sales and enhance brand awareness. Thimmesch rose to Director level at Skyline Exhibits, where he helped generate over a half million leads, resulting in over $1 billion in sales. He has published 11 industry white papers, eight exhibiting books, presented over 100 trade show webinars, and written over 500 blog posts.
Scott Tinkelman, president, Kevins Worldwide
Scott Tinkelman is in his 22nd year at Kevins Worldwide, one of the USA's largest suppliers of promotional products. As President of the family business, Scott is responsible for resolving complex organizational challenges, making big-picture decisions, and has responsibility for the firm's P&L. As a graduate of the Wharton School of Business and with a wealth of experience prior to joining the firm, Scott considers himself the "Rainman" of the Promotional Products Industry.
Greg Tivadar, creative director & president, EDE
Greg Tivadar is the award winning Creative Director at EDE. He has overseen the creative direction of hundreds of brands, and works not only on exhibit design, but content creation, graphic design, interactive design and video design in order to fully help clients drive their messaging and branding at Events throughout the world.
Michael Todisco, CEO, Apprenticeship Connections
With a decade of expertise, Michael has been instrumental in guiding multiple organizations to sponsorship success. In the last two years, he pioneered the inception of new trades -Bench Jeweler Production & Fitness Instructor. Michael's proficiency in policies and procedures ensures seamless program development and upkeep, meeting all related instructional requisites for sustained success. His robust connections with representatives and educational institutions amplify support, solidifying Michael's commitment to making apprenticeship programs flourish for any industry.
T0010 Pathways to the Exhibitions and Events Industry's Sustainability through Workforce Development
Scott Tokar, professional speaker, magician and founder of Corporate-FX, Tradeshow Magic Group
Scott Tokar is a professional speaker, Guiness World Record holder, magician and the founder of "Corporate-FX", Tradeshow Magic group. Since 1992, his company has helped hundreds of companies explain the features and benefits of their products using magic as a live communications medium in theater-style and aisle-view presentations worldwide.
Victor Torregroza, events and experiences program manager, Intel Corporation
Victor Torregroza is Experiences & Events program manager at Intel Corp. He delivers events as memorable moments of purpose and visual story that resonate in person and on screen. His mantra "we eat with our eyes" carries more weight as attendees reenter the world craving more meaningful engagements. A recipient of multiple industry awards, Torregroza believes in delivering lush, memorable moments that support the business and reach people on a sincerely heartfelt level.
Jamie Vandeberg, creative director, Exhibit Concepts
Jamie is a Designer, Interpretive Planner and Leader with over 25 years of experience creating memorable experiences. He has worked with an impressive list of diverse clients and project types from Fortune 500 companies all the way to local and regional museums. His passion - convince those who don't consider themselves to be "creative" to unleash their own unique creative perspectives on the world by constantly looking for ways to make creativity accessible to everyone.
Kalon Welch, EVP of business development, FastSensor
EVP of Business Development and Co-Owner, FastSensor Kalon is an executive with a demonstrated history of working consultatively at the intersection and collision of Events and Artificial Intelligence technology/IOT to help create and build brands and business. For FastSensor, he drives the global business expansion through technology and strategic partnerships along with overseeing all go to market functions. He often serves as an expert, invited speaker in the Events AI/IOT industry.
Cameron Wilkinson, copywriter, The Trade Group
Cameron Wilkinson is a University of North Texas graduate with a B.A. in English Literature. He leads the content and copywriting initiatives at The Trade Group. Beyond corporate writing, he has contributed articles to The Imaginative Conservative, addressing the rise of computers in kindergarten. He is a 3rd-degree black belt in Tae Kwon Do and a gold medalist on the Men's USA Team during the British TKD Championships in Kidderminster, U.K.
Michael Wohlitz, senior vice president of production and special events, Freeman
Michael Wohlitz, Senior Vice President, Production and Special Events, provides project management support and creative solutions to the account ownerships teams within Freeman. In this role, Michael and his team help increase cohesion between Sales and Operations, serving as a helpdesk for the sales process including show advance, deal design and preproduction support. Additionally the team assists in melding the strategic and creative visions with technical specificity and executable solutions.
Joerg Zeissig, CEO, Holtmann Group
Joerg has been at Holtmann Group as CEO since 2019, transforming and developing the group into a leading full service agency and community builder. Joerg started his career at Leipziger Messe (oldest show organizer in the world) in 1997 running international shows in Leipzig and abroad. After 2010 he took on several management roles in the event service and broadcasting industry in various locations. Joerg is married and has two children.