By Kristie Chicki, CEM-AP | Principal Project Manager | A2Z Events
My career in event management is fueled by a genuine love for bringing people together and a deep appreciation for the energy and effort that go into creating meaningful experiences. When I began my journey in the event world, there were few dedicated programs for event management, and the skills I developed were largely learned through experience and on-the-job training. From my first exposure to the world of trade shows, I was drawn to the high-energy atmosphere, the precision required to manage countless moving parts, and the human connections at the heart of every successful event. For me, it wasn’t just about logistics – it was about creating something memorable that would leave a lasting impression.
My professional journey began at William T. Glasgow, Inc., where I served as a Trade Show Manager. In this role, I supported major events, including the Billiard Congress of America Expo and the Automotive Aftermarket Products Expo (AAPEX). These early projects offered me a hands-on education in the dynamics of large-scale event coordination, vendor relationships, and multi-stakeholder collaboration. I quickly earned a reputation not only for my operational skill but also for my warmth, adaptability, and enthusiasm.
In 2005, I took a pivotal step by joining A2Z Events by Personify, a leader in event management software solutions. This transition expanded my reach and impact in the industry, enabling me to collaborate with a diverse range of associations and event professionals. As I advanced within the company, I took on leadership roles that spanned sales, client strategy, and product implementation. I led teams and partnered across departments to deliver solutions that made events more efficient and more engaging. At every stage, my focus remained the same: use technology to enhance – not replace – the human experience.
While I originally envisioned a career in Human Resources, I embraced the unexpected turn toward event management with curiosity and determination. Wanting to deepen my expertise, I pursued formal industry education. In 2019, I earned the Certified in Exhibition Management® (CEM) designation, followed by the prestigious CEM Advanced Professional (CEM-AP) in 2025. These achievements reflect not just my commitment to excellence but also my dedication to lifelong learning and mentoring others in the field.
Today, accredited universities offer dedicated event management programs that provide formal education and specialized training. I’m excited to see how the field has evolved, offering young professionals more structured pathways for advancement. However, I firmly believe that the professional certifications I earned – such as the Certified in Exhibition Management (CEM) in 2019, followed by the CEM-Advanced Professional (CEM-AP) designation in 2025 – remain crucial additions to any event professional’s portfolio. These certifications not only validate a deep level of expertise but also ensure that even in an ever-evolving industry, professionals like me remain on the cutting edge of trends, technology, and best practices.
For me, event management has always been more than just a career – it’s a calling. From my early days to my current leadership roles, my journey underscores the power of passion, dedication, and continuous growth in shaping the future of events.
