by H. K. Wilson
Allison Trost is vice president of CEP International, a division of Chicago Exhibit Productions Inc. that services international exhibitors in the US and domestic companies that wish to exhibit their brand outside of the US. Allison has been with the CEP International for a decade, distinguishing herself by developing an extensive network of partners throughout the world. She is a leader not only within her company, but in the industry at large, serving as a member of the OSPI Executive Committee.
H. K. Wilson: What inspired you to enter the exhibits industry?
Allison Trost: The tradeshow industry is a very fast-paced, ever-changing environment. As a person who enjoys challenges, I love working in an industry where I consistently have variety in what I do, and it is not the same every day. Every show, client and project is different and it really keeps the work that I do very exciting.
HKW: What was it that made you want to join CEP Intl.?
AT: During my time in college at Illinois State University, I had the opportunity to study abroad for a semester in Italy. During my time in Italy, I was able to see different parts of the world, which really piqued my interest in international business. When I joined CEP, one of the company goals was to grow the international division, and this was something that I really was excited about and wanted to be a part of.
HKW: Tell me about your role with the company.
AT: As vice president of CEP International, one of my main roles is to establish and retain partnerships with other exhibit builders from abroad. These international partners are a big revenue stream for CEP, and it is my responsibility to execute projects here in the US on behalf of our different partners. At the same time, our international department assists a number of our flagship accounts with their international tradeshow program.
HKW: What are the qualities that make you and your team so successful?
AT: At CEP, we strive for a “no surprises” experience, and our well-developed standard operating procedures provide our team with a roadmap that helps guide our different account teams through every project, offering high-quality services and high-quality exhibits and environments, with total client satisfaction being our ultimate goal.
HKW: As a woman in the industry, how has CEP supported/created opportunities for you to grow professionally?
AT: During the very early years in my career, CEP allowed me to play a very active and instrumental role in developing our international presence, and I have been very fortunate to be a member of the OSPI Executive Committee for a number of years. This has not only given our company a lot of international credibility, but also has allowed me to broaden my horizons by developing long-term partnerships with exhibit builders across the globe. Here at CEP, I am also a member of our management team and oversee a number of company initiatives.
HKW: Where is your favorite place that you have ever traveled, and why?
AT: Italy — it will always be a second home for me!
HKW: What advice do you have for other women who are seeking leadership opportunities in the industry?
AT: Know and trust in your knowledge and abilities. Look for opportunities to build your self-knowledge, skills and networks. Support and motivate your team to reach their potential. You don’t have to change the world single-handedly, but you can be part of the change. With passion, awareness and a drive to bring your team with you on the journey, there’s no limit to what you can achieve!
HK: What is special about bringing people together from around the world?
AT: I have always valued having the opportunity to network with people from other parts of the world, because it is such an effective way to exchange ideas, gain new perspectives and learn something new. Having all of my different connections around the world has allowed CEP to, in turn, pass this value onto our clients. We are able to use the knowledge that we have from our local partners and apply it to our clients’ international tradeshow programs, offering one source and one point of contact for turnkey solutions worldwide.
HKW: What is on the horizon at CEP that you are most excited about?
AT: CEP is placing a lot of emphasis on attracting youth to our industry so that we can advance well into the future. I look forward to our team and I having the opportunity to share our knowledge and experiences with the next generations.
