(the above image is a concept idea for the cover of the Q1 Print for ECN)
Coming Soon! Exhibit City News releases their 2024 Trend Predictions. Dozens of the event industries top executives share their thoughts with Chris Kappes, strategic advisor for ECN and industry executive. Kick-off your New Year with an essential list of trends impacting the industry and your business.
Excerpt:
by Chris Kappes
May we live in the most interesting of times. Originally a curse, attributed tenuously to the Chinese, bespeaks a preference for order over change. In a world marked by relentless digital transformation, the tradeshow industry is encountering unprecedented change, challenges and exciting transformations. As we continue to emerge from the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, one thing is crystal clear – live events are here to stay. A recent survey indicates that a staggering 90% of business event delegates felt a negative impact from the absence of live events. However, this crisis has ushered in a new reality, one where the industry must adapt and reset for the future. So, what are the top industry trends, and what do leaders from across the industry have to say? Let’s explore.
Trend One: Talent Shortage & New Labor
One of the most pressing issues facing the industry today is a shortage of skilled labor. It’s widely known that there aren’t enough young people entering skilled trades overall. Experts reveal that the average age of skilled tradespeople is 45, while the average age of American office workers is 44. This glaring age difference can’t be corrected until more young individuals choose trade careers over traditional four-year degrees.
The Wall Street Journal recently suggested that the diminishing focus on shop classes and skilled trades in schools is a key factor. With so much emphasis on preparing for college, there’s less opportunity for high school students to explore manual skills. A Thumbtack survey backs this up, showing that 82% of young people are told that college is the only path to success, with 59% feeling pressure from family and society to attend a four-year college. Unfortunately, one-third of those surveyed revealed they were never offered shop classes in high school, which often serve as a gateway to skilled trades. Without this exposure, many students don’t even consider trade school as a viable career option.
To read this full story, please grab a copy of the Quarter 1 Print for Exhibit City News coming in January. A copy of the print will be available digitally through ISSUU, link forthcoming. The full article will be posted online later in January or February, for digital consumption.
