submitted by Tammy McGlade, EpIQ, on behalf of ESCA
PITTSBURGH, PA – The Exhibition Services & Contractors Association (ESCA) partnered with the David L. Lawrence Convention Center to host an evening of skill-building and professional development for event industry professionals. The training emphasized hospitality’s role in solidifying Pittsburgh as a premier destination for events and exhibitions.
The program emphasized the critical role of customer service in creating memorable experiences for event organizers, exhibitors, and attendees. Participants learned strategies for managing high-pressure situations, building stakeholder relationships, and delivering exceptional service.
“Customer service is the cornerstone of our industry, and this program reflects our commitment to showcasing Pittsburgh’s exceptional hospitality and professionalism,” said Tim Muldoon, General Manager of the David L. Lawrence Convention Center. “It’s about equipping our team to deliver experiences that reflect Pittsburgh’s welcoming spirit.”
Attendees, including union members and labor professionals, explored actionable strategies to handle challenges with confidence and ensure every interaction reflects the professionalism and hospitality for which the David L. Lawrence Convention Center is known. By fostering a culture of excellence, the training program supports Pittsburgh’s status as a top-tier destination for events and exhibitions.
“This program helps elevate not only our workforce but also the reputation of our entire city,” shared Bob Tarby, Director of Trade Shows at the Eastern Atlantic States Regional Council of Carpenters. “It’s a powerful reminder of how every role contributes to an event’s success.”
The training, free to all participants, offered complimentary parking, refreshments, and a raffle drawing to recognize attendees’ commitment to professional growth. These added touches underscored the value ESCA places on its community and workforce.
“Programs like these align perfectly with ESCA’s mission to advance service standards and advocate for industry professionals,” noted Julie Kagy, Executive Director of ESCA. “We are proud to support initiatives that empower individuals and strengthen the exhibition community.”
“As a presenter, it’s incredibly rewarding to see participants leave with the confidence to excel in their roles,” added Odie Parkins, Training Session Presenter. “This program isn’t just about skills—it’s about pride in the work we do and the impact we have.”
About ESCA
The Exhibition Services & Contractors Association (ESCA) is dedicated to advancing service and advocacy in the exhibitions industry. Through collaboration, training, and innovative initiatives like the Customer Service Training Program, ESCA remains committed to setting industry benchmarks for excellence.
About the David L Lawrence Convention Center
Pittsburgh’s environmentally smart, LEED® Gold Certified David L. Lawrence Convention Center located in Pittsburgh is owned by the Sports & Exhibition Authority of Allegheny County. This 1.5 million-square-foot facility features 313,000 square feet of exhibit space, 37 loading docks, 53 meeting rooms and a 31,000-square-foot ballroom. The building’s dynamic architectural design is like no other convention center, offering breath- taking views, open terraces and a suspended roof structure.
About LEED
LEED® (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Green Building Rating System TM is a feature-oriented rating system that awards buildings points for satisfying specified green building criteria. The six major environmental categories of review include: Sustainable Sites, Water Efficiency, Energy and Atmosphere, Materials and Resources, Indoor Environmental Quality and Innovation and Design. Certified, Silver, Gold and Platinum levels of LEED green building certification are awarded based on the total number of points earned within each LEED category.
