Sometimes we wonder how people ever survived the 1800s without electricity, cell phones, computers, 7-Eleven and Starbucks, for God’s sake. Children of the next century may contemplate what life would have been like without artificial intelligence (AI).
From its origin the tradeshow industry has introduced technological advancements that have not only revolutionized modern society but the industry itself. From pop up displays to LEDs, telephones and radio to smartphones, the industry has been at the forefront of advancement.
I was excited to attend ISC West at the Venetian Expo Center in Las Vegas from March 23–27. Year after year, ISC West stands as the most influential gathering in physical security, public safety, and security‑driven technology. It’s where innovation, investment, and operational strategy converge. The 2026 event once again drew tens of thousands of leaders and more than 700 exhibitors, reinforcing its role as the industry’s central marketplace.
The exhibit and event industry is expanding. The talent pipeline to sustain it may not be. That is not a workforce issue, necessarily. It is more of a visibility issue.
Most young professionals do not know this career exists. They graduate with degrees in marketing, design, communications, and business, yet few are introduced to an industry where creativity meets strategy, where logistics meets storytelling, and where real-time problem solving drives measurable business results.
From generative design tools to predictive analytics, AI is embedded in how events are planned, marketed, and measured. But amid the excitement, event professionals are grappling with a nuanced question: How do we use technology to enhance human connection, not replace it?
Across the global exhibition industry, leadership roles—particularly at the CEO and executive level—remain predominantly held by men. While this imbalance exists worldwide, it is often more pronounced in Latin America, where cultural norms, structural barriers, and limited access to executive networks have historically slowed women’s advancement to top decision-making positions.
Women in Exhibitions Network, a global community launched in 2018 to accelerate the careers of women working in the sector, continues to grow its membership base around the world. With a mandate to deepen member engagement and broaden its impact, the North America Chapter today announced a new slate of directors who will serve through August 31, 2027.
Sparks, a global brand experience agency, today announced the appointment of Sebastian Dreyfus as Managing Director, EMEA. Based in London, Dreyfus reports directly to Melissa Levy, President of Sparks, and joins the Sparks Senior Leadership Team.
UFI, The Global Association of the Exhibition Industry, is pleased to announce the election results for Chair and Vice-Chair for its Associations Committee. The elected industry leaders will begin their three-year mandate at the 93rd UFI Global Congress in November 2026.
Growth isn’t the problem. The business just can’t keep up with what it’s being asked to do.
From the outside, it looks like momentum. Revenue is up. The pipeline is active. The team is bigger than it’s ever been.
Inside, it feels different.
