Eventex B2B Match Highlights: Nourishing the Events Workforce with Laura Palker

If you’ve missed Laura Palker at Eventex B2B Match, don’t worry — we’ve got you covered with her talk about improving the events workforce. Laura presented her ideas and practical steps to tackle workforce challenges, support new talent, and seize future opportunities.

Here’s what you’ve missed and what you need to know to prepare for the future of the events industry.

Building, Supporting, and Protecting Tomorrow’s Exhibitions and Events Industry Workforce

Laura highlights the need to revitalize the live events workforce after the disruptions caused by the pandemic. She presents several key initiatives to make the industry more welcoming to new talent and to help it succeed in the future.

Some key actions include:

• Veterans programs — aligning veterans’ skills with roles in the events industry.
• School partnerships — introducing students to career opportunities in events.
• Apprenticeship opportunities — offering Department of Labor-backed programs in roles like account management, logistics, and on-site supervision.

These programs not only provide essential skills but also create a supportive and welcoming environment for newcomers.

Adapting to innovation and change

Technology is also transforming the events industry. From AI and automation to hybrid events and cutting-edge LED displays — these upgrades are creating new possibilities.

These innovations further represent an opportunity to reimagine how events are designed and delivered.

The importance of mentorship

Mentorship is another important facet for shaping future professionals in the event industry. Every apprentice should receive training in customer service and leadership, helping them to mentor others as early as six months into their careers.

In addition, many retired professionals or those no longer working in the industry are eager to share their knowledge. Through virtual mentorship programs, these experts can guide young talents from anywhere in the world, making mentorship more accessible than ever. This approach ensures a steady cycle of growth, learning, and collaboration within the events community.

Managing stress in a high-pressure industry

Laura also shares some valuable tips on managing stress in the fast-paced events industry, including: 

• Maintaining a solid health and wellness routine 
• Mastering stress-management techniques like focused breathing
• Making the time for self-care, such as scheduling relaxing activities after intense work periods, to recharge and maintain balance.

If you want to learn more about rebuilding and nourishing the event workforce, watch the live session for free.

About Laura Palker

Laura Palker is the Founder and CEO of Trade Show Solutions Center, a leader in exhibit planning and design. She also founded the Exhibitions and Events Workforce Development Federation, which addresses workforce challenges in the live events industry. With over 30 years of experience, Laura is passionate about mentoring, innovation, and building a thriving community of event professionals.

About Eventex B2B Match

Eventex B2B Match makes it easy for event professionals to connect with people from all over the world, join live sessions with industry superstars, and find fresh ideas to take their work to the next level.

‍