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Members of PCMA’s 20 in Their Twenties class of 2019 see a bright future for the business events industry, a future to which they plan to contribute. Emily Dietrich shares her impressions of and expectations for the industry.
What do you like most about your job?
My favorite aspect of my job is that every day is different. Niagara Parks encompasses such a wide range of offerings for business events. One day I may be planning a large gala overlooking the brink of Niagara Falls and arranging to illuminate the Falls in my client’s company colors. The next day I could be planning for a corporate group to visit our attractions along the Niagara River and finish off with dinner on an outdoor terrace with a panoramic view of Niagara Falls and a custom fireworks display. I love to inspire my clients with the possibilities, and the variety in each event keeps it interesting.
Where would you like your career to go?
In the short term, I would like to obtain my CMP designation and continue to seize opportunities that give me a chance to increase my skill set. In the long term, I hope to play a role in establishing Niagara as a dominant business events destination and to do my part in driving the events industry forward by encouraging emerging leaders in the next generation.
What’s the best day you’ve had in the meetings industry so far?
The day I heard I was named one of PCMA’s 20 in Their Twenties is definitely one of my best days. Really, this industry just keeps inspiring me. The more involved I get and the more wonderful people I meet make each milestone better than the last. I’m sure the best is yet to come.
What will be the biggest change in the industry over the next 20 years?
I hope it will be increased gender equality. Our industry has a huge lack of women in senior-executive positions. I also believe this industry will play a role in the next wave of feminism and be part of a movement of fighting oppressions in all the other industries we touch. Meetings and conventions are very powerful tools to unite everyone and promote change. As planners and suppliers, we have the unique opportunity to influence so many other industries and sectors each time we bring them together. By empowering women in all roles of our events (speakers, attendees, etc.), we can encourage change for women in the workplace, one meeting at a time.