CHICAGO — Trade Show Executive (TSE) is celebrating the 2026 TSE Trailblazers throughout the month of June. These 10 up-and-comers were selected due to their exceptional innovation, leadership and impact in the events industry, and were celebrated at the 2026 TSE Fastest 50 Awards & Summit.
We are kicking things off with Rebecca Burns, Conference Content Manager at Informa Markets.
According to the organization, Burns’ contributions to SupplySide Global 2025 have set new benchmarks for success and redefined industry standards: Her work expanding the scope and quality of its education helped the show achieve a 25.8% year-over-year increase in education session registrations in 2025.
We sat down with Burns to discuss her accomplishments and career journey.
ANDREW: What brought you to the trade show industry?
REBECCA: The trade show industry discovered me years ago when I was demonstrating tabletop ware at large events, and the passion it ignited has stayed with me ever since.
Initially, connecting and engaging with people felt intimidating, but the fulfillment it brought kept driving me forward.
ANDREW: What do you enjoy the most about your work?
REBECCA: I truly enjoy having the freedom to brainstorm and develop ideas, whether they are big or small. I owe a great deal of gratitude to my director, Amanda, for her open-mindedness and for encouraging me to experiment, learn from mistakes and grow.
ANDREW: Could you describe how you identify opportunities for growth and implement transformative strategies?
REBECCA: In an ever-evolving space, I always ask myself, “How would I want to be a part of this?”
That question guides me toward creating experiences that reel people in for a real connection and, most importantly, a lasting memory.
ANDREW: How did you help expand the scope and quality of SupplySide Global’s education?
REBECCA: I stepped into a role with a strong framework already in place and focused on how to make our Conference Team stand out; through social media, guided tours and exploring new elements with the team post-show. It wasn’t about reinventing the wheel, but rather about elevating and adding thoughtful touches.
ANDREW: How have you helped drive attendee engagement?
REBECCA: I took a proactive approach by developing a dedicated social media calendar tailored specifically to our Conference content.
It’s not perfect, and that’s exactly the point, the imperfection creates room for growth and keeps the content authentic and engaging.
ANDREW: What has been the proudest moment of your career so far?
REBECCA: Stepping on stage at SupplySide Global to moderate two panels I had stayed up nights planning for was the most thrilling experience of my career.
Delivering a carefully crafted message to the audience was incredibly rewarding, and I’m already looking forward to doing it again.
ANDREW: What are your keys to success?
REBECCA: Success lies in having the courage to show up as your most authentic self and embracing discomfort as a catalyst for growth.
Events are dynamic and multifaceted, and learning to embrace that is essential.
ANDREW: What challenges have you encountered in your career, and how have you overcome them?
REBECCA: My biggest challenge has been holding myself back from taking brave leaps and trying new things I’ve always wanted to try. I’m working through that by leaning into courage and reminding myself that the discomfort is always worth it.
ANDREW: How do you stay motivated and avoid burnout?
REBECCA: The SupplySide content team keeps me going. I’ve never felt this supported in my career, and it’s such an incredible, contagious energy.
When it comes to avoiding burnout, I make it a point to step away and really be present with my family, especially time with my son. They’re my anchor and my recharge.
Whether it’s an evening at home or a trip I’ve been planning with my best friend of over 30 years, those moments remind me what’s most important and help me stay grounded.
ANDREW: What advice would you give to an events industry up-and-comer?
REBECCA: Focus on building your confidence and faith in yourself every single day.
Strengthen it to the point where you end each day knowing that everything will work out. You are more than capable and deserving and let that be the foundation you build your career on.
To get more Trailblazer Q&As, subscribe to TSE’s free e-newsletter on LinkedIn or through your email.
