CHICAGO — In honor of Women’s History Month, Trade Show Executive (TSE) is talking with some of the industry’s powerhouse women leaders to hear more about the progress the industry has made in terms of gender equality, where there still needs to be improvement, misconceptions and more. TSE caught up with Julie Kagy, CEM, Executive Director of the Exhibition Services and Contractors Association (ESCA), for this installment of the Powerful Women Series.
Kagy, who has more than 20 years of experience in the trade show and events industry, took over the role of Executive Director of ESCA near the end of 2023, after serving as the Director of Education and then Director of Operations for the association. Prior to ESCA, she worked in various roles at GES, and first got her start in the hospitality industry at the Ritz Carlton Four Seasons Chicago.
We sat down with Kagy to discuss the role of women in the trade show and events industry, and her own experiences for this Powerful Women Series.
MADDY: How has the industry progressed in terms of gender equality over the course of your career?
JULIE: When I started, I didn’t notice the gender gaps as much — I was fortunate to have incredible employers, mentors and opportunities that helped me thrive. But as my career evolved and I found myself in more leadership spaces, I became increasingly aware of the biases and challenges women navigate. Sometimes it’s loud and clear; other times, it’s just a feeling you can’t quite put your finger on.
The good news is that the industry has made strides. We’re seeing more women step into impactful roles and redefining what leadership looks like. Women now make up a huge portion of the events world and you can’t walk into a room without feeling their influence.
But let’s be honest: while women are moving the needle, representation at the highest levels is still lacking. We’re in the room, but we need more seats at the decision-making tables.
MADDY: Where do we still need to improve?
JULIE: Unintentional bias continues to be an obstacle. Women are often viewed through a different lens than men, which can influence how they’re perceived in leadership roles or evaluated for opportunities. Assertiveness in men is seen as strength, but in women, it can sometimes be misread as something negative. But leadership isn’t about fitting a mold. It’s about the work you do and the impact you make.
Representation is another area. Women are present in the industry, but we need them in more boardrooms, more decision-making roles, and more places where their voices matter. And it’s not just about women — true diversity means opening doors for everyone, regardless of background.
Here’s the thing: diversity and balance are what make teams stronger. The goal isn’t to replace one group with another — it’s to create a table where all voices are heard and valued.
Related. Powerful Women Series: Lisa Hannant
MADDY: What are some misconceptions about women in this industry or in leadership that you’d like to dispel?
JULIE: How we define leadership has evolved.
The idea that women in leadership need to conform to a rigid or traditional leadership style to succeed is a misconception. Women bring a range of valuable traits to leadership — empathy, collaboration, problem-solving and adaptability — that are crucial to our industry’s success.
And let’s dispel this idea that women need to have all the answers or be 10 times more prepared to justify our place in the room. Leadership isn’t about pretending to know it all or being the loudest voice in the room. It’s about being authentic, working hard, learning every day and doing your best with integrity.
MADDY: What would be your advice to other women professionals in this industry?
JULIE: Don’t waste your energy trying to fit into someone else’s mold. Don’t let anyone tell you what you can or can’t do. Embrace your unique strengths, and don’t be afraid to show up as yourself. Work hard, ask questions and don’t shy away from challenges — growth can be uncomfortable, but it is necessary.
Surround yourself with people who support and challenge you, and invest in relationships. Mentorship is a two-way street — find those who can guide you and look for opportunities to pay it forward.
Finally, celebrate your wins, learn from your losses and always lift others as you climb.
MADDY: In honor of Women’s History Month, are there any women in your life, professionally or personally, that you’d like to give a shout-out to?
JULIE: First and foremost, my mom. She taught me what grit, resilience and tenacity look like in action.
I’d also like to celebrate Julia Smith, a friend and mentor whose wisdom and encouragement have shaped my path more than she knows.
And to all the women of our industry — those breaking barriers, challenging the status quo and paving the way for the next generation — you inspire me every single day.
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