CHICAGO — March represents Women’s History Month in the U.S. — a month dedicated to recognizing the impact women have made across industries and society, celebrating their achievements and addressing the persistent equality gaps that are yet to be solved.
Looking at the events industry specifically, women make up about 75% of the global events workforce, yet only 20% of C-suite roles globally are held by women. This gap can be lessened through efforts around mentorship and sponsorship, being conscious of what voices are represented in decision-making rooms, pushing for compensation equity and much more. Positioning yourself to grow your network vertically and horizontally can also increase your visibility and keep you top-of-mind when new opportunities arise.
In honor of Women’s History Month and pursuing progress in gender equity, Trade Show Executive (TSE) put together a roundup of resources and events dedicated to women in the live events industry.
Upcoming Industry Events
- IAEE’s Women’s Leadership Forum (April 27-28): The International Association of Exhibitions and Events (IAEE)® hosts its annual forum with topics designed to be unique to women in the events industry. There are no age, individual situation or current position requirements to attend.
- SISO’s Women’s Leadership Forum (Aug. 18-20): On the first day of SISO’s Leadership Conference, programming includes a Women’s Leadership Forum, which is open to both men and women.
- MPI’s World Education Conference (June 2-4): Meetings Professionals International will have dedicated sessions focused on women in the industry at its upcoming event in San Antonio.
Networking Groups and Industry Organizations
- Women in Exhibitions Network: The Women in Exhibitions Network is a global membership-based organization that empowers women through in-person meet-ups, live events and virtual education.
- Women in Hospitality Leadership Alliance: The Women in Hospitality Leadership Alliance aims to advance women in hospitality by amplifying programs, messaging and initiatives that help bring women into leadership roles.
- GBTA’s WINiT: The Global Business Travel Association’s WINiT community drives women forward in their career through programming, tools, resources and networks.
Recognition Programs
- TSE’s Women to Watch: This program recognizes rising talent in the trade show industry each fall; nominations will open in May 2026.
- Smart Women in Meetings Awards: Meetings industry publisher Smart Meetings recognizes women in the industry across categories of Rising Stars, Stellar Performers, Industry Leaders, Innovators, Entrepreneurs, Visionaries and the Hall of Fame.
- IAEE Cathy Breden Woman of Achievement Award: Each year, IAEE recognizes an industry leader who demonstrates outstanding leadership and has made significant contributions to the industry and their community.
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