It often seems that our lives are just one disruption after another. Given all the personal and professional commitments, it can be hard to stay focused and engaged. I’d like to share a personal example. Earlier this month, I was on a flight and trying to get some work done on my laptop. However, as I sat in my aisle seat, the woman in the middle seat took off her sandals and put her bare feet up on the seat. She then placed one foot under her leg so that it came in contact with my leg. I did give the death stare, which caused her to pull away thankfully. She then proceeded to stick her bare foot into the seat pocket and ... I can’t go on. Really, what possesses people to behave like this? I know many of you have seen this behavior and have stories far worse. Point being, this behavior distracted me continuously for my flight. I kept one eye on this crazy situation unfolding for the duration.

On October 10, the Events Industry Council will induct three new members into the Hall of Leaders. Continuing the tradition of celebrating the best and brightest in the events industry, the Hall of Leaders awards celebration will take place in Las Vegas, Nevada, during IMEX America. Over the course of the next three weeks, the Events Industry Council will go one-on-one with the three honorees, tapping their insight on what it means to be a leader and their advice for a new generation of leadership in the events industry. This week we talk with David Peckinpaugh, a man who is seen throughout the events industry as a passionate leader and tireless advocate. His passion and advocacy on behalf of the events industry has earned David accolades and recognition from peers and organizations, including MPI Rise Award’s Meetings Industry Leadership, the Joint Meetings Industry Council’s Unity Award, Incentive Travel Council’s Advocate of the Year and one of Successful Meetings’ 25 Most Influential People.

This month’s edition of CMP Today focuses on advancing the profession. Check out special Q&As, thought leadership articles, special resources, and more – all based around the theme of help you advancing in your career.

You worked hard to become a Certified Meeting Professional (CMP). For those of you who must recertified by December 31, 2017, be sure to submit your application by August 31 to take advantage of the early application fee rate!

Last year, the Events Industry Council launched the CMP Career Center, designed to help you broaden industry connections, find the job that fits your needs or recruit qualified industry professionals.

Still haven’t registered for Conclave 2017? Our presenters share their thoughts on the importance of this event for advancing the industry. Read on and join us November 13-15 at the MGM National Harbor near Washington, D.C.

This year IMEX America celebrates its sixth year of providing high quality education and networking opportunities in addition to a first-class trade show for the global meetings, incentive travel and events industry. IMEX America 2017 will be held October 10-12 at the Sands Expo and Convention Center in Las Vegas, Nevada. In conjunction with IMEX America 2017, the Events Industry Council is hosting the Hall of Leaders and Pacesetter Awards Celebration October 10 from 5:30 pm – 8:00 pm, with an after party from 8:00 pm – 9:30 pm. We invite you to apply for Hosted Buyer status to join the Events Industry Council’s CMP Hosted Buyer Group for IMEX America 2017 in Las Vegas.

Check out our two upcoming webinars in our Sustainability Webinar Series. Be sure to register today!

Learn more about the Sustainable Event Professional Certificate taking place at CMP Conclave this November.

Delegates at the Events Industry Council spring meeting, whose members comprise the CEOs of more than 30 of the leading industry associations, were asked to identify trends shaping our industry. What resulted was a riveting discussion on the changing nature of the industry, the emergence of new tech trends and even the current state of political affairs. While the specific concerns going forward varied, what ultimately emerged were five key trends that event professionals should watch closely in the year ahead.

Established in 2012, the Pacesetter Awards recognize the valuable contributions individuals are making to impact the events industry today as well as charting the course for a thriving future. The 2017 Pacesetter award winners are recognized for their contributions for innovation, sustainability and as a young professional in the events industry. Three Pacesetter award winners will be recognized at the 2017 Hall of Leaders awards celebration on October 10, 2017 in Las Vegas, Nevada, during IMEX America. Over the course of the coming weeks, we conduct a special Q&A with each to uncover the path they took and the future direction of their career. This week: Pacesetter for Innovation – Dan Berger, CEO, Social Tables

Check out this month's CMPs on the Move!