The Path Ahead For 2027: IAEE's Vision For The New Year, Industry Updates, And Trends

Michelle Edmonson, CEM, is the Vice President of Exhibitions for The Association For Manufacturing Technology (AMT) and leads the IMTS brand – which includes the Trade Show (International Manufacturing Technology Show) and its digital component (IMTS+). With over 30 years of experience in managing and overseeing large-scale events, Michelle has been instrumental in driving the success and growth of her organization. Her leadership and strategic vision have significantly enhanced AMT’s and IMTS’ reputation and expanded their reach in the industry. Michelle's ability to foster strong relationships and work effectively with diverse teams has been a key factor in her success. Michelle proudly serves on the Boards of Directors for IAEE (International Association of Expositions & Events), and she is an active member of the CABs for Choose Chicago, Metropolitan Pier and Exposition Authority, and Maritz. When not working, she enjoys reading, baking and spending time with her family and friends.  

Marsha Flanagan, M.Ed., CEM is the President and CEO of the International Association of Exhibitions and Events® (IAEE). As IAEE’s president, Flanagan is responsible for the management of IAEE’s full-time professional staff, producing the annual business operating plan and budget, overseeing the support of all meetings of governance units, leading business development, directing fund raising efforts, advocating for the industry and the organization’s members, providing organizational leadership and strategic counsel to the board. Also, she serves as the association’s representative with industry coalitions, partner organizations and strategic alliances.

Prior to joining PPAI, Flanagan was the Director of Content Strategy and Development at the Promotional Products Association International (PPAI), where she was responsible for steering strategy and the development and delivery of all PPAI professional development and editorial offerings. Flanagan spent 6 years in the medical industry serving in various roles overseeing operations, purchasing, revenue cycle management, marketing and business development. 

Flanagan began her career with Meeting Professionals International (MPI) and spent 12 years in various roles including Executive Vice President of Professional Development where she oversaw operations, including all strategic partnerships, the design and delivery of all professional development offerings and meetings management. She was named one of the 25 Most Influential People in the Meetings Industry by Successful Meetings in 2017 and named to BizBash’s Inaugural Top 500 in the Events Industry in 2018 and 2019. In 2021, she was listed in Meetings Today as a 2021 Trendsetter. In 2021, she obtained her GBAC Trained Technician Certificate of Completion from the Global Biorisk Advisory Council (GBAC), a division of ISSA. Flanagan received her bachelor's degree from Texas Christian University and her master’s in education from the University of Arkansas specializing in Meeting, Tourism and Recreation Management. She obtained her Certified in Exhibition Management designation in 2021. Flanagan is a 5th generation Texan, loves sports and the outdoors and spending time with family.