The IAVM Foundation, in partnership with Western Kentucky University (WKU), has developed a phenomenal program designed to provide unprecedented networking and education for students and young professionals beginning their careers in venue management. On Saturday, August 1, before the full VenueConnect conference begins, young professionals and students will learn career skills from venue industry leaders, make new connections with executives from major venues, and gain fresh professional development insights through a packed schedule of customized sessions and events.
“Have you seen the UpStart schedule?” asked Jason Rittenberry, CFE, chair of the IAVM Foundation, “This is the perfect opportunity for young talent looking for a launchpad into our industry. It is fantastic to see the IAVM Foundation bringing this new experience to VenueConnect, and WKU has been a great partner to help us build what I think is going to be a big hit.”
Recently added to the UpStart program is the opening keynote, Doug Sandler. Author of Nice Guys Finish First (all UpStart attendees are walking away with a copy of his book!), Sandler brings with him more than 20 years of experience in the entertainment world with thousands of clients. He’ll tackle the massive threat that not caring poses to companies and systems, and will dive into the art of building relationships with clients versus simply closing deals.
Other session highlights include “Thinking Outside the Box,” lead by Mark Gnatovic, senior vice president of SearchWide; “How Our Generation Can Use LinkedIn For Professional Branding,” lead by Whitney Harmel, director of sales for Brandobility; and “Advancing Your Career,” lead by Bryan Kaminski, senior manager of university recruiting and programs for Under Armour. Attendees will also participant in a new speed-networking program, “The Game Changer,” where they will get crucial face-to-face time and personal introductions to major venue industry leaders.
UpStart is free for students, young professionals, and faculty, and is made possible through the support of IAVM members, venue industry leaders, and other partners that have supported the IAVM Foundation’s Build An Amazing Future campaign.
WKU’s support of UpStart is instrumental in the program’s creation. We spoke with Dr. Evie Oregon, an assistant professor in sport management, to learn more about the university and its involvement in the program.
IAVM: Why did WKU decide to be involved in the UpStart program?
EO: WKU’s School of KRS recognizes that a professional network is imperative for our graduates. By partnering with IAVM in the UpStart program, we are not only helping to facilitate that network, but are also providing uninhibited access to current professionals in the field.
IAVM: What do you hope young professionals and students takeaway with them by participating in the program?
EO: Traditional classroom can only provide so much in terms of knowledge of the current industry. It is our hope that our students, and young professional in general, who attend the UpStart program will not only enhance their knowledge of the field, but also increase their professional network and obtain connections for career advancement and professional development.
IAVM: How do you see this program evolving?
EO: We would like to see that the program grows in the future and have far reaching effects on the careers of participants. It would be great to have the young professionals who are attending this inaugural event to one day be the keynotes who can say…it all began a few years ago with UpStart.
IAVM: What can WKU’s masters program provide to current professionals looking to continue their education?
EO: The Masters in Facility and Event Management at WKU is a 100 percent online program that allows current professional and those looking to enter the field a practical approach to learning more about the industry. The program courses are facilitated by highly experienced professionals who began their own careers in the field of recreation and sport facility management. The program model is flexible while at the same time providing course sequencing that insures a path to degree attainment.
Please check out the UpStart website to learn more about the program. Registrations for both UpStart and VenueConnect are still taking place, but rooms in the main conference hotels are filling quickly, so register soon and visit the VenueConnect travel page for current hotel options.
