Christen Tye, CEM, Education Manager, Informa Markets/World of Concrete
Hometown: Dallas, TX
University of Education: Northwood University
How long have you been an IAEE member? 8 years
IAEE Chapter: IAEE DFW Chapter
How did you start your career in this industry?
My first taste of the industry started back in college during my first internship with a boutique full-service event planning company, The Event Lounge. I was a Sales and Marketing intern. I got to see the production and execution of their largest event a conference with a trade show. I was hooked from that moment on. My first “big kid” job was at the Dallas Convention Center where I was an Event Coordinator. During my time there, I saw events ranging from small receptions, concerts, sporting events, graduations to full building trade shows. I knew from my time there that I was a “lifer” in the industry. I have been in my current role with Informa on the World of Concrete show for the past 8 years. I can’t imagine any other industry to be in!
How has IAEE shaped your career?
IAEE has given me tools to help me where I am at in my career but also, I know IAEE is there for when I am ready to advance my career or shake things up. The connections that I have made because of IAEE are ones that I know I will have for life.
What advice would you give to a new member?
Network, network, network. Every connection you make with someone in the industry is so valuable. I can honestly say that some of my best friends in the world work within the industry. I know that if I have an issue that I can’t find a solution to, there are at least 20 people in my network that I can call at any time and brainstorm a solution or they can help point me in the right direction. Make yourself uncomfortable in situations that you might not know anyone because through that, you will find connections. It is also incredibly invaluable to have outside perspectives to your events or your processes. Make those connections and keep in contact. Utilize your local chapters! They are a wealth of knowledge and resources. Speaking for my chapter, they are amazing and talented people too!
Fun fact about you – What is one thing most people don’t know about you?
During college I was a member of a business club called Collegiate DECA. During one of my competitions, my partner and I were given a case study scenario that revolved around a trade show. Neither of us had a clue what a trade show was. When the judge asked us to define a trade show, my partner and I looked at each other in horror. Little did I know that Trade Shows would be my career and one of my passions. I think of that memory often and laugh.
What do you like most about your chapter?
When recently talking to someone from a different chapter the question was brought up “Oh you are actually real-life friends too?” and YES! There are quite a few people in my chapter that I am friends with beyond just professionally. We all know how to work hard but also play hard. It makes it easy when you truly enjoy one another’s company!That so many seasoned professionals still make time to give back and serve the local community.
What community service projects do you like to be involved in? Why?
I haven’t had a lot of time to be involved in community service projects. Our chapter annually volunteers with a local food bank. This has been a great opportunity for our members to give back. Our local Informa office supports Vogel Alcove, a school that focuses on children that are facing homelessness. Angel tree for Vogel Alcove is one of my favorite community service projects because putting a smile on a kid’s face and giving them a sense of normalcy is priceless.
What would you say is the #1 IAEE member benefit?
If I haven’t already mentioned it about 30 times in the previous questions but connections/networking. I really do love the network I have been able to create with IAEE and I know that I have so many people to call on if I needed a particular vendor, needed solutions to a problem my event was facing or just needed a fresh perspective.
What do you like most about Expo! Expo!?
I had the honor of attending Expo! Expo! once as a 20 under 30. The education, networking and vendors were all awesome! I learned a lot and had an amazing time! I cannot wait to get attend again. My show is in January, so it makes it hard to be gone from the office in December. Expo! Expo! is such a great place to meet likeminded industry individuals from beyond your chapter. It helps broaden your network and provides some great education that can be implemented at your events. Also, events people know how to have a great time!
How do you currently use social media for your events?
My marketing team does a great job of keeping our marketing fresh and relevant for our event. I use my personal page and my show specific industry connections to help promote our event.
