This Conference and Event Planner diploma. prepares students for a career in the fast-paced and exciting world of conference and event management. It’s a flourishing industry, and there is a steady need for qualified persons to plan and execute successful events. The wide variety of workplace options makes Conference and Event Planning a very popular career option.

During our 50-week program, you’ll learn to plan, organize and coordinate conferences, conventions, meetings, seminars, exhibitions, trade shows, festivals and many other events. We’ll work with you on your decision-making and communication skills, customer service and so much more. This program makes sure you’re proficient in the Microsoft Office and other software applications that are crucial in this industry.

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

One of the most appealing aspects of a career in Conference and Event Planning is the diversity of responsibilities and the opportunity to flex the creative muscles.

Planners meet with trade and professional associations to promote and discuss conference, convention and trade show services. They may also meet with sponsors to discuss the possibility of backing an event, or sit down with organizing committees to plan the scope, format and theme of an event.

Planners need to set a budget to cover the expenses related to an event they are organizing. This can include such things as transportation and accommodations for guests, renting facilities for the event, catering, displays, printing of promotional items, audio-visual personnel and rentals and more. Planners must then monitor expenses carefully to stay within that budget. Planners must remain in contact with their clients to update them on the progress of the planning, having event-related expenses and products approved, and so much more. Planners also market and promote events, negotiate contracts for services, maintain financial records, send invoices and manage payments. It’s a demanding and fast-paced career.

SKILLS & ATTRIBUTES

Because of the fast pace of the job and the many different duties undertaken, the Conference and Event Planners must possess a number of important skills and personal attributes, including:

Stress management is crucial

Superior management, organizational and marketing skills

Superior problem-solving and decision-making skills

Excellent problem-solving skills

A good grasp of commonly-used software, Internet and e-mail programs

Good interpersonal and negotiating skills

Diplomacy, flexibility and patience

An understanding of social media (Facebook, Twitter) is a bonus

Ability to take charge and yet still work within a team

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

Graduates from Conference and Career Planning program find employment in a number of industries, including:

Self-employment in conference or event planning

Tourism and trade industries

Convention and conference centres

Professional associations

Event-planning companies

Trade associations

And many more!