Concluding our two-part series with Cvent’s Kelli Kopec and Maritz’ Steve O’Malley, this conversation explores event industry expectations and trends for 2026.

Event professionals from two of the biggest names in the industry—Cvent’s Kelli Kopec and Maritz’ Steve O’Malley—reflect on the year that was. 

Simone Miller and Avis Petrie on creating a convention and cultural experience they’d want to attend. This conversation with the amateur, Gen Z event planners behind DashCon 2 is a testament to the interest and skill of the youngest generation of working adults entering the industry.

Caitlin Gaborow and Emily Dietrich discuss the challenges facing next-gen eventpros and what the industry must do to attract and keep new talent.

Rachel Andrews and Michael Farrell share what they’re seeing in event design as well as the factors driving those trends.

Andrea Driessen and MaryAnne Bobrow discuss the importance of focusing on well-being and giving thanks in the meeting and event industry.

A conversation about the opportunities, challenges and excitement in event tech with Allyson Keenan from CVENT and Tammy Bradley from AV-CANADA.

Two event professionals—Tara Liaschenko and Molly Marsh—and author Maggie Jackson (“Uncertain: The Wisdom and Wonder of Being Unsure”) explore the pitfalls and potential of uncertainty.

Laura Kesselman and Leanne Calderwood discuss the importance of keeping your physical, digital and mental space organized.

Planners discuss the importance of person-to-person knowledge sharing and lifelong learning, while also offering advice on establishing mentor-mentee relationships.