CONFERENCE AND EVENT PLANNER

Program Benefits

– Prepares you for valuable industry certifications

– Market-driven programs

– Growing demand for professionals in this area

Admission

– Grade 12 or equivalent

– Mature student status (18 years of age or older) and a passing score on the entrance examination

Career Opportunities

– Conference and Meeting Planner

– Conference Planner

– Conference Services Officer

– Convention Coordinator

– Event Planner

Program Highlights

Meetings, events, and conventions represent one of the fastest-growing sectors of the economy and intersect with nearly every industry. The Conference and Event Planner Diploma is designed to prepare students for careers in the dynamic and fast-paced field of conference and event management. This program is ideal for individuals who are energetic, outgoing, creative, and entrepreneurial, as conference and event planners play an active and influential role within organizations.

The program aims to expose students to a wide range of knowledge, administrative processes, and practical tools that support effective decision-making in conference and event planning careers. Graduates will gain the foundational skills needed to advance into higher-level roles with the appropriate combination of experience, personal strengths, and continued professional development. Through this program, students will gain:

The knowledge and practical skills required to lead or support the planning and execution of conferences and events across various business sectors
An overview of key elements involved in planning, coordinating, and managing event logistics
Professional skills highly valued by employers, including negotiation, decision-making, teamwork, communication, customer service, leadership, research, and problem-solving
A strong understanding of event planning principles and marketing strategies
Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications

* Not all programs are available at every location.

Career Opportunities

Graduates of this program find employment with tourism organizations, trade and professional associations, convention and conference centres, government agencies, and event planning companies. Career paths aligned with the skills developed in this program include:

Conference and Meeting Planner
Conference Planner
Conference Services Officer
Convention Coordinator
Event Planner
Special Events Organizer
Trade Show Planner

Core Courses

Upon successful completion of the program, participants must demonstrate competency in the following areas:

Operating Systems

Basic proficiency in a Windows operating system

Word Processing

Intermediate proficiency in Microsoft Word

Spreadsheets

Intermediate proficiency in Microsoft Excel

Database Management

Basic proficiency in Microsoft Access

Graphics / Presentations

Basic proficiency in Microsoft PowerPoint and Publisher

Office Skills

Internet fundamentals, basic proficiency in Microsoft Outlook, and Basic Bookkeeping Level 1

Business Skills

Business Essentials, Business Math, Business Correspondence Levels 1 and 2, Business Verbal Communication, Business Negotiations and Contracts, Business Financial Management, Grammar Essentials for Business Writing, Customer Service, Management Fundamentals, Business Supervisory Skills, Business Presentations, Human Resources Management, Event Marketing, Marketing and Sales, Marketing Administration, Project Level 1, Project Management Fundamentals Level 1, and Conference and Event Management

Job Readiness / Employability Skills

Job Search and Résumé Writing, and Employment Success Strategies

Salary

Qestions & Answers

What educational background or qualifications are typically required to become a Conference and Meeting Planner?

A bachelor’s degree in hospitality management, event planning, business, or a related field is often required for Conference and Meeting Planner positions. Additionally, relevant certifications, such as Certified Meeting Professional (CMP), can enhance one’s credentials.

What are the primary responsibilities of a Conference and Meeting Planner?

Conference and Meeting Planners are responsible for coordinating and organizing events, conferences, and meetings. This includes tasks such as selecting venues, negotiating contracts, managing budgets, coordinating logistics, arranging accommodations, and ensuring all aspects of the event run smoothly.

How important is attention to detail in the role of a Conference and Meeting Planner?

Attention to detail is crucial for Conference and Meeting Planners as they are responsible for coordinating numerous aspects of an event, from scheduling and logistics to catering and audio-visual requirements. A keen eye for detail helps ensure that every element of the event meets the client’s expectations.

What skills are essential for success as a Conference and Meeting Planner?

Essential skills include strong organizational and time-management skills, excellent communication and negotiation abilities, problem-solving skills, and the ability to work well under pressure. Creativity and a customer-service mindset are also valuable in creating memorable events.

How does technology play a role in the work of a Conference and Meeting Planner?

Technology is integral to the work of Conference and Meeting Planners. They use event management software, online registration systems, and communication tools to streamline the planning process. Additionally, familiarity with audio-visual equipment and virtual event platforms is becoming increasingly important.