Making Connections in Tough Times: Meeting Pro's Intl-Chicago Area Adds Job Tools, Networking

Oct. 1, 2009 - PRLog -- Meeting Professionals International, Chicago Area Chapter (MPI-CAC;www.mpicac.org), a professional association serving 1,300+ members, unveiled new online resources designed to support its mission of enhancing its members' success.  As the largest chapter within the 24,000+ member global Meeting Professionals International (MPI), the Chicago Area Chapter has connected its community of meeting and event professionals to comprehensive support, industry knowledge and business opportunities since its inception in 1976.  Meetings, events and performance incentive travel in the United States are responsible for almost 15% of all domestic travel, generating 1 million jobs and $27 billion in wages (US Travel Association).  Recognizing the need to address continued economic challenges facing this sector, MPI-CAC has increased its support to members through its newly designed website and enhanced professional development opportunities.

The redesigned website (www.mpicac.org) offers user-friendly navigation, expanded search features and new communications tools, including:
•access to professional development and networking events
•a new easy-to-use Supplier Directory with advanced search options that expedite the process of finding members, organizations and services
•an online career center offering expanded tools for students considering careers in the meetings and events industry, as well as for job seekers in the industry
•links to additional networking with MPI-CAC peer groups available through its blog, message board, Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn
•real time industry news feeds
•a quarterly print newsletter and a bi-monthly electronic newsletter
•additional news and member-submitted articles on critical issues facing the meeting and event business
•continued access to the international MPI website's suite of online and offline career-centric tools

Chrissy Ward, current president of MPI-CAC, is thrilled with the enhanced efforts to support members.  "As the largest Chapter within the global organization of MPI, MPI-CAC is in a great position to learn from our membership, and to turn their ideas into tools and resources.  The website redesign and many of the networking and educational events, such as the Woman's Leadership Conference, are direct results of the ideas, passion and dedication of our members."  She continued, "Today's competitive environment is more reason than ever for professionals to join industry associations.  Our chapter is proud to provide education, tools, connections and resources that help our members further their career paths and achieve professional goals."  [Photo – MPI-CAC president Chrissy Ward]

MPI-CAC's growing roster of professional development and networking forums offer meeting and event professionals a variety of options to assist in achieving their goals.  In fact, the MPI-CAC educational offerings, study groups, weekend retreats and online tools are designed in support of the industry's professional certification programs:  MPI's own Certified Meeting Manager (CMM) and the Convention Industry Council's Certified Meeting Professional (CMP). Some of the regularly scheduled opportunities include:

•Educational Programs -- Two-hour programs that highlight topics critical to the meeting and event industry, such as Project Management, Green Meetings and a History of Hospitality in Chicago.
•Knowledge Shares - sessions held simultaneously in several locales that enable attendees to share best practices and advice on hot industry topics.
•Networking Events - forums that facilitate connecting with colleagues and meeting new business contacts
•Women's Leadership Conference -- a one day educational conference focusing on career development with an emphasis on building leadership skills
•Annual Holiday Celebration - an evening of seasonal networking, including a raffle and silent auction
•Educational Conference and Awards Gala -- As the Chapter's premier educational event and awards ceremony, the one-day conference provides education and networking to planners and suppliers of all experience levels
•Golf Classic - a day of social golf, followed by an evening networking reception
•CMP Study Groups -- an interactive review weekend prior to the twice-yearly Certified Meeting Professional examination
•Student Events -  special opportunities tailored toward its growing list of 100 student members including The Annual Mocktail Reception

To learn more about the benefits of MPI-CAC membership, including access to the event calendar and career center, visit www.mpicac.org or call 888-721-8908.

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About Meeting Professionals International - and MPI-Chicago Area Chapter
Meeting Professionals International (MPI) is the meeting and event industry's largest and most vibrant global community. It serves its members by providing human connections to knowledge and ideas, relationships, and marketplaces. MPI global membership is comprised of more than 24,000 members belonging to 70 chapters and clubs worldwide. The 1,300+ member MPI-Chicago Area Chapter, established in 1976, empowers its members to increase their strategic value with education, professional development and business growth opportunities. For more information, visit www.mpicac.org or call 888-721-8908.