CONFERENCE AND EVENT PLANNER
Admission
Benefits of this program
Employment Opportunities
Program Info:
Admission Requirements
Grade 12 or equivalent or Mature Student Status. Courses are open to any applicant who possesses a good command of the English language and is able to follow instructions. An admissions interview will be administered to determine if the applicant has the required interest, motivation, and entry-level skills to take this program. Full-time students must attend the required hours per week as per the course schedule and may do so at times convenient to them.
Program Highlights
Meetings, events, and conventions are one of the fastest growing segments of the economy and embrace multiple aspects of all industries. The Conference and Event Planner Diploma is designed to prepare students for careers in the fast-paced and exciting world of conference and event management. This program appeals to individuals who are charismatic, outgoing, energetic, and entrepreneurial, as the Conference and Event Planner plays a dynamic role within any organization. Its objective is to expose students to a broad range of knowledge and processes, administration skills, and practical tools that will assist them in addressing situations that arise within a conference and event planning-related career. The program provides the skills to progress into higher-level positions, given the proper combination of skills, experience, personal attributes, and additional training. This program provides students with:
- The knowledge and skills necessary to lead and/or assist in the development and/or implementation of conferences and events for a variety of business sectors.
- An introduction to the most relevant aspects of planning and coordinating event logistics.
- Professional skills in high demand by employers. These skills include: negotiating, decision making, teamwork, communication, customer service, leadership, research and problem solving.
- A solid knowledge of event planning and marketing practices and principles.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Applications.
* Not all programs are offered at each location.
AVAILABLE AT…Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program are employed by tourism, trade and professional associations, convention and conference centres, government agencies, and conference and event planning companies. Careers that correspond with the skills learned 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 completion of the program the participant must demonstrate the following core competencies:
- Operating Systems
Basic level of proficiency in a Windows operating system - Word Processing
Intermediate level of proficiency in Microsoft Word - Spreadsheets
Intermediate level of proficiency in Microsoft Excel - Database Management
Basic level of proficiency in Microsoft Access - Graphic/Presentation
Basic level of proficiency in Microsoft PowerPoint and Publisher - Office Skills
Internet Fundamentals, Basic level of proficiency in Microsoft Outlook, and Basic Bookkeeping Level 1 - Business Skills
Business Essentials, Business Math, Business Correspondence Level 1 and Level 2, Business Verbal Communication, Business Negotiations & Contracts, Business Financial Management, Grammar Essentials for Business Writing, Customer Service, Management Fundamentals, Business Supervisory Skills, Business Presentations, Human Resources Management, Event Marketing, Marketing & Sales, Marketing Administration, Project Level 1, and Project Management Fundamentals Level 1, Conference and Event Management - Job Readiness/Employability Skills
Job Search and Résumé Writing and Employment Success Strategies
Details
- Anticipated salary: C$28,529 – C$51,357 (Information from PayScale Canada)
- Program Duration: 102 Weeks
Qestions & Answers
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.