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After another year of disruption, members of PCMA’s 20 in Their Twenties class of 2022 are proof positive that adaptability is a requisite skill for business events industry professionals. Maeva Truchi, event specialist at Illumina, Inc. in San Diego, California, shares what she has learned about the industry and herself during the pandemic.
What’s the best advice you’ve gotten from someone in the industry?
The best advice I have received is to not worry about curveballs that get thrown at you during events. You can worry about putting out fires internally with your team. As long as your attendees think everything is fine, let the fire burn.
What has this time of disruption taught you about the industry — and yourself?
I think this time of disruption has given me such a greater appreciation for the industry. When the pandemic first happened, I thought about changing my career. However, looking into other professions made me realize how much I love and adore being part of the events industry. I think it also has given people the opportunity to appreciate the time they spend with others in person because it is so much more meaningful and valuable than virtual experiences.
How do you see the industry changing as a result of the pandemic?
I think our industry will be resilient moving forward. Everyone had to adapt so quickly and pivot to a “pandemic lifestyle” that I think we are prepped and ready for any future curveballs that may be thrown our way. I think we will also start to see a lot more hybrid events, which allows event planners to invite larger audiences to events while also respecting the safety of those who may not want to travel or meet in person.
Where do you see yourself in five years?
I would still like to be doing internal events while managing a team of planners. I’d love the opportunity to pass down all my experiences and knowledge learned from past leaders onto an eager team of young planners.
Members of PCMA’s 20 in Their Twenties class of 2022, supported by PCMA Foundation and Experience Columbus, were recognized at PCMA Convening Leaders 2022, Jan. 9-12 in Las Vegas.