IMEX America 2025: Top Lessons From an Educator and an Event Pro

IMEX America 2025 brought together thousands of hospitality professionals, specifically in the meetings, events, and incentive travel aspect of the industry to support the growth of the the global meetings and events ecosystem. This hosted buyer model brought together upwards of 5,700 global decision makers with 3,500 global suppliers. IMEX America draws the full spectrum of the meetings and events industry. Exhibitors range from global hotel groups and destination bureaus to airlines, cruise lines, and technology providers. Attendees include corporate and association planners, agency leaders, and incentive travel buyers. The event is free to attend, with an optional hosted-buyer program offering complimentary travel, accommodations, and VIP access for qualified meeting professionals

Florida International University’s Chaplin School of Hospitality & Tourism Management sent two professors; first-time attendee Dr. Suzanne Bagnera and seasoned event professional Sharifa Wilkinson, for the experience offered very different—but complementary—lessons.

From the massive show floor to the tech innovations redefining engagement, here are their top takeaways.

1. Size and Scale Demand Strategy

IMEX is enormous—more than 200 speakers, countless exhibitors, and three days that barely scratch the surface. As a first-time attendee, Suzanne learned that you need a plan and the IMEX app to make it through effectively. Setting appointments ahead of time is key; casual networking is rare unless planned.

2. Design That Speaks Volumes

The visual impact of IMEX is unmatched. Suzanne noted that booth design has evolved into an art form—creative structures, immersive tech, and more furniture than most trade shows. Comfort and conversation areas seem to have replaced traditional rigid displays.

3. AI and Technology Lead the Conversation

AI-powered event tools, real-time captioning, and engagement analytics were everywhere. Suzanne was impressed by technologies that enhance accessibility and connection—especially systems that sync live content from sessions to apps or screens for wider access.

4. University Village: A Learning Hub

A highlight was University Village, powered by San Diego State University’s. Collectively, SDSU alongside FIU and SUNY Buffalo State University, represented the academic institutions with master’s degree and executive level education offerings. The educators provided short engaging sessions:

Mega Events: Best Practices You Can Apply Anywhere, Sharifa Wilkinson
Adapting Your Web Content to AI Search (From SEO to AEO), Ira Vouk
Applied Creative Problem Solving, Molly Holinger
The Masters Advantage: Elevate Your Career and Earning Potential, Carl Winston
The Written Word and Writing a Book, Amani Roberts
Hospitality Career Accelerator, Suzanne Bagnera

This space blended academia and industry with live sessions throughout the event. Professional audio and headsets kept sessions clear and focused, even amid floor activity—a small but powerful detail that elevated learning quality.

5. Tech Tools with Room to Improve

The IMEX app was essential for scheduling and networking, but Suzanne found a gap: lack of real-time alerts for sessions and meetings. With overlapping commitments, reminders could help attendees stay on track. Understanding the floor layout also proved crucial; missing a short 20-minute session can happen easily.

6. Carve Out Time to Connect

With so much happening at IMEX over four days, the time truly flies by in the blink of an eye. Sharifa emphasized the importance of intentionally carving out time to connect with contacts and friends across the industry. Whether it’s attending their speaker sessions, stopping by their booth, or grabbing a quick coffee or lunch, these moments matter — especially since IMEX may be the only time each year to connect with them in person. Try to book appointments ahead.

7. Continue to Innovate

IMEX continues to evolve and innovate, all while maintaining the key elements attendees know and love. For example, on Smart Monday, Sharifa walked past a puppy zone, where industry professionals could take a wellness break and spend time with furry friends. IMEX consistently prioritizes attendee wellbeing, finding new and creative ways each year to meet (and exceed) participant expectations.

8. The Events Community is Always Willing to Share

Sharifa quickly organized a half-day program that brought students face-to-face with top event professionals eager to mentor the next generation. Industry leaders including Rich Curran (Expo Convention Contractors), Diedra Everdij (Cream of the Crop Events), Nicholas Zazzera (DECO Productions), and Veronica Villar (Meeting Resources Inc.) shared their time and insight on the show floor. They introduced students to key contacts, explained how deals get done at major trade shows, and offered advice on navigating the industry. Their actions reflect a defining value in events—professionals lifting others through collaboration, mentorship, and the open sharing of expertise that keeps the community strong.

9. Trends Shaping the Future

Uncertainty emerged as a recurring theme across several sessions. With the rapid rise of AI and other unpredictable macro forces, uncertainty has become the only true constant. Sharifa noted that despite this, there remains strong industry optimism — according to the AMEX GBT Global Meetings and Events Forecast, 85% of meeting professionals reported feeling positive about the future of the sector.

10. Practical Tips for Next Time

Bring walking shoes and a sweater. Hydrate constantly. Plan sessions around your meetings. Review the speaker list before arrival. With so much content and so little time, preparation ensures you’ll leave with insights and meaningful connections.

IMEX is more than a trade show, it’s a live snapshot of where global hospitality is heading. From tech to design to education, it reinforces that the industry’s future is not only connected but collaborative. We look forward to seeing you on the tradeshow floor in 2026!