It’s Been Nearly 20 Years — Convening Leaders Returns to Philadelphia
It’s been nearly two decades since PCMA’s Convening Leaders last came to Philadelphia. In January 2026, the conference finally returns — and for me, that means more than just another date on the calendar. It feels like a full-circle moment.
As someone who works every day with meeting planners, event professionals, and producers, I know how much Convening Leaders shapes the conversations that define our industry. It’s the gathering where ideas turn into strategies, and strategies turn into shows that inspire audiences around the world.
From 2006 to 2026: A Changed Industry
When Convening Leaders was here in 2006, the world of live events looked very different. LED video walls weren’t part of every general session. Scenic design was mostly about drape and risers. Hybrid events weren’t even on the radar yet.
Fast-forward twenty years, and the landscape of event production and audio-visual design has completely transformed. Today, planners are expected to deliver immersive experiences with flawless lighting, dynamic visuals, powerful sound, and seamless streaming capabilities. What was once “nice to have” has become the baseline.
That’s why I see Convening Leaders 2026 as more than just a reunion. It’s an opportunity for Certified Meeting Professionals (CMPs) and Certified Exhibition Managers (CEMs) to explore what’s next — to learn how AV technology, creative staging, and technical partnership can elevate every program.
From LinkedIn Connections to Real Conversations
Over the past few years, I’ve connected with so many incredible CMPs and CEMs on LinkedIn. I’ve celebrated their career wins, learned from their posts, and been inspired by the way they’re pushing our industry forward.
In January 2026, I’ll get the chance to meet many of them face-to-face — right here in Philadelphia. That’s what excites me most. Convening Leaders isn’t just about the sessions and the keynotes. It’s about those hallway conversations, the late-night brainstorms, and the connections that turn into partnerships long after the conference ends.
Philadelphia Is Ready to Shine
The Philadelphia that hosted Convening Leaders in 2006 isn’t the same city you’ll experience in 2026. Our Pennsylvania Convention Center has expanded, the surrounding neighborhoods have flourished, and new hotels and restaurants have made this one of the most walkable, connected convention cities in the country.
As a local partner in audio-visual production, I’m especially proud to welcome the industry back. Philadelphia is a city that knows how to tell a story — and in 2026, we’ll be ready to help every planner, producer, and speaker make their message unforgettable.
Looking Ahead
For me, Convening Leaders 2026 is about two things: reflection and possibility. Reflection on how far we’ve come since 2006, and possibility for what we can build together in the next chapter.
To every event planner, producer, and AV professional reading this: I can’t wait to see you in January. Let’s share ideas, learn from each other, and make this a milestone year — not just for PCMA, but for the entire meetings and events industry.
Written by: Tara Dodsworth | Director of Business Development | Showorks Audio-Visual
