Certifications Corner with B. Murphy, CEM
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| B. Murphy, CEM |
Each month, the Certifications & Career Development Committee will explore a different meeting-industry certification, and we will talk to an MPI Potomac member who holds it.
The Certified in Exhibition Management® (CEM) offers 13 courses, and nine are required to complete the program. After each course is an exam to demonstrate your in-depth understanding of the overall operations of the events and exhibition industry. The program’s focus is education first so students can apply the knowledge in their careers
Qualification: Three years of full-time experience in exhibitions industry
Renewal Cycle: Every three years
Current CEMs: More than 3,300 active CEMs worldwide
B. Murphy, CEM since 2012
Senior National Sales Manager, Fern Exposition Services
1. Why did you decide to get your CEM?
I decided that if I wanted to be taken seriously in this Industry, I should pursue some training and/or certification that was useful to what I do in my role with Fern. I was very fortunate that Fern agreed. You are NEVER too old to learn new things!
2. What did you do to prepare for the exam?
My approach to the CEM journey was such that I took my exams as soon as possible after taking a class. I wanted to do so while the information was still “fresh” in my mind.
3. How have you leveraged your CEM to help you in your career? Could you share one new skill, formula or concept you learned while preparing for the exam that has been useful in the meetings industry?
Because of the classes and instruction I received in the CEM program, I developed a “new” appreciation for what meeting planners and show managers have to deal with on a daily basis. I remember being fascinated just to learn about food & beverage! I also understand more deeply the meaning of having a “trusting” relationship between planners and suppliers. On a personal note: Obtaining my CEM allowed me an opportunity to go further in my career and become a member of the CEM faculty. As a result, I have taught classes all over the country and even internationally (Taiwan and Thailand). I would NEVER have dreamed of this happening to me. In fact, I used to joke that I needed a passport to go to Philadelphia! I truly believe that obtaining any certification, CEM, CMP, CASE or any others, speaks “volumes” about whether someone is truly vested in this great industry.
