2025 CMAA World Conference: Embrace Growth, Innovation, and Net-Giving in Tampa, FL
Hey everyone! The excitement is building for the 2025 CMAA World Conference and Business Expo, taking place from February 5-9 at the Tampa Convention Center. This event is about more than just attending sessions—it’s a chance to grow personally and professionally in the club management field. Set right along the scenic Riverwalk in downtown Tampa, this conference is an opportunity you won’t want to miss!
Having been a CMAA member for over 30 years, serving as National President in 2012, and being honored as a CMAA Fellow, I’m thrilled to share some insights that can help enhance your experience during this event.
Preparation: The Key to Success
Before you arrive, take time to prepare. Use the scheduling tools available to map out an educational track that speaks to your interests and your club’s needs. By planning your agenda thoughtfully, you can tap into the diverse learning opportunities.
Make sure to check out the Idea Fair! It’s always a fantastic experience to connect with your peers and explore their innovative concepts and success stories. Take photos and jot down ideas that resonate with you—these insights can spark transformative changes at your own club.
Focus: Make the Most of Your Learning
When you’re in the sessions, be an active participant! Remember what Dick Kopplin said, “The palest ink is better than the best memory.” So, be sure to take detailed notes—these will be helpful for you and for sharing with your team later on. With over 65 sessions covering all 11 competencies of club management, you’ll find valuable insights from industry experts that can help you tackle the challenges we all face.
Don’t miss the keynote speakers, either! They will bring fresh perspectives and inspiration to guide you through our industry’s evolving landscape.
The Business Expo: A Voyage into Innovation
Imagine entering a vibrant marketplace brimming with opportunities—this is what the Business Expo feels like. As you navigate through the aisles, allow your curiosity to guide you. Engage with vendors/partners who are passionate about their products and services; they are eager to share their expertise and insights.
Even if you aren’t prepared to purchase now, the rich knowledge and fresh ideas you gather can significantly benefit your club by enhancing its offerings to members. Remember that each vendor is here to sell, inform, and inspire, making this event a valuable experience for all attendees.
Unique Opportunities: Coaching and First-Timer Sessions
If you’re attending for the first time, don’t miss the First-Timers session; it’s a great introduction to the conference and a fantastic way to meet new people! Also, take advantage of coaching sessions Shelly MacDougall and Kevin MacDonald led. They understand our unique challenges in the club industry and can give tailored advice.
Net-Giving: Cultivating Authentic Connections
At the CMAA World Conference, net-giving is all about fostering genuine relationships rather than simply distributing business cards. Our friend Tommy Spaulding emphasized this approach, which encourages us to focus on meaningful interactions that create value for others.
Participating in events such as the Chapter Kick-Off or casual meet-ups offers the perfect environment to engage with others in a relaxed setting. These interactions allow us to share ideas, explore mutual interests, and build rapport. Through these authentic connections, we can lay the foundation for future collaborations and lasting friendships, enriching our personal and professional lives.
Sharing Knowledge: Amplify What You’ve Learned
Upon returning, take the opportunity to thoroughly share the insights you’ve gained with your team and board members. Begin by drafting comprehensive reports that delve into the key takeaways from your experience. Highlight innovative ideas and emerging trends that you discovered, emphasizing how these can be applicable and beneficial to your club’s growth and development.
Consider organizing a presentation or a workshop to convey this information effectively. Break down the content into manageable sections, allowing for discussions and questions that can foster collaborative thinking. Additionally, you might include relevant data, case studies, or examples to illustrate your points more vividly.
By doing this, you not only demonstrate that your participation was about gathering knowledge but also your commitment to the organization’s continuous improvement. Encourage feedback and suggestions from your team to create an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued and invested in implementing new strategies. This proactive approach can lead to exciting developments for your club and set a foundation for a shared learning and growth culture.
Tampa Awaits: Embrace the 2025 Experience
As you prepare for the conference, remember to:
– Discover treasures and wisdom that can enhance your club.
– Connect with fellow members who share your passion.
– Consider adding new faces to your club crew.
– Build a solid path to your career goals with confidence.
– Take a moment to appreciate the beauty around you.
The 2025 CMAA World Conference and Business Expo is about immersing yourself in learning, innovation, and connection. Approach the event with intention and a spirit of giving back. After all, you get out of the conference what you put into it. By investing in your growth and embracing the idea of net giving, you’ll return to your club with transformative ideas and renewed energy.
I can’t wait to see you in Tampa! Feel free to reach out if you have any questions or need tips on making the most of this incredible event. You can see me around the conference and at Booth 1507 in the Expo if you have time or reach me by phone directly – 608-335-0342 or by email: [email protected]
Let’s make this conference unforgettable!
Lawrence J. Skip Avery CCM, CCE
CMAA Fellow
Club Development Director
Stone Group Architects
To learn more about Stone Group Architects, feel free to contact me at [email protected] // 608.335.0342 or visit our website.