NEC

Speakers and Sessions

Offsite Learning Labs

Beyond Four Walls: Producing Events in Public Spaces

Arts Landing
A venue-led tour using Arts Landing as a live case study in programming and operating a public outdoor space, including how planning changes when a civic space must continue to serve the public.

  • Logistics (Primary); Facilities & Services

Mission Meets Meetings: Creating Events with Cultural & Community Impact

August Wilson African American Cultural Center
A venue-led tour focused on how a mission-driven cultural institution balances exhibitions, performances, community engagement and event operations while creating meaningful experiences.

  • Education & Programming (Primary); Ethics

Building Better Events: Sustainability in Action

David L. Lawrence Convention Center – Sustainability Tour
A behind-the-scenes look at how the David L. Lawrence Convention Center's sustainable design and operating practices translate into meetings and events. Venue staff can discuss how planners and facilities work together to reduce environmental impact while supporting operational and attendee needs.

  • Facilities & Services (Primary); Logistics

Safe by Design: Security & Emergency Preparedness for Major Events

David L. Lawrence Convention Center – Security Tour
A venue-led look at how a major convention facility prepares for and manages event safety and security. The session can examine how security planning changes based on event type, size, risk profile and attendees, including considerations for government meetings and high-profile events.

  • Logistics (Primary); Facilities & Services 

Onsite Learning Labs

Creating a Downtown Destination: Community Events as Placemaking

Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership
A speaker-led session exploring how events such as Picklesburgh, Oktoberfest and Light Up Night activate Downtown, create a sense of place and bring residents and visitors together.

  • Education & Programming (Primary); Logistics

 

Disclaimer: While we do not anticipate any changes to the outlined program, the agenda may be subject to some minor changes due to circumstances beyond our control. We reserve the right to make such adjustments as needed in response to unforeseen events.