By Ronnie Wendt

The ballroom buzzed with excitement, but not in the way you might expect.

Attendees were spread across several continents, joining virtually from home offices, coffee shops and conference centers. AI-powered networking tools suggested connections based on shared interests, while interactive polls and breakout sessions kept engagement high. Meanwhile, the on-site team ensured captioning, translation and accessible seating made the event inclusive for everyone.

This is not a scene from the future. It is the new reality of event planning. From hybrid conferences and AI-driven analytics to sustainable design and socially responsible programming, today’s planners are expected to juggle an ever-expanding toolkit of skills.

And as the event landscape evolves, the benchmark for professional expertise is evolving as well.

Enter the Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) credential, held by over 13,000 planners across 55 countries. For 62 decades, it has validated expertise in strategic planning, operations, stakeholder engagement and risk management. But in August 2025, the Events Industry Council (EIC) launched an updated CMP exam, reflecting 2025 CMP International Standards. The goal of this exam is to ensure CMP-certified professionals are prepared to meet the demands of a rapidly changing industry.

“There are emerging trends in continuing education and professional development as it relates to the global events industry that are reshaping the skill sets event planners need to stay competitive and future ready,” says Carolyn Patterson-Kemper, director of the CMP Certification Program. “A few emerging trends on the horizon include skills-based micro training and micro- credentials in specific areas, including sustainability; diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI); and technology.”

It is these emerging trends that the new CMP International Standards and exam address. “This update to the CMP International Standards reflects how far our industry has come and where we are headed,” according to Heather Seasholtz, CMP fellow and chair of the CMP Governance Commission.

“Over 1,000 professionals from diverse markets and disciplines helped shape this framework to ensure it is relevant, practical and globally formed for the future of events.”

TECHNOLOGY INTEGRATION

Let’s say a major tech company hosts an in-person event that is limited to 200 attendees due to space constraints, but wants to reach more people. A virtual platform would allow thousands to participate worldwide. Planners could use AI to recommend breakout sessions based on attendee profiles, track engagement in real time and generate post-event reports that quantify the return on investment in ways traditional metrics cannot.

But first planners must be equipped to think strategically about accessibility, engagement and data security in a digital environment.

Expanding exam content to include technology integration can equip planners to design more effective virtual and hybrid events using AI-driven tools and advanced data analytics, while prioritizing inclusivity, engagement and data security. By preparing planners to leverage these innovations thoughtfully, they can harness new platforms and formats more effectively to enhance the event experience.

Patterson-Kemper believes this approach will help planners navigate new tools, technology and formats with strategic foresight and practical agility. “Planners will be equipped to adapt confidently to virtual and hybrid events, leverage AI and interpret data analytics meaningfully,” she explains.

It will drive success by focusing on key strategies, including:

  • Accessibility: Features like captioning, language translation and assistive technology ensure every attendee can participate fully.
  •  Engagement: Interactive elements such as live polls, gamified activities and AI-driven networking foster meaningful connections.
  • Data Responsibility: Planners are taught to manage sensitive information securely, especially when they are using AI platforms.
  • Impactful Metrics: Planners learn to focus on understanding which data points truly inform decision-making to show measurable success and refine future events.

SUSTAINABILITY & SOCIAL IMPACT

The updated CMP exam also puts greater emphasis on sustainability and social responsibility, a reflection of the broader expectations facing the industry. From corporate retreats to nonprofit galas, planners are increasingly called upon to manage carbon footprints, reduce waste and design experiences that prioritize attendee well-being.

The newly added domain in the CMP framework reinforces the event sector’s growing responsibility to advance environmental and societal outcomes. It encompasses carbon footprint management, materials and waste reduction, and inclusive event design.

CMP-certified event professionals will be able to design experiences that benefit business goals, the environment and society by considering sustainability and social impact from the beginning of the planning process.

They will be equipped to do things like collaborate with local suppliers to eliminate single-use plastics, implement zero-waste catering programs, offset travel emissions through verified carbon credit initiatives and more.

RETURNS ON INVESTMENT & RISK ASSESSMENTS

The updated CMP exam additionally tackles one of the industry’s most pressing challenges: measuring return on investment. Traditional metrics like attendance numbers or survey scores capture only part of the story. Today’s planners are expected to show tangible outcomes that directly tie back to business goals.

“Planners are recognizing the importance of return on investment measurement and data analytics to track meaningful metrics and tell the financial story of the event process,” Patterson- Kemper explains.

CMP-certified planners will know how to use data analytics to track session participation, engagement with sponsors and speakers, and social media interactions, then analyze the information to present a compelling narrative to stakeholders.

The new exam emphasizes proactive risk assessment and resilient event design, preparing planners to anticipate challenges and respond with flexibility. Whether it’s weather disruptions at an outdoor festival or sudden platform outages during a global summit, certified meeting and event planners will be trained to think ahead and make decisive, informed decisions under pressure to mimic the real world.

HOW TO PREPARE FOR THE UPDATED CMP EXAM

Earning or renewing a CMP certification today requires an understanding of both the latest industry trends and emerging best practices. To help planners navigate the exam’s expanded content and set themselves up for success, Patterson- Kemper advises planners to:

  • Study the CMP-International Standards domains thoroughly. “Use the latest CMP-International Standards and study materials as your roadmap,” she suggests.
  • Invest in updated study materials available via the EIC website.
  • Join a CMP study group so you can exchange insights with others.
  • Purchase practice exams to test comprehension and build confidence.
  • Schedule manageable study periods during your peak concentration times.

The updated CMP exam maintains its multiple-choice format, but features more scenario-based questions that assess applied knowledge and real- world decision-making. Interim study materials are available to support candidates until new study resources, including a new edition of the EIC Manual, become available in early 2026.

A CREDENTIAL THAT EVOLVES

Since 1985, the CMP certification has represented excellence, credibility and commitment to professional growth in the meeting and event industry. The 2025 update ensures the credential continues to align with the competencies, ethics and leadership qualities needed in today’s fast-paced world.

“The CMP is more than a certification; it represents a commitment to doing the work well and doing it right,” Seasholtz stresses. “This update ensures our credential keeps pace with the industry and continues to reflect the skills and leadership we need to move forward.”

As the meeting and event industry continues to embrace innovative technologies, sustainability practices and global collaboration, one thing is clear: Professional development isn’t optional. It’s integral to success.

“The best planners aren’t just keeping up with change; they’re leading it,” Patterson-Kemper concludes.

To learn more about the CMP program or to schedule your exam, visit eventscouncil.org/CMP.