Women to Watch

Congratulations to the 2026 Woman to Watch

• Monique Abed, Operations Director, Ai4

• Lisha Baer, Associate Director of Operations, NAMM (National Association of Music Merchants)

• Whitney Bell, Vice President, Marketing, NTP Events

• Amber Curtis, Sales Manager, RXUS/ReedPop

• Linette Dao, Senior Marketing Director, Industrial Group, Emerald

• Nataly Laro, Group Media Marketing Director, Clarion Events North America

• Alexandra Lombardo, Events Operations Manager, Event Performance Group, Questex

• Natasha Miles, Event Manager, Informa Markets

• Rachel Rodean, Director of Education & Events, ESCA (Exhibition Services and Contractors Association)

• Brianne Somers, Senior Director, Exhibitions Services and The Utility Expo Show Director, Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM)

The Woman to Watch Program

Trade Show Executive’s Women to Watch program identified and encouraged the next generation of leaders in the trade show industry. The recipients of the Women to Watch are invited to attend and share the spotlight at the TSE Gold 100 Awards & Summit, taking place on September 22-24th at the Terranea Resort in Palos Verdes, CA, and will be featured in the November 2026 Issue of Trade Show Executive Magazine.

 The 2026 Women to Watch Program

Complimentary Registration
Enjoy complimentary access to the Gold 100 Awards & Summit, taking place on September 21-24th at the luxurious Terranea Resort. (Both the nominator and Women to Watch winner will receive complimentary registrations. )

Arrive Early – Sunday, September 20th or Monday, September 21st
Kick off your experience by arriving a day early to prepare for the exciting Women to Watch Photoshoot on Monday, September 21st.
Start the day with:

• Professional makeup and glam session
• Wellness snacks and refreshments
• Individual photoshoots on-site at Terranea Resort, by Oscar & Associates
• A celebratory group photo and toast to conclude the shoot

Attend all the Gold 100 Events
Check out the agenda and participate in this year’s exciting events

Wednesday September 23rd
Before the Gala Reception, attend a special gathering toast with fellow 2026 and past Women to Watch alumni.

Gala Awards Dinner
Celebrate in style as the 2026 Women to Watch are honored on stage and presented with the prestigious crystal trophy.

Honorees are selected by a panel of Trade Show Executive editors based on various criteria, including recent professional achievements within the past year, demonstrable leadership qualities (such as creativity, financial and budgetary acumen, integrity, problem-solving skills, fostering excellence in team members, and mentorship), and/or a proven track record of excellence in show management.

Nominees considered should be early in their careers, shining a spotlight on their potential and what is to come as they continue to grow into leadership roles within the trade show industry. Nominations for standout mid-level managers, or those with 2-10 years of industry experiences, are encouraged. Please submit the nomination form to Trade Show Executive below.