Pictured: Brittani Stickler (right) and NRPA Marketing and Engagement Manager Cara Myers at the 2025 Event Management School at Oglebay Resort in Wheeling, West Virginia.

Attending Event Management School, a partnership between NRPA and the International Festivals and Events Association (IFEA), was an absolute game-changer for me. I would highly recommend it to anyone in the field of special events and marketing.

The program was a perfect fit for expanding my skill set and igniting my passion for creating memorable experiences for my community. From the moment I arrived, I knew I was in the right place — surrounded by like-minded professionals eager to learn and grow. The combination of hands-on experience, expert instruction and invaluable networking made this two-year program one of the most rewarding and transformative professional development experiences I’ve had.

One of my highlights was the Year 2 group project where you are divided into a group, assigned a city and tasked with creating an event from the ground up. This project mimics real-world scenarios, offering a hands-on experience that directly applies to the challenges we face in our own roles. It’s a unique opportunity to collaborate with a diverse group of individuals, each bringing different perspectives and expertise to the table, as we work together to design a memorable event that addresses the needs and culture of the assigned city.

The group project pushes you to think creatively and strategically, applying everything you learn throughout the program to develop a comprehensive event plan utilizing a work breakdown structure. From budgeting and marketing to logistics and sponsorships, you dive into all the critical components that make an event successful. The feedback and insights you receive from instructors and peers along the way sharpen your problem-solving skills and allow you to refine your approach to event management. By the time the project concludes, you not only have a fully fleshed-out event proposal, but also a deepened understanding of the intricate details that go into pulling off large-scale, successful events.

The two-year duration of Event Management School ensures that the learning process is thorough and progressive. Each year builds upon the last, with a blend of classroom instruction and practical application. Over the course of the program, you gain a strong foundation in leadership, crisis management and event marketing, all while growing your professional network. The knowledge, skills and connections acquired during the group project and throughout the two years are invaluable, equipping you to take on even the most complex event challenges with confidence and creativity. Connecting with other professionals in the field allows me to exchange ideas, share experiences and learn from a diverse group of people who face similar challenges and successes. The sense of community at Event Management School fosters an environment where attendees can grow both personally and professionally.

Brittani Stickler (she/her) is a special events and marketing programmer for the City of Wyoming (Michigan) Parks and Recreation Department