Lawson Hockman Selected as 2015 IAEE Legend of the Industry; Krakoff Leadership Institute Wraps Up in Palm Beach

August 18, 2015

The International Association of Exhibitions and Events completed its Krakoff Leadership Institute and Krakoff Advanced Leadership Institute, held Aug. 15-18, at the Breakers Resort in Palm Beach, Fla.

Each two-day program provided a highly interactive curriculum that develops participants' leadership skills through group participation. 

In addition, IAEE selected a "Legend of the Industry" whose contributions, innovation and leadership have been truly unique and remarkable.

An informal setting then allowed each participant face-to-face interaction with this industry leader.

This year's "Legend" is Lawson Hockman, CEM, vice president industry relations, IMN Solutions.

After 45 years in the exhibitions and events industry, Hockman's experience spans the non- and for-profit arenas in all areas of management and development with a strong emphasis on association operations and financial management, convention/trade show management, membership development, marketing, sales and publications management.

"Lawson is a greatly accomplished member of the industry and indelible source of knowledge," said 2015 IAEE Chairperson Megan Tanel, CEM. "The wisdom he imparted regarding creating a network with your peers and building relationships with your suppliers will serve as a valuable asset to this year's institute graduates as they continue to hone their leadership skills."  

In his role at IMN Solutions, Hockman consults with clients on association management, trade show and meeting management, sales and marketing, vendor selection and vendor contract negotiation, and advance and on-site management.

Prior to joining IMN Solutions in 2000, he was COO for the Anxiety Disorders Association of America (ADAA), where he managed the day-to-day operations.

Prior to ADAA, Hockman was COO for the Environmental Industry Associations (EIA), where he was responsible for overall operations including financial management and oversight, personnel administration, meetings, exhibitions, educational programs, membership, marketing and publications.

Prior to joining EIA in 1989, he was with the National Electrical Association (NECA) for more than 19 years, holding positions as membership director, convention/exposition director and assistant director for Labor Relations.

Hockman is an Air Force veteran and a graduate of Shepherd University.

Graduates of the 2015 Krakoff Leadership Institute will be recognized at Expo! Expo! IAEE's Annual Meeting & Exhibition to be held Dec. 1-3 in Baltimore, Md. 

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