Program Objective
The Conference and Event Planner Program at Academy of Learning Career College in Brampton is designed to prepare students for thriving careers in the dynamic and rapidly expanding field of event management. The meetings, events, and conventions sector represents one of the fastest-growing segments of the economy, with event planning and execution playing a crucial role across diverse industries.
This program is ideal for individuals who are charismatic, outgoing, energetic, and entrepreneurial, recognizing that a Conference and Event Planner is a dynamic and essential asset to any organization. The core objective is to provide students with a comprehensive foundation of knowledge, processes, administrative skills, and practical tools necessary to effectively navigate the various situations encountered in a conference and event planning career.
Students will gain:
- The knowledge and skills to lead and assist in the development and implementation of a wide range of conferences and events across various business sectors.
- A thorough introduction to the essential aspects of planning and coordinating event logistics.
- Professional skills highly valued by employers, including expertise in negotiating, decision-making, teamwork, communication, customer service, leadership, research, and problem-solving.
- A strong understanding of event planning and marketing practices and principles.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications.
This event planner program also provides the skills necessary for career advancement into higher-level positions, given the appropriate combination of skills, experience, personal attributes, and further training in event management. We offer comprehensive event management classes and event planning courses to ensure our graduates are well-prepared.
Program Notes
Tuition fees cover student manuals and all required course materials. Financial assistance options may be available for eligible students.
To meet the graduation requirements for this program, students must achieve a minimum overall average of 75% to obtain their diploma.
Method of Delivery
Academy of Learning College utilizes the Integrated Learning™ System, with training facilitated by our experienced instructors.
Core Courses
- Operating Systems: Basic proficiency in a Windows operating system, essential for event planning administration.
- Word Processing: Intermediate proficiency in Microsoft Word, necessary for creating contracts, proposals, and event documentation.
- Spreadsheets: Intermediate proficiency in Microsoft Excel, crucial for budgeting, financial tracking, and event logistics management.
- Database Management: Basic proficiency in Microsoft Access, used for managing client information and event details.
- Graphic/Presentation: Basic proficiency in Microsoft PowerPoint and Publisher, valuable for creating event marketing materials and presentations.
- Office Skills: Internet Fundamentals, basic proficiency in Microsoft Outlook for communication and scheduling, and Basic Bookkeeping Level 1 for event finances.
- Business Skills: A strong foundation in business principles, including:
- Business Essentials
- Business Math
- Business Correspondence Level 1 and Level 2
- Business Verbal Communication
- Business Negotiations & Contracts
- Business Financial Management
- Grammar Essentials for Business Writing
- Customer Service
- Management Fundamentals
- Business Supervisory Skills
- Business Presentations
- Human Resources Management
- Event Marketing
- Marketing & Sales
- Marketing Administration
- Project Level 1
- Project Management Fundamentals Level 1
- Conference and Event Management
- Job Readiness and Employability Skills: Job Search, Résumé Writing, and Strategies for Employment Success. This helps graduates get ready for the event planning job market.
Admission Requirements
To be eligible for the Conference and Event Planner Diploma program at Academy of Learning Career College in Brampton, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Possess a Grade 12 diploma or its equivalent, OR qualify for Mature Student Status.
- Demonstrate a good command of the English language, both written and verbal, and the ability to follow instructions.
All applicants will participate in an admissions interview to assess their interest, motivation, and entry-level skills necessary for success in this event planning program.
Students enrolled in the full-time program are required to attend the scheduled hours per week, with scheduling options available for their convenience.
Required Skills and Personal Attributes
Success in the demanding field of conference and event planning requires a specific set of skills and personal attributes. Graduates of the Conference and Event Planner Diploma program from Academy of Learning Career College in Brampton will demonstrate the ability to:
- Learn new skills and acquire knowledge related to event management and the evolving industry.
- Formulate sound decisions and exercise good judgment under pressure, a critical aspect of event execution.
- Build strong working relationships with vendors, clients, and colleagues to achieve event goals.
- Efficiently manage time and stress, essential for handling multiple event planning tasks simultaneously.
- Work collaboratively and effectively as part of a team, crucial for seamless event coordination.
- Recognize the dynamics and politics within organizations, aiding in effective event implementation.
- Utilize strong interpersonal and communication skills to interact effectively with diverse stakeholders.
- Exhibit tact and employ active listening skills to understand and address client needs.
- Communicate clearly and professionally, both verbally and in writing, with individuals from diverse backgrounds.
- Be self-motivated, energetic, confident, and creative in approaching event planning challenges.
Program Prerequisites
Prospective students for the Conference and Event Planner Diploma program at Academy of Learning Career College in Brampton should possess the following prerequisites:
- Proficient keyboarding skills with a minimum speed and accuracy of 25 words per minute.
- A foundational understanding of personal computers and their applications in a professional setting.
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the Conference and Event Planner Diploma program at Academy of Learning Career College in Brampton are well-prepared for diverse and exciting career opportunities. Our graduates find employment with a variety of organizations, including:
- Tourism agencies
- Trade and professional associations
- Convention and conference centers
- Government agencies
- Conference and event planning companies
Specific career paths aligned with the skills developed in this program include:
- Conference and Meeting Planner
- Conference Planner
- Conference Services Officer
- Convention Coordinator
- Event Planner
- Special Events Organizer
- Trade Show Planner
Duties and Responsibilities
Conference and Event Planners, as graduates of the Academy of Learning Career College in Brampton program, are responsible for the comprehensive planning, organization, and coordination of a wide range of events. These events can include conferences, conventions, meetings, seminars, exhibitions, trade shows, festivals, and various other corporate and company events. The specific job duties may vary depending on education and experience, but typically encompass:
- Meeting with trade and professional associations, sponsors, and other groups to effectively plan the scope and format of events. This includes establishing and meticulously monitoring budgets and administrative procedures, as well as promoting and discussing conference, convention, and trade show services.
- Coordinating all essential services for events, such as arranging transportation, securing suitable venues, organizing catering, developing marketing collateral, and ensuring comprehensive security measures.
- Expertly managing the logistics of events and trade shows, ensuring smooth and efficient execution.
- Addressing any on-site situations with prompt and effective decision-making, resolving issues as they arise.
- Organizing participant registration processes, preparing informative programs and compelling promotional materials, and effectively publicizing events to maximize attendance.
- Planning engaging entertainment and social gatherings for participants, enhancing the overall event experience.
- Efficiently hiring, providing thorough training, and effectively supervising support staff required for the successful execution of events.
- Ensuring strict compliance with all relevant bylaws and regulations.
- Negotiating contracts for services, approving suppliers’ invoices, and keeping financial records are important tasks. Reviewing final bills for events and preparing detailed reports is also essential.