IAFE Institute of Fair Management

                                                                                                  IFM Management Grad Track 

                                                                                                                2024

Registration has closed

The IAFE Institute of Fair Management (IFM) Certification Tracks are specialized, continuing education programming for IFM graduates.  This senior-level coursework is presented through varying methods of instruction CyberSeminar, Instructor-led, Case Study, and Service-Learning Projects. 

Upon completion, the enrollee will become “certified” in the respective track completion. They will receive a certificate of accomplishment valid for five years.  Every five years a minimum of three approved continuing education courses are required to maintain “Certified Status.”  Individuals will then be re-certified for an additional five years, receiving an updated certificate. Continuing education courses are offered through the IAFE at the annual conventions, management conferences, zone meetings, and other IAFE events. 

IAFE IFM CERTIFICATION TRACKS

1.     MANAGEMENT (2024)

2.     ENTERTAINMENT AND PROGRAMMING (2024)

3.     MARKETING AND PROMOTIONS (2025)

4.     FACILITIES MANAGEMENT (2025)

5.     LEADERSHIP (2026)

6.     SPONSORSHIP AND FUNDRAISING (2026)

IFM graduates may enroll in one track per year. Tracks will be offered every three years. Completion of all six tracks is not required.  Once you complete a track, you will be certified within that track.  However, all six tracks may be completed if an individual choose to do so.

INVESTMENT: The investment for each track is $649 (USD).  This includes all coursework, required program CyberSeminars, and registration to the IFM Summit, where the enrollees will present their case study findings. This does not include travel and registration expenses for the Annual Convention or travel-related expenses to the IFM Summit.

MANAGEMENT TRACK (2024)

Upper-level course work that links industry operations, management, and other business functions such as human resources, supervision challenges, organization behavior, diversity, communication and legal trends.   

 Coursework includes: 

#201 Today's Challenges of Supervision: Navigating a Diversified Workplace (CyberSeminar)
In today's rapidly evolving work landscape, effective supervision is crucial for ensuring organizational success. The challenges facing supervisors are multifaceted, encompassing not only the relationships with their subordinates but also with other supervisors, upper management, board of directors, and volunteers. This session, designed exclusively for fair staff, delves deep into the intricacies of supervisory roles and equips attendees with practical solutions to overcome these challenges. Presented by: Leslie Cunningham, CEO – Impacts and Profits, Thursday, February 29, 2024

 #202 Unlocking the Secrets of Organizational Behavior: Unveiling the Forces that Shape Workplace Dynamics (CyberSeminar) 

Join us for an enlightening session as we delve into the fascinating realm of organizational behavior. In this immersive exploration, we will uncover the profound impacts that individual, group, and organizational structures exert on behavior within the workplace.

As fair leaders, you understand that a harmonious and productive work environment is the cornerstone of success. However, navigating the intricate web of human behavior can be both challenging and perplexing. That is why this session is designed to equip you with the knowledge and insights needed to decode the complexities of organizational behavior. Presented by Jaryth Barten, Kansas Leadership Center, Thursday, March 28, 2024

#203 Navigating the Legal Landscape: Unraveling Laws That Guide Today’s Issues (CyberSeminar)

A thought-provoking session where we delve into the intricacies of the first amendment and its impact on contemporary challenges. Discover how consistent application of theming and programming rules can empower you to effectively control your event and its attendees. Gain invaluable insights into the realm of livestock/animal litigation, exploring violations of fitting and ethics rules. Learn how to develop and implement a comprehensive plan to minimize your organization's exposure to legal risks. This session is essential for fair staff seeking to enhance their understanding of the legal framework that governs today's issues. Join us and become adept at navigating the complex legal landscape with confidence and expertise. Presented by Jim Tucker, IAFE Legal Counsel, April 25, 2024

#204 "Bridging the Generational Gap: Unifying Diverse Perspectives for High-Performing Teams" (CyberSeminar)

Diversity, a concept that encompasses a myriad of differences, plays a pivotal role in the 21st-century workplace. However, it is crucial to recognize that age, as an additional dimension of diversity, must be considered to foster harmonious collaboration. In today's dynamic work environment, where five generations coexist, it becomes increasingly challenging for leaders to connect with colleagues from different age groups.

This thought-provoking session delves into the complexities of bridging the generational gap within teams and offers practical strategies for leaders to effectively engage team members of all ages. By exploring the intricacies of intergenerational communication, participants will gain insights into how senior leaders can establish meaningful connections with their younger counterparts, and conversely, how younger leaders can effectively communicate with older team members. Presented by Bernee Long – May 30, 2024

#205 De-Escalation: What Is It and How Do We Provide our Staff and Volunteers to De-escalate Volatile Situations. (CyberSeminar)

Angry and out-of-control guests. Staff and volunteers caught up in a heated exchange. It may all be captured on a cell phone video and goes viral in seconds. Or worse. How can we identify and deal with these situations, but more importantly, train our staff and volunteers to understand and de-escalate? This session will introduce the topic of de-escalation, and then drill down into scalable tactics for training staff and volunteers so that everyone can remain safe during the fair. Presented by Jeff Cotner, State Fair of Texas -  August 8, 2024

#206 "The Untold Stories Behind Effective Lobbying: A Philosophical Overview” (CyberSeminar)

Discover the untold stories behind effective lobbying in this captivating session that goes beyond the nuts and bolts of basic practices. Join us as delve into the intricate world of working with the legislature, exploring the diverse personalities and pitfalls that lobbyists may encounter. This presentation is tailored to fair staff who are committed to understanding the deeper philosophy behind successful lobbying.

Engage with industry experts who will share their firsthand experiences and insights, providing you with invaluable knowledge to navigate the complex landscape of lobbying. Learn how to build lasting relationships with policymakers, understand the psychology of decision-making, and overcome the challenges that come your way. Presented by John Airale, HB Strategies, September 26, 2024.

#207 Mastering Contracts: From RFP to Contract Administration (Presenter-led)
An in-depth course that will equip Fair staff with the essential skills and knowledge needed for successful contract negotiation and administration. This comprehensive session will delve into the intricacies of the contracts process, covering everything from crafting effective Request for Proposals (RFPs) and Request for Qualifications (RFQs) to ensuring seamless contract administration.
As we explore the art of negotiation, you will learn proven techniques and tactics to conduct effective negotiations, ensuring favorable outcomes for your organization. We will also emphasize the significance of documenting the final agreement accurately and comprehensively, safeguarding the interests of all parties involved.  Presented by: Jim Tucker, IAFE Legal Counsel, at 2024 IAFE convention, Phoenix, AZ

Service-Learning Project: An integrated activity that connects the concepts and principles of this track to real-life application through volunteerism.  Each participant will gain practical experience while focusing on management/operation activities.  Minimum eight volunteer hours.  To be approved by your mentor.

Case Study: Enrollees will be assigned an active case study related to Management/Operations. The group will evaluate the case through provided guidelines, actively engage with the event, and provide their final recommendation with a presentation to the IAFE Education Advisory Board at the 2025 Management Conference. An industry mentor to aid the group in their case study efforts will be provided. 

Testing:  In order to complete the track certification, enrollees are required to successfully pass a final exam, administered online.  A passing score is considered 90 percent or greater. Enrollees will be provided multiple opportunities to achieve a passing score.

Re-Certification: Upon completion, the enrollee will become “certified” in the respective track completed.  Every five years a minimum of three approved continuing education courses are required to maintain “Certified Status.”  Continuing education courses are offered, through the IAFE, at the annual conventions, management conferences, zone meetings, and other IAFE events. 

**Coursework subject to change, courses available ONLY to those enrolled in the corresponding IFM certification track.

2024 Track Registration is closed.

Contact Lori Hart, CFE – Director of Education and Member Services lhart@fairsandexpos.com