Meet Ellen Maiara, CMP, CED
Strategic Event Leader & Credential Ecosystem Expert
My Story
How This Work Found Me
My career began in technical theater.
As a kid, I loved going to Broadway shows—not because I wanted to be on stage, but because I was fascinated by what was happening behind it. I wanted to understand how everything worked: the lighting, the timing, the choreography of people and technology that made the entire production come to life.
That curiosity eventually led me to work both on and off Broadway for several years.
What I Do
Over time, another stage began calling my name—meetings and events. I discovered that conferences had a similar kind of magic: when everything works together, they can create powerful moments of learning, connection, and inspiration.
Over the years, I planned hundreds of professional events and worked closely with associations across many industries.
Along the way, I began noticing something interesting.
The conference team, the certification team, and the education team were often working independently—even though their programs were meant to serve the same professionals.
Today, my work focuses on helping organizations design connected learning experiences that bring these elements together, creating clearer journeys for professionals and stronger engagement for the organizations that serve them.
The Three Ways I Do This Work
Strategic Experience Leadership
I work with credential-driven associations to improve how conferences, continuing education, and certification programs work together.
This includes diagnosing gaps in the certification ecosystem and helping leadership teams design a more connected professional journey.
Conference and Meeting Strategy
With more than two decades of experience designing conferences and events, I help organizations create gatherings that educate, connect, and inspire their communities.
These events become powerful platforms for learning, engagement, and organizational growth.
Event Solutions Academy
Through the Event Solutions Academy, I teach event professionals how to earn the Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) credential and advance their careers.
More than 2,000 professionals from around the world have participated in the program, which has achieved a 98% exam success rate.
Helping professionals reach this milestone remains one of the most rewarding parts of my work.
What Drives My Work
I’m fascinated by how professionals learn and grow throughout their careers.
Great conferences, education programs, and credential systems don’t just deliver information — they create moments where people gain confidence, develop new skills, and move forward professionally.
Designing those experiences thoughtfully can change careers and strengthen entire professional communities.
Let's Start the Conversation
If you’re thinking about how your organization can create stronger learning experiences through conferences, credential programs, or continuing education, I’d love to connect.