From Presence to Partnership: Key Takeaways from PCMA Convening Leaders

The biggest takeaway from PCMA Convening Leaders in Philadelphia wasn’t just what we learned.

It was the energy of the community.

As the DMC partner, Access was proud to support multiple programs throughout the week while connecting with planners, partners, and industry leaders across the tradeshow floor, known as The District. The space carried a constant buzz...conversations, collaboration, and future programs already taking shape. Clients stopped by our booth between mainstage sessions and breakouts to talk through what’s next, what’s changing, and where they need support, and we were loving it.

That engagement extended beyond the show floor. The Philadelphia Meetings and Events community showed up in a big way, with venues, hotels, and local partners working together to showcase the strength and community of Philly!

For our team, the value of PCMA wasn’t just attending. It was participating, listening, and learning alongside our clients so we can bring stronger solutions back to the work we do every day.

Here are some key takeaways from the conference, because we’re here as your industry resource, gathering the best intel and serving it up into tasty bite-sized pieces:

Agility over certainty

Leaders are being asked to move faster and make decisions without waiting for perfect conditions. Progress matters more than perfection. Choosing a partner that can move quickly with you is imperative.

Focus drives impact

With tighter budgets and higher expectations, success comes down to prioritizing what matters most. One framework surfaced repeatedly: Discover. Differentiate. Design.

Sustainable performance

We learned that research shows productivity declines after extended work hours. The takeaway? Commit to less, so teams (and programs) can perform better.

Technology with intention

Technology and AI were integrated throughout the event, but the strongest examples enhanced participation rather than distracting from it.  From AI-powered personalization to custom learning paths and interactiveenvironments like the Product Garden, the message was clear: technology should support connection, not compete with it. Because despite the innovation, the fundamentals haven’t changed. The most impactful shared experiences still deliver novelty, participation, and connection.

Beyond the tradeshow floor

One of the most meaningful moments of the week, and my personal favorite, was the CSR activation, where attendees assembled hygiene kits for children in the local community.  It was a powerful reminder that well-designed events can create impact that extends far beyond the program and into the surrounding community.

PCMA confirmed what we’re seeing across the industry. The pace isn’t slowing down, but the approach is becoming more focused, more intentional, and more partnership-driven.

As expectations rise, it’s worth saying out loud: planners aren’t looking for someone to simply “run the program.” They’re looking for a partner. One who brings deep local insight, operational excellence, and strategic perspective to the table from day one.

Beyond our presence as the only partner at PCMA, our focus was education. We shared how Access delivers national consistency backed by true local expertise. We don’t see ourselves as a provider with our clients, we’re part of your team. We lean into the challenges, align around priorities, and help shape the strategy that brings experiences to life.

Because the role of a DMC today isn’t just operational. It’s strategic. It’s innovative. And it requires a team ready to deliver on every front from big-picture thinking to flawless execution.

Shared experiences. Inspired people. That’s the standard.