ICMS and AIME 2025: Industry Engagement in Action

The Asia Pacific Incentives and Meetings Event (AIME), held in Melbourne this February, offered industry professionals the platform to connect, share ideas, and explore emerging trends.  

ICMS proved once again that education and real-world experience can go hand in hand, thanks to the active involvement of its lecturers and students. 

Tackling Gen Z in the Workplace

ICMS Event Program Manager, Janene Wardrop, took centre stage with her thought-provoking session, ‘The Z Factor – How to Lead Gen Z Within Your Teams’. 

This workshop provided practical advice to help attendees manage and mentor Gen Z employees in multi-generational workplaces. 

Janene’s session offered tips on communication and inclusivity, supported by real-world examples.  

Participants gained valuable insights into leveraging Gen Z’s strengths and building cohesive teams.  

Her expertise in tackling workplace challenges left a strong impact on attendees. 

Students Putting Theory Into Practice

For three ICMS Bachelor of Event Management students – Isabella Webster, Alannah McGrath, and Maya Zeissler – the AIME Next Steps Program was their gateway to the heart of the events industry.  

Over two weeks, they worked alongside the AIME team, helping organise and deliver one of the region’s largest event expos. 

Maya reflected on the experience, calling it “invaluable”.  

“It was incredible seeing an exhibition of this size from start to finish. I learned so much and networked with professionals from around the world,” she said. 

Isabella also appreciated the insights gained during the program, crediting ICMS lecturers like Janene for equipping her with the tools to succeed.  

The experience, according to her, offered both a practical lens into the industry and meaningful opportunities to connect with professionals. 

Bridging Education and Industry

Janene Wardrop expressed pride in the students’ achievements, noting the positive feedback they received from event organisers and attendees. 

“It’s great to see our students from ICMS immersed in industry, gaining knowledge outside the classroom,” she said.  

This aligns with ICMS’s hands-on, job-ready approach to education. 

The Power of Real Experience

AIME 2025 highlighted ICMS’s strong industry partnerships and commitment to preparing graduates for their chosen careers.  

Whether it was Janene leading a dynamic, solutions-focused workshop or students gaining real, hands-on experience, the event showed the tangible benefits of an ICMS education. 

At ICMS, students and staff don’t just learn about the industry – they become a part of it.  

This immersive approach gives ICMS graduates a clear edge as they step into the professional world, equipped with the skills and confidence to succeed.