Member Showcase - CMP Spotlight - August 2025

Chelsea Skalski, CMP Events Manager Georgia Dental Association

* When you were initially considering earning the Certified Meeting Professional ("CMP") designation, please share what motivated you to pursue the CMP? I realized that I loved this industry and career, and I wanted to deepen my knowledge of best practices in the meetings industry. I know the learning never stops, and the CMP designation was a milestone I wanted to reach to clearly show the scope of my commitment and knowledge as a dedicated Events Manager.

* How did participation in the MPI Georgia Chapter CMP Study Group support your preparation to take the exam? I can say without a doubt the MPI Georgia Chapter's CMP study group is the main reason I passed the CMP exam. The study group structure is great for digesting all the information the CMP study materials have to offer, while the weekly meetings help keep everyone accountable. Without that encouragement and accountability, it is too easy for everyday life to get in the way and de-rail your plans. Connie & Gregg were also great at explaining the format of the exam and making sure we felt as prepared as we could be prior to going in. I knew exactly what to expect on exam day, and it was just how they had described it. 

* Your Study Group had their weekly sessions on Zoom; what was that experience like for you? Personally having the group meetings on Zoom was perfect. I usually got home only about 20 minutes before our session started because of my work schedule and location. Having meetings virtually helped with timing and flexibility. My study group was fully engaged with camera and audio on, and we had excellent reviews and discussions of the topics each week.

* You took the Beta version of the CMP exam; were you aware that you were helping create the new CMP Exam and supporting the Events Industry Council by participating in the Beta exam which was only given April 1 – May 31? I was aware that I was taking the Beta exam, but I did not realize how much it might affect the questions and final version of the new CMP exam, so that is exciting. 

* How did you feel when you received your exam results on August 6th and saw the words "You Passed" ? I actually received the Credly badge email first, and I wasn't sure if it was legit or not. After doing some quick research, with shaking hands, I found my certificate and knew I had passed. It was such a relief after months of waiting for the result. I was very excited to share the news with everyone who had supported me along the way, and I was proud of myself for setting earning my CMP designation as a professional development goal and accomplishing it. The CMP is terrific validation that yes, I do know this industry, and this career path is the right choice for me. 

* Has having your CMP designation enhanced your position as a knowledgeable industry expert? In my opinion - absolutely! I started implementing key aspects of the information I was learning even while I was studying for the exam. 

* Do you find information you learned while studying to take the exam helpful in your positions since earning your CMP and are you able to use some of the formulas, etc., to help guide meetings you are managing? Yes, in fact I am working on my budget for our big annual convention next year and am using the formulas regularly. I'm also using this knowledge in helping understand the exhibitors world as I am reviewing RFPs that were sent out for next years convention.

* Reflecting on your having achieved the CMP designation, do you feel it was a good use of your time and resources to take that step? I definitely think this was a good use of my time and an excellent step for the growth of my career. I love planning and managing events, and achieving this designation will help me continue as a top performer in this industry.

* Being our MPI Georgia Chapter's most recent CMP, how has that experience validated your dedication to professional development? Earning this designation has helped encourage my commitment to a career as a meeting and event professional. I cannot wait to see where my career goes, and how much more I can learn. 

* What words of encouragement would you have for future CMP candidates? When you're scared to take the leap, do it anyway. You'll find new ways to surprise and be proud of yourself.