Association memberships, EDPA participation, and leadership roles shape experiential agency strategy and business growth. In this clip, Chris Griffin, President Emeritus of the EDPA and executive at CrewXP, unpacks what being deeply involved in industry associations like EDPA, ECA, IFES, ESCA, and CISO actually means for exhibit houses and custom builders aiming to future-proof their businesses. Drawing on decades of frontline leadership, Chris breaks down how strategic membership and volunteer roles can impact your company through advocacy, workforce development, and genuine networking, not just surface-level visibility.

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Get firsthand perspective on why transitioning out of high-profile positions, after years on the front lines during industry-shifting periods (including pandemic-era advocacy and chapter expansion), offers renewed operational focus while still delivering value to the association ecosystem. You’ll walk away understanding the strategic difference between “all-in” volunteerism and sustainable back-to-basics company management; the role industry associations play in policy, talent pipelines, and education; and why planned succession in leadership benefits both the community and your own business. 

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Relevant for agency leaders considering where to invest limited time, next-gen professionals weighing deeper involvement, and any experiential company looking to strengthen industry relationships for long-term resilience.