A Front-Row Seat to COE Summit 2026: Learning, Leading, and Connecting

This spring, I had the opportunity to participate in the COE Summit 2026, and it was a remarkable experience. What made it truly unique was that I got to see the event from two perspectives: as both a volunteer and an attendee.

1. Being the First Point of Contact
   My role as a greeter on Day 1 placed me at the very front of the experience - literally. I was one of the first people welcoming guests as they arrived at the venue. The sheer volume of interactions was both surprising and energizing. While the role might seem straightforward, it required quick thinking and adaptability.
   From guiding attendees to the right rooms to answering unexpected questions, like the nearest pharmacy or where to find souvenirs, it became clear that being a greeter meant being a problem-solver. Having a good understanding of the venue layout was essential, and the event map quickly became my most valuable tool.
2. Leading Industry Leaders (A Role Reversal)
   One of the most memorable parts of the summit was the company tour and mine being with Mills James. It offered a fascinating look into the operational side of a video production business.
   Interestingly, as student volunteers, we were responsible for guiding and coordinating groups, including industry leaders. For once, the dynamic shifted and we were leading, and they were following. It was a subtle but powerful reminder of the leadership roles we are preparing to step into.
3. The Power of Small Roles
   On registration duty, the work felt more structured but no less important. Beyond checking in attendees, it involved coordinating with team members and ensuring we had visibility on who had arrived. It highlighted how even seemingly simple roles are critical to the smooth execution of large-scale events.
4. Beyond Volunteering: Learning and Networking
   One of the biggest advantages of volunteering was the opportunity to attend sessions when off-duty sessions that would otherwise come at a significant cost. These moments allowed me to engage directly with industry insights and trends while also building meaningful connections.
   The support from the Center for Operational Excellence team was exceptional throughout. The environment was both professional and welcoming, making it easy to contribute and learn at the same time.
   And then there were the lighter moments great food throughout the event and even live animals from the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium. The penguin on Day 2 was, without a doubt, the star attraction.
    
5. Choosing Between Great Options
   The final day featured multiple concurrent sessions, each with compelling speakers and topics. Like many attendees, I found myself wishing I could be in two places at once; a good problem to have, and a reflection of the quality of the event.

Looking back, the COE Summit 2026 was more than just a conference. It was an immersive experience in learning, leadership, and connection. Volunteering gave me a different lens for what it takes to run such an event, while attending sessions expanded my perspective on operations and industry practices.
For anyone considering volunteering at a major event: it’s not just about helping out, it’s about stepping in.