Foster the Future

LDI and our co-located show DSE are committed to helping young professionals advance in their careers.

CONFERENCE: December 4-10, 2024
EXPO: December 8-10, 2024
LAS VEGAS CONVENTION CENTER: West Hall

Foster The Future

In its innovative Foster The Future program, LDI embraces the next generation of industry professionals with special initiatives.

The main focus of Foster The Future is the fourth annual Young Career Professionals Program for those under the age of 25 and developing an interest in a career in live events design and production. Foster The Future also includes The Pat MacKay Diversity In Design Scholarships and LDI's production assisant program.

The next generation of live entertainment design and technology professionals

Accelerate professional growth and position yourself at the forefront of technology, design, and creativity at LDI Show 2024. This event provides rising stars in this industry with unparalleled opportunities to learn from seasoned experts, engage in thought-provoking discussions, and explore the latest trends. By attending, young professionals can build valuable networks, gain fresh perspectives, and acquire the knowledge needed to start or advance their careers.

Why Should Young Professionals Attend LDI Show 2024?

Professional Development: full day of Career Day buzz sessions, keynotes, as well as a tour with Tao Group Hospitality. Plus, full access to LDInnovation Conference and DSE Conference.
Networking Opportunities: Events designed to connect young professionals with experienced professionals, including Breakfast, Lunch, Reception, and more.
Mentorship Programs: Access to mentors and industry leaders for guidance and career advice via the Mentoring Meetup with the LDInnovation League.
Innovation and Trends: Exposure to hundreds of cutting-edge technologies and innovations in the 3-day exhibit hall. Plus, access to the DSE Expo Floor.
Career Advancement: Opportunities for career growth and development through learning and networking, including a Portfolio + Website Review, Headshot Lounge, and more.

Explore YCP Programming

YCP Special Event Features + Initiatives

LDI is committed to fostering the future by helping young professionals advance in their careers.

Sign Up Today

We have scholarship opportunities, hands-on real-world training, and the ability to connect the young professionals with mentors and leaders in the live events and digital signage industries.

Fill out the inquiry form to receive more information and deadlines regarding the Foster the Future Program, which comprises the Pat MacKay Diversity in Design Scholarship, the LDI and DSE PA Program, and the Young Career Professionals Program, which includes access to both show expo halls, an LDInnovation Conference badge and special events for those ages 18-25.

Career Day Schedule

Date: Saturday, December 7, 9:00 am - 4:00 pm
Locations: New Technology Breakfast Room - W2321

Career Day: A full day of Buzz Sessions and a Keynote Lunch for LDI's Young Career Professionals Program, part of our Foster The Future Initiative to support and train the next generations of industry professionals.

Career Day Buzz sessions are open to all LDI attendees, including the Keynote speech. The lunch requires a ticket, including with all Young Career Professional badges or available at LDI registration.

Schedule:
9:00am-10:00am: Orientation & Meet Up Breakfast
10:00am-10:30am: Buzz Session: Brad Schiller, Martin Harman
10:30am-11:00am: Buzz Session: Meow Wolf
11:30am-12:00pm: Buzz Session: Elynmarie Kazle, Stage Managers Association
12:00pm-12:45pm: Career Day Lunch (lunch ticket required)
12:45pm-1:30pm: Career Day Keynote Lunch : Sharon Huizinga, Rock Lititz; University of Cincinnati, College-Conservatory of Music (CCM)- Associate Professor of Lighting
1:30pm-2:00pm: Buzz Session: URTA
2:00pm-2:30pm: Buzz Session: Matt Veitch, Ammonite Studios
2:30pm-3:00pm Buzz Session: Simon Evans: TAO Group
3:00pm-3:30pm: Buzz Session: Laura Frank, frame:work
3:30pm-4:00pm: Buzz Session: Shane Smith, LMG
4:00pm-4:30pm: Networking & Snacks

Additional Career Day Activities:
1:00pm-5:00pm: Portfolio & Web Review (open to all LDI attendees) SIGN UP HERE.

6:00pm: Recruitment tour at Omnia nightclub (open to all Young Career Production badges) Join the Tao Group's Senior Director of Creative AV - Simon Evans as he takes you on a tour in one of the most technologically advanced nightclubs in the world - Omnia! This behind the scenes look will provide a showcase into their legendary 'Chandelier Moment' as well as an intimate discussion on how they run the colossal rig, get close up to their FOH systems and discuss what it takes to join his global team.

LDI Portfolio & Website Review, Lighting & Projection

Date & Time: Saturday, December 7 • 1:00pm – 5:00pm
Location: W205

All students and young professionals are invited to participate in the LDI Portfolio and Website Review. Bring your portfolio and/or digital device to get tips one-on-one from the industry's top professionals. Co-moderated by Brackley Frayer and Deanna Fitzgerald. All participants will get a code for a free LDI expo hall pass.

Pat MacKay Diversity in Design Scholarship Ceremony

Date & Time: Tuesday, December 10, 9am-10am as part of the LDI 2024 Awards Ceremony

Location: Battle of the Busk Stage (near the Circle Bar on the LDI show floor)

Support diversity and inclusion as we acknowledge and celebrate the 2024 recipients of the 6th annual Pat MacKay Diversity In Design Scholarships, sponsored by LDI.

Partners:

Learn More

2024 Pat MacKay Diversity in Design Scholarship Receipients

Foster the Future