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Carl Pugh

President, Radius Events

Carl Pugh has launched and acquired dozens of trade shows, published numerous articles in the trade press and speaks frequently at industry events. As president of Radius Events (www.radiusevents.com), he manages conferences and expositions and consults on trade show acquisitions for some of the industry’s most prominent organizations. At the peak of the Internet boom, Carl’s team attracted a combined attendance of more than 125,000 technology professionals annually and floored a collective 750,000 net square feet in exhibits. In the past 20 years Pugh has been division president at Conference Management Corporation (CMC), Cowles Event Management, Mecklermedia and Penton Media. He is founder of Photo District News, the nation’s leading trade journal for professional photographers and PHOTO EXPO, the largest event of its kind in the world. Carl served as chairman of the Society of Independent Show Organizers and was on SISO's board for ten years.

"SISO Exchanges bring together thought leaders to share stories, spark new ideas, and turn inspiration into action. For me, they have created a space to learn, share insights, and build meaningful conversations with people who understand both the challenges and opportunities of our industry. By connecting professionals face-to-face, these organizations and the events they host create communities where great ideas are born."
Kate Youngstrom, Head of Marketing, RX US & Mexico
“Being a member of the SISO Marketing Exchange has been incredibly valuable to me. What makes this group so impactful is the opportunity to hear directly from a diverse group of peers who face many of the same challenges. The collaboration and open exchange of ideas consistently inspire me with fresh perspectives and new ways to address the challenges facing my team.”
Lauren Ocoma - Group Vice President, Brand Strategy and Commercial Development – FDIC
"The Founder’s Exchange has been incredibly meaningful to me as a business owner and conference organizer. It’s a rare space where small businesses can speak candidly about real challenges and opportunities. The conversations are thoughtful, practical, and grounded in shared experience. I’ve gained valuable insights, strong peer connections, a renewed sense of community that continues to shape how I grow and lead the business."
Brad Graver, President - Secure World
“Two of the best acquisitions Access Intelligence had executed came directly from contacts and discussions held at the SISO CEO Summit. Beyond that important networking for transactions, I learn best practices from the best in the industry. The ROI for membership is immeasurable.”
Don Pazour, CEO, Access Intelligence
Being a member of SISO has allowed me to navigate the dynamic landscape of our industry in the most effective way possible. Personally, it’s been a journey of continuous learning, networking, and collaboration that fosters deep relationships with industry leaders. Professionally, the insights I’ve gained, the resources I have accessed, and the collaborative initiatives and advocacy work have helped to take my organization to new heights. SISO, to me, is an indispensable asset for my career and business.
Liz Irving, CEO, Clarion Events
“Without a doubt the most valuable three days of the year for networking, learning, and meeting colleagues.”
Tony Calanca, Calanca & Associates LLC
“Our industry thrives on the personal relationships that face-to-face builds, and the CEO Summit is the ultimate place to build YOUR network!”
Tom Mitchell, President, Messe Dusseldorf North America
“As busy, independent, for-profit organizer, SISO keeps our company connected to all the key players working in this industry and allows great relationships and ongoing learning of best practices from the best in the business. All invaluable assets to help move our business forward."
Howard Hauben, CEO, H2 Events
“The SISO membership represents the entire for-profit tradeshow community and the annual SISO conferences are must-attend events for their educational and networking value.”
Joel A. Davis, Founder & CEO, JD Events