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46-Week Conference and Event Planning Training Program in BC

Become a Skilled Conference and Event Planner

Meetings, events, and conventions are one of the fastest-growing segments of the economy and embrace multiple aspects of all industries. Conference and Event Planners plan and coordinate every aspect of the event, from guests to food and beverages, staff, security, and entertainment.

Start your career in event planning today.

The Conference and Event Planning Diploma is designed to prepare you for careers in the fast-paced and exciting world of conference and event management through our innovative Integrated Learning System™ (ILS).

This program appeals to individuals who are charismatic, outgoing, energetic, and entrepreneurial, as the Conference and Event Planner plays a dynamic role within any organization. Its objective is to expose you to a broad range of knowledge and processes, administration skills, and practical tools that will assist you in dealing with situations within a conference and event planning related career.

This program will provide you with:

  • The knowledge and skills necessary to lead and/or assist in the development and/or implementation of conferences and events for a variety of business sectors.
  • An introduction to the most relevant aspects of planning and coordinating event logistics.
  • Professional skills in high demand by employers. These skills include: negotiating, decision making, team-work, communication, customer service, leadership, research and problem-solving.
  • Solid knowledge of event planning and marketing practices and principles.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications.

Is a Career as a Conference and Event Planner Right For You? Find Out!

Take the AOLCC "Conference and Event Planner Career Training Readiness Quiz"

This fun, online quiz takes 3 minutes to complete and you'll get a personalized report. Identify your strengths and social style plus the training and positions you're best suited for.
Get Your Conference and Event Planner Career Training Readiness Score Now >>

Career Opportunities

Graduates of this program are employed by tourism, trade and professional associations, convention and conference centers, government agencies and conference and event planning companies. Careers that correspond with the skills learned in this program include:

  • Conference and Meeting Planner
  • Conference Planner
  • Conference Services Officer
  • Convention Coordinator
  • Event Planner
  • Special Events Organizer
  • Trade Show Planner

Duties and Responsibilities

Conference and Event Planners plan, organize and coordinate conferences, conventions, meetings, seminars, exhibitions, trade shows, festivals and other corporate/company events. Specific job duties vary with education and experience and may include:

  • Meet with trade and professional associations, sponsor, and other groups to plan the scope and format of events, to establish and monitor budgets, administrative procedures, to promote and discuss conference, convention and trade show services
  • Coordinate services for events, such as transportation venue, catering, marketing collateral and security
  • Manage the logistics of events and trade shows
  • Deal with on-site situations with prompt decision making
  • Organize registration of participants, prepare programs and promotional material, and publicize events
  • Plan entertainment and social gatherings for participants
  • Hire, train and supervise support staff required for events
  • Ensure compliance with required by-laws
  • Negotiate contracts for services, approve suppliers' invoices, maintain financial records, review final billing submitted to clients for events and prepare reports

Admission Requirements

Grade 12 or equivalent or Mature Student Status. Courses are open to any applicant who possesses a good command of the English language and is able to follow instruction. An admissions interview will be administered to determine if the applicant has the required interest, motivation, and entry-level skills to take this program. Full-time students must attend the required hours per week as per the course schedule and may do so at times convenient to them. Part-time students may set their own schedules to a minimum of two training sessions per week. These times may be scheduled during the day, evenings, or on weekends.

Program Outline

  • Word Processing

    Intermediate level of proficiency in Microsoft Word

  • Spreadsheets

    Basic level of proficiency in Microsoft Excel

  • Graphics/Presentation

    Basic level of proficiency in Microsoft PowerPoint and Microsoft Publisher

  • Data Management

    Basic level of proficiency in Microsoft Access

  • Simulations and Drills

    Practical Applications – 2 Units

  • Office Skills

    Basic level of proficiency in Microsoft Outlook, Personal Computer Fundamentals for End Users, Internet Fundamentals, Bookkeeping Level 1 and Level 2, and Office Procedures Level 1 and Level 2

  • Business Skills

    Customer Service, Grammar Essentials for Business Writing, Business Correspondence Levels 1 and 2, Business Essentials, Business Math, Marketing and Sales, Conference and Event Management, Event Marketing, Microsoft Project Level 1, Project Management Fundamentals Level 1, Business Negotiations and Contracts, Management Fundamentals, Business Supervisory Skills, Business Verbal Communication, and Business Presentations

  • Employability Skills

    Job Search and Résumé Writing, Employment Success Strategies, and Thought Patterns for a Successful Career

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AOLCC’s Integrated Learning System™

All courses in our programs are delivered through our unique Integrated Learning System™ (ILS). Through ILS, you will develop a true proficiency in each topic, no matter your age or skill level upon enrolment. Our learning coaches are with you every step of the way to provide individualized assistance and encouragement in a supportive and non-competitive learning environment.

Here’s how it works:

  • You only advance to the next course when you are confident that you have mastered one topic and are ready to move on to the next
  • You participate in hands-on exercises, tasks and practice exams that test your knowledge and give you confidence

Is Career Training Right For You? Find Out!

Take the Academy of Learning "Career Training Readiness Quiz"

This fun, online quiz takes 3 minutes to complete and you’ll get a personalized report. Identify your strengths and social style plus the training and positions you’re best suited for.Get Your Career Training Readiness Score Now

Accreditations

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B.C. Private Training
Institutions Branch

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B.C. Education
Quality Assurance

What Our Students Say About Us

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Explore the heartfelt testimonials from our satisfied students

Chantelle M

Office Clerk

"I came to AOLCC in September 2019 and I am glad I did. I came to here to better my education and enhance my skills. The staff are very friendly and help you whenever you need. I would highly recommend Academy of Learning because it is self-pace – you do it on your own time. Thank you AOL!!"

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5.0

Lori Germain

Medical & Social Services

"I chose to come attend AOLCC to further my education, to become self-sufficient, self-empowered and to get back into the work force doing what I truly love, to empower others suffering with addictions. I heard about the college from another student who enjoyed the school and her course. It was a good experience and I felt supported, always knowing there were coaches and help when I needed it. I was always supported and encouraged and I really enjoyed my time at AOLCC."

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5.0

Paula Hodgess

Medical & Social Services

"If and when I need extra training in any category, I will definitely be coming back to the Academy of Learning Career College. School has never come easy to me, but being here has been an excellent and very rewarding experience for me. Especially the support I received from Helen and Kyle, THEY ARE THE BEST!"

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5.0

Cathy Scheck

Administrative Assistant

"I was out of the country for 4 years and when I came back to Canada, I applied for some clerical positions with no luck. I found that most companies wanted certificates. That is when I came to AOLCC and with the help of the facilitators, I made the decision to enrol for the Administrative Assistant Diploma. I feel I learned a lot in every subject that I will take forward into a new career path."

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5.0

Tracy Gallup

Technology & Design

"Going to AOLCC has been a very good experience for me. The staff was informative and polite. Courses were taught very well and all my questions were answered. Thanks to the staff for everything."

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5.0

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Frequently Asked Questions

What career training programs are available in British Columbia?

AOLCC offers more than 30 diploma and certificate programs in business, healthcare, technology, accounting, and administration across Kamloops, Kelowna, Nanaimo, and Victoria.

How long does it take to complete a diploma?

Most programs are completed in 4 to 12 months. The self-paced structure means motivated students can finish even faster.

Is government funding available?

Yes. Eligible students in British Columbia may qualify for both federal and provincial funding options. This includes financial assistance that allows you to work full-time while studying, receive increased living allowances, and access zero-interest loans.

Can I work while attending AOLCC?

Absolutely. Our flexible learning model is designed for students who need to balance school with part-time or full-time work. Many of our students work while completing their programs.

Where are AOLCC campuses located?

We currently have campuses in Kamloops, Kelowna, Nanaimo, and Victoria - WestShore, with programs tailored to the needs of each region.

Our Campuses in British Columbia

With campuses in four strategic locations, AOLCC is your go-to career college in BC

Each AOLCC campus serves as a local hub for career skills training and community connection. Whether you are searching for colleges in Kamloops, BC, colleges in Nanaimo, BC, or a career college in Kelowna, our campuses are easily accessible and connected to local employers.

Kamloops

699 Victoria Street
A welcoming, centrally located campus in the heart of the city

Kelowna

347 Leon Avenue
Serving the Okanagan with flexible programs for career starters and changers

Nanaimo

1551 Estevan Road
Conveniently located for students on Vancouver Island seeking certificate programs

Victoria - WestShore

754 Goldstream Avenue
Offering diploma and certificate programs to students in Greater Victoria and beyond

Our campuses are accessible via public transit, and many offer nearby parking options. If you’re looking for career training in other BC locations, we can connect you with our extended AOLCC network.

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