Lifetime Achievement Award – Dan Joyce

Presented by Jill Kivett.

Our second Lifetime Achievement award has spent more than four decades shaping the Canadian meetings and exposition industry through visionary leadership, entrepreneurship, and an unwavering commitment to innovation. Over the course of an exceptional career, this individual has launched and developed numerous conferences, trade shows, and exhibitions across a wide range of sectors, creating valuable business opportunities, fostering industry growth, and generating lasting economic impact.

A long-time CAEM member, Board volunteer, and committee leader, this recipient has generously contributed their expertise to advancing the association and supporting industry education. Their influence extends well beyond the events they have produced, having played a key role in mentoring emerging professionals and sharing knowledge with the next generation of event leaders.

During periods of significant industry challenge, including the COVID-19 pandemic, this individual demonstrated remarkable leadership by advocating for the business events sector, developing best-practice guidelines, and helping industry stakeholders navigate unprecedented change. Widely respected as a builder, innovator, and mentor, their legacy can be seen not only in the successful events they created, but in the countless professionals and organizations they have inspired along the way.

The recipient of the 2026 Lifetime Achievement Award is Dan Joyce of J&J Expositions Inc.