The Exhibition Services & Contractors Association (ESCA) has launched ESCA 3.0, a new strategic framework aimed at strengthening the future of the exposition services and exhibition contracting industry. The refreshed priorities were unveiled by ESCA President Randy Pekowski, President and CEO of The Expo Group, during the association’s Summer Educational Conference held in Banff, Canada, in June 2026.
The launch of ESCA 3.0 reflects the association’s focus on addressing the evolving needs of the global exhibition industry, including workforce development, safety, industry representation, operational standards and stronger professional connections.
ESCA 3.0 Focuses on Four Strategic Priorities
The new ESCA 3.0 framework is built around four core priorities designed to support both industry professionals and the wider exhibition ecosystem.
Advocacy & Industry Voice
The first priority focuses on strengthening ESCA’s role as an industry representative and advocate. Through greater policy engagement and industry representation, ESCA aims to ensure that the concerns and priorities of exposition service contractors are effectively communicated to policymakers and other key stakeholders.
A stronger industry voice is increasingly important as exhibition companies navigate changing regulations, business conditions and operational requirements.
NextGen & Workforce Development
Workforce development is another major pillar of ESCA 3.0. The association aims to support the recruitment, training, mentoring and retention of the next generation of exhibition industry professionals.
As the exposition services sector continues to evolve, developing skilled talent will be critical to maintaining operational quality and supporting future growth. ESCA’s focus on mentorship and professional development is intended to help create stronger career pathways within the industry.
Industry Standards & Safety
ESCA 3.0 also places greater emphasis on industry standards, safety and operational efficiency. Establishing and promoting common standards can help improve consistency across exhibition services while supporting safer working environments.
The initiative recognizes the importance of safety and efficient operations in an industry that involves complex event logistics, installation and dismantling activities, transportation and coordination among multiple stakeholders.
Community & Connection
The fourth priority, Community & Connection, focuses on strengthening collaboration and networking throughout the exhibition industry.
ESCA aims to create more opportunities for members and industry professionals to exchange knowledge, build relationships and collaborate on common challenges. Stronger industry connections can contribute to innovation, knowledge sharing and long-term business growth.
Randy Pekowski Leads ESCA 3.0 Initiative
ESCA President Randy Pekowski introduced the new strategic framework during the association’s Summer Educational Conference in Banff. As President and CEO of The Expo Group, Pekowski brings extensive industry leadership experience to the association’s strategic direction.
The launch of ESCA 3.0 signals a renewed focus on making the association more responsive to the changing needs of exposition service contractors and the broader exhibitions community.
ESCA Strengthens Representation on ECA Board
Alongside the launch of ESCA 3.0, the ESCA board appointed Randy Pekowski as its representative on the board of the Exhibitions & Conferences Alliance (ECA).
The ECA is a leading advocacy organization representing the interests of the exhibitions and business events industry. Pekowski’s appointment continues ESCA’s long-standing representation on the ECA board and reinforces the association’s commitment to industry advocacy.
The appointment is also expected to strengthen collaboration between ESCA and other organizations working to advance the exhibition and events sector.
What ESCA 3.0 Means for the Exhibition Industry
The introduction of ESCA 3.0 comes at a time when the exhibition industry is adapting to changing workforce expectations, evolving safety requirements, new operational challenges and increasing demand for collaboration.
By bringing advocacy, workforce development, industry standards and community building together under one strategic framework, ESCA is positioning the association to support its members while contributing to the long-term development of the exposition services industry.
The framework also highlights the importance of cooperation across the exhibition ecosystem. Contractors, organizers, venues, suppliers and other industry stakeholders increasingly depend on shared standards and stronger communication to deliver successful exhibitions and business events.
A New Strategic Direction for ESCA
ESCA 3.0 represents a refreshed strategic direction for the Exhibition Services & Contractors Association. Its four priorities provide a framework for strengthening the industry’s voice, developing future talent, improving standards and safety, and building stronger professional communities.
With continued representation through the ECA and a renewed focus on member development and industry collaboration, ESCA is seeking to play an active role in shaping the next chapter of the global exposition services industry.
