Marking 25 years, PIE25 offers unparalleled networking, insightful discussions, and unique opportunities to connect, learn, and grow within the parking industry.
By Kevin Uhlenhaker
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For 25 years, the Parking Industry Expo (PIE) has been the go-to event for professionals across the parking and mobility landscape. This year, as we celebrate PIE25 from March 31 to April 3 in Schaumburg, Illinois, we are doubling down on what has always made this conference special — connections.
Whether you are a first-time attendee or an industry veteran, our goal is simple — to create an environment where you can form new relationships, strengthen existing ones, and engage in conversations that will propel your business and career forward.
A conference built on connection
At its core, PIE25 is all about fostering meaningful connections. This year, we have organized the event to provide both structured and organic networking opportunities, ensuring that everyone — whether exhibitor, sponsor, or attendee — has ample chances to engage with others in the industry.
We’re rolling out multiple new initiatives to make these connections easier than ever. Our Quick Connect Zone, located right on the trade show floor, will provide a dedicated space for attendees to meet and engage in spontaneous conversations. High-top tables and conversation prompts will encourage discussions, and we will have staff on hand to facilitate introductions. If you’re standing in this space, you’re signaling that you’re open to a chat — simple as that.
For those who enjoy a little competition, our new digital scavenger hunt will provide an interactive way to engage with fellow attendees. Using an app, participants will search for and connect with people based on fun prompts — like finding someone who was born in Germany or perhaps even someone who happens to publish Parking Today. Both parties earn points, and prizes await those who fully embrace the game. The best part? You can participate actively or passively — either by seeking out others or simply making yourself available to be found.
Structured networking with a fun twist
We know that structured networking can take the pressure off making new connections, so we’ve incorporated several engaging options:
Speed Networking – This event offers a fast-paced way to meet multiple industry professionals in a short time.
Dinner Club – Monday night, attendees can sign up to be paired with six to ten others for a casual dinner, hosted by one of our exhibitors or sponsors — no sales pitches, just good conversation! Best of all, it’s free.
Casino Night – Tuesday evening, enjoy a relaxed setting where you can test your luck at the tables while meeting new people.
PIE Connection Zone – This area will feature pickleball courts, yard games, and informal seating areas to connect in a casual, fun environment. The Pickleball Tournament on Monday morning includes brackets for both experienced and inexperienced players. Additionally, the PIE Connection Zone will be open after dinner on Monday and Tuesday nights for anyone wanting to play.
Real talk: addressing the issues that matter
Beyond traditional industry discussions, PIE25 will feature Real Talk Forums, where we tackle the topics that affect parking professionals as people first. Issues like mental health, leadership, and workplace dynamics will be addressed in facilitated discussions, ensuring that we engage in conversations that go beyond technology and operations.
We’re also excited to introduce ParkFlix, a first-of-its-kind film festival. This innovative program will showcase short films about parking, followed by panel discussions with the filmmakers. It’s a creative approach to exploring industry challenges and solutions through a new lens — literally and figuratively.
A focus on parking standards
Our goal here is to foster conversation around parking standards. We will address three key parking standards or areas where standards currently exist or are in discussions, with panel discussions about the current state and future direction of these standards. These discussions are designed to initiate ongoing conversations, which we will continue in our content channels long after the show concludes.
Welcoming everyone in the parking industry
PIE has always been about inclusivity. That’s why, this year, we’re offering free registration for industry professionals who are currently between jobs.
PIE25 is many things: a networking event, a celebration of our shared — and often thankless — profession, a chance to learn, and an opportunity to shape the industry, but it’s not a job fair. That said, you will have the opportunity to reconnect with other parking professionals, build your personal brand, stay current with trends, and talk with people potentially in positions to hire you. Companies are always looking to hire good people; in my experience, good relationships lead to good hires.
A celebration of 25 years
This year’s PIE isn’t just a conference; it’s a celebration of 25 years of fostering community within the parking industry. Many professionals attended their first-ever industry event at PIE, and we take pride in being that welcoming entry point. I know this personally — PIE was the first trade show I attended while serving as co-founder and CEO of NuPark. It was my introduction to the industry, and I know many others share a similar story.
As we look to the next 25 years, we want to ensure that PIE remains the most connected show in the industry — where professionals don’t just exchange business cards but build lasting relationships.
If you haven’t yet registered, now is the time. Come be part of the conversations, the camaraderie, and the connections that will define the future of parking. I look forward to seeing you at PIE25!
KEVIN UHLENHAKER is the chief executive officer and publisher of Parking Today Media. He can be reached at kevin@parkingtoday.com.
