Career

How To Become An Exhibition Coordinator In Missouri 2024

Learn everything you need to know about becoming an Exhibition Coordinator, including salary, schools, and programs.

Exhibition Coordinator in Missouri Career Overview

As an Exhibition Coordinator, you play a vital role in planning and executing a variety of events, including trade shows, art exhibits, and educational seminars. This position allows you to bring together various stakeholders, including vendors, artists, and attendees, to create engaging experiences that meet the goals of your organization or clients.

Key aspects of the role include:

  • Event Planning and Management: You coordinate all logistics related to the exhibitions, ensuring that everything runs smoothly from conception through execution.

  • Collaboration: You work closely with teams including marketing, operations, and external partners to align the exhibition with broader organizational goals.

  • Budget Oversight: You are responsible for managing event budgets, making strategic decisions about resource allocation to maximize impact and minimize costs.

  • Venue Selection: You identify and secure appropriate venues that meet the needs of the event and its attendees, considering factors such as location, accessibility, and capacity.

  • Audience Engagement: Connecting with the target audience is key. You develop strategies to attract attendees and enhance their experience during the exhibition.

In the industry, your contributions as an Exhibition Coordinator help to facilitate networking opportunities, promote products or services, and foster community engagement. Your effectiveness in this role can significantly impact the success and reputation of the events you manage.

Exhibition Coordinator Salary in Missouri

Annual Median: $59,130
Hourly Median: $28.43

Data sourced from Career One Stop, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.

Required Education To Become an Exhibition Coordinator in Missouri

To become an Exhibition Coordinator, you typically need to pursue a relevant degree. Below are the educational qualifications you should consider:

  • Art History: This program provides a deep understanding of the historical context and significance of various art forms, which is essential for curating exhibitions.

  • Art Studies: A degree in Art Studies encompasses various aspects of art theory and practice, offering a broad perspective that can be beneficial in coordinating diverse exhibitions.

  • Design and Applied Arts: Focusing on design principles and applied art techniques, this program equips you with the creative insights necessary for developing visually appealing exhibitions.

  • Fine and Studio Arts Management: This degree blends artistic training with management skills, preparing you to handle logistical and organizational aspects of exhibitions while understanding art production processes.

  • Museum Studies: Specialized training in Museum Studies provides you with knowledge about museum operations, preservation of artifacts, and educational programming, all of which are valuable in the role of an Exhibition Coordinator.

In addition to these degree programs, gaining practical experience through internships or volunteer positions at galleries and museums can further enhance your qualifications.

Exhibition Coordinator Job Description:
  • Administer collections, such as artwork, collectibles, historic items, or scientific specimens of museums or other institutions.
  • May conduct instructional, research, or public service activities of institution.

Exhibition Coordinator Required Skills and Competencies in Missouri

  • Project Management: You should possess strong organizational skills to efficiently manage multiple aspects of exhibitions, including timelines, budgets, and logistics.

  • Communication: Effective verbal and written communication skills are essential for liaising with vendors, clients, and team members, as well as for promoting exhibitions.

  • Attention to Detail: You must have a keen eye for detail to ensure that every aspect of the exhibition is executed flawlessly, from layout design to signage.

  • Creative Thinking: The ability to conceptualize and implement innovative ideas that enhance the visitor experience and engage the target audience is important.

  • Problem-Solving: You should be proficient in identifying potential issues and proposing effective solutions under tight deadlines or unexpected circumstances.

  • Negotiation Skills: You need to be skilled in negotiating contracts and agreements with vendors, sponsors, and venues to secure the best possible arrangements.

  • Time Management: Strong time management abilities are required to prioritize tasks and meet various deadlines throughout the planning and execution phases.

  • Technical Proficiency: Familiarity with event management software and tools, as well as basic audio-visual technology, is beneficial for planning and executing exhibitions.

  • Budgeting Skills: You should have a solid understanding of budgeting processes to help manage costs and allocate resources effectively throughout the exhibition planning.

  • Team Collaboration: The ability to work well within a team setting is vital, as you will coordinate with various stakeholders including artists, curators, and marketing teams.

  • Customer Service Orientation: You need to focus on enhancing the attendee experience, addressing concerns, and providing assistance to ensure satisfaction.

  • Flexibility and Adaptability: You should be open to change and able to adjust plans as necessary, responding to feedback or shifts in circumstances quickly and effectively.

Job Duties for Exhibition Coordinators

  • Develop and maintain an institution's registration, cataloging, and basic record-keeping systems, using computer databases.

  • Plan and conduct special research projects in area of interest or expertise.

  • Plan and organize the acquisition, storage, and exhibition of collections and related materials, including the selection of exhibition themes and designs, and develop or install exhibit materials.

Technologies and Skills Used by Exhibition Coordinators

Data base user interface and query software

  • Database software
  • Microsoft Access

Graphics or photo imaging software

  • Adobe Illustrator
  • Adobe Photoshop

Presentation software

  • Microsoft PowerPoint

Basic Skills

  • Reading work related information
  • Talking to others

People and Technology Systems

  • Figuring out how a system should work and how changes in the future will affect it
  • Thinking about the pros and cons of different options and picking the best one

Problem Solving

  • Noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it

Job Market and Opportunities for Exhibition Coordinator in Missouri

The job market for Exhibition Coordinators in Missouri is characterized by a dynamic landscape supported by various industries, including arts, culture, education, and tourism. Here are several key points regarding the current demand, growth potential, and geographical hotspots:

  • Demand for Exhibition Coordinators:
    The demand for Exhibition Coordinators is influenced by the growth of museums, galleries, trade shows, and corporate events. As organizations increasingly rely on exhibitions to engage audiences and promote their brands, the need for skilled coordinators remains strong. This role is essential for ensuring that events run smoothly, meeting both logistical and creative demands.

  • Growth Potential:
    The exhibition sector is expected to expand as more institutions focus on enhancing visitor experiences and integrating innovative technologies into exhibit design. With a constant push for unique and engaging events, there is a projected increase in opportunities for Exhibition Coordinators. Networking and building a strong portfolio can significantly enhance your growth prospects in this field.

  • Geographical Hotspots:
    Missouri boasts several cities with burgeoning opportunities for Exhibition Coordinators, including:

    • St. Louis: Home to numerous museums, galleries, and event spaces, St. Louis is a cultural hub with a strong demand for exhibition professionals. Major attractions include the St. Louis Art Museum and various annual festivals and trade shows.
    • Kansas City: Known for its vibrant arts scene, Kansas City hosts a variety of cultural events and exhibitions, providing ample opportunities for exhibition coordination work. The National WWI Museum and Memorial is a key venue that often requires skilled exhibition planners.
    • Columbia: With a growing number of educational and cultural institutions, Columbia is emerging as a location for exhibitions focused on community engagement and education, particularly through organizations like the Museum of Art and Archaeology.
    • Springfield: This city has seen a rise in events and exhibitions related to local history and arts, contributing to the need for coordinated efforts in event management.

By concentrating on these areas, you can better position yourself to seize emerging opportunities in the Exhibition Coordinator field within Missouri. Adapting to the trends and demands of the local market will enhance your prospects as you navigate this career path.

Additional Resources To Help You Become an Exhibition Coordinator in Missouri

  • American Alliance of Museums (AAM)
    Website: aam-us.org
    AAM offers a variety of resources, including professional development, research, and advocacy for museum professionals, which can be beneficial for exhibition coordinators.

  • Art Curators Association
    Website: artcurators.org
    This association provides resources and networking opportunities for exhibition coordinators, curators, and art professionals.

  • National Association of Professional Organizers (NAPO)
    Website: napo.net
    NAPO offers training and resources on organization and event planning, which can be applicable to the skills required for coordinating exhibitions.

  • The Museum Group
    Website: museum-group.com
    This group provides consulting services and offers resources specific to exhibition planning and management.

  • Missouri Arts Council
    Website: missouriartscouncil.org
    The Missouri Arts Council supports arts and culture in the state, offering grants, resources, and networking opportunities for exhibition professionals.

  • Exhibitionary
    Website: exhibitionary.com
    This platform is dedicated to exhibition design and management, providing insights and case studies relevant to exhibition coordinators.

  • National Gallery of Art's Online Courses
    Website: nga.gov
    The National Gallery of Art offers online courses that cover exhibition planning, curation, and related subjects, useful for professional development.

  • Eventbrite Blog
    Website: eventbrite.com/blog
    The Eventbrite Blog provides articles on event planning, trends, and tips, which can enhance your exhibition coordination skills.

  • Professional Convention Management Association (PCMA)
    Website: pcma.org
    PCMA offers resources for event planners, including best practices and trends in managing exhibitions and conferences.

  • LinkedIn Learning
    Website: linkedin.com/learning
    Access numerous courses related to project management, event planning, and marketing to bolster your skills as an exhibition coordinator.

These resources can provide valuable information and networking opportunities to further your career as an exhibition coordinator in Missouri. Be sure to explore each website for specific articles, courses, and tools that can assist you in your professional journey.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Exhibition Coordinator in Missouri

  • What is the role of an Exhibition Coordinator?
    An Exhibition Coordinator is responsible for planning, organizing, and overseeing exhibitions and events. This includes managing logistics, coordinating with vendors, and ensuring that the exhibition runs smoothly.

  • What qualifications do I need to become an Exhibition Coordinator?
    Most positions require at least a bachelor's degree in fields such as event management, hospitality, marketing, or a related area. Experience in project management or event planning is also beneficial.

  • What skills are important for an Exhibition Coordinator?
    Key skills include strong organizational abilities, communication skills, attention to detail, creativity, and leadership. Proficiency in project management software and budgeting is also valuable.

  • Where can I find job opportunities as an Exhibition Coordinator in Missouri?
    Job opportunities can be found through online job boards, company websites, and industry-specific organizations. Networking through professional associations and attending industry events can also help you find job leads.

  • What is the typical salary range for an Exhibition Coordinator in Missouri?
    Salaries can vary based on experience, location, and the specific industry. Generally, the salary range for Exhibition Coordinators in Missouri is between $40,000 and $70,000, with the potential for higher earnings in larger organizations or with more experience.

  • Is there a demand for Exhibition Coordinators in Missouri?
    Yes, there is a steady demand for Exhibition Coordinators, particularly in urban areas with active event and conference sectors. The growth of the tourism and hospitality industries in Missouri contributes to this demand.

  • What are the working hours like for an Exhibition Coordinator?
    Working hours can vary widely depending on the event schedule. Coordinators often work evenings and weekends when events are taking place, but typical office hours may apply during the planning phases.

  • What are some common challenges faced by Exhibition Coordinators?
    Common challenges include managing tight deadlines, coordinating multiple vendors, adhering to budgets, and handling unexpected issues that arise during events. Effective problem-solving and adaptability are essential.

  • Can I specialize in a particular type of exhibition?
    Yes, many Exhibition Coordinators choose to specialize in specific areas such as art exhibitions, trade shows, or corporate events. Specialization can enhance your expertise and marketability.

  • What professional organizations should I consider joining?
    You may want to consider joining organizations such as the International Live Events Association (ILEA), Meeting Professionals International (MPI), and the American Society of Association Executives (ASAE) for opportunities in networking, education, and professional development.