Our Mission
The IAFE Young Professionals are dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the success of others, creating a community, and inspiring change both within and outside of the fair industry.
Join the Young Professionals!
The Steering Committee is for individuals 40 years old or younger who want to network and learn from industry peers. This group enjoys watching others succeed and helps each other grow. Anyone in this age group is eligible to participate in the organized events.
The Committee organizes events and sessions at conventions that are open to anyone. Members serve a two-year term. To apply, complete the application and return it to the IAFE office. The application period is in the spring of each year. After receiving applications, current Steering Committee members vote on the applicants to determine who will serve the next two years.
Young Professionals Events
Many events occur virtually throughout the year and are open to all IAFE members. Other events are only open to those 40 years old and under. To see a full schedule of YP Events, click the button below.
YP Mentor Program
Connect with a mentor in the fair industry. These connections are confidential and are a 12-month commitment. Request a mentor today!
Rising Star Award
This award, sponsored by Wade Shows, Inc., recognizes a young person who demonstrates leadership in the IAFE. The nomination deadline is August 31.
Road To Convention Grant
This $500 grant for travel and registration expenses at the 2025 IAFE Convention and Trade Show is proudly funded by Noise New Media.
Merchandise
Just in time for Denver, our latest collection features fresh colors, a full range of sizes, and bold branding — including 2025’s Convention logo. This gear is the perfect way to show your IAFE pride all year round!
**Shipping times vary by location, and items are not guaranteed to arrive before the Convention.
The Young Professionals Steering Committee
Chair
Jamie Jones
Grady County Fair, OK
Vice Chair
Karli Schulz, IFMG
Nebraska State Fair
Past Chair
Rachel Lisk
Lewis County Ag Society, NY
Zone 1
Mackenzie Coburn, IFMG
Eastern States Exposition (The Big E)
Zone 2
Karen Nicklas, IFMG
The Great Frederick Fair, MD
Zone 3
Alissa Belna-Muhlenkamp, IFMG
Ohio State Fair
Zone 4
Michaela Liebl
Anoka County Fair, MN
Zone 5
Abby Jaeger
Great Jones County Fair, IA
Zone 6
Morgan Chappell, IFMG
Oklahoma State Fair
Zone 7
Darcie Tempel, IFMG
MontanaFair
Zone 8
Justin Aquino
San Mateo County Fair, CA
Associate
Amy Meyer
Etix
Associate
Nick Pickering
Pickering Events
Board Liaison
Kady Porterfield, IFMG, CFE
Kittitas County Fair, WA
Staff Liaison
Amy Listle, IFMG, CFE
IAFE