M&IW Difference Makers: Event Technology’s Anca Platon Trifan
Anca Platon Trifan, CMP, WMEP, joined M&IW in October as our Event Technology team’s new Sr. Manager of Strategic Partnerships. With over 20 years of experience in event production and technology, she’s quickly made her mark and is ready to share her expertise to benefit our employees and customers alike.
Get to know Anca in this exclusive interview and experience the difference M&IW’s event technology strategies and solutions can make for your events.
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Q&A with Event Technology’s Anca Platon Trifan
Welcome to M&IW! Tell us about your previous experience in the events industry.
Prior to this role, I founded Tree-Fan Events, a woman-owned agency specializing in AV, AI, and strategic event solutions. I’m also the host of the Events Demystified podcast and an advocate for wellness in the industry through the #FIT4EVENTS framework. I’m excited to bring my expertise to M&IW and look forward to collaborating with my new team and delivering impactful experiences together!
How did you get started in event technology? What areas do you specialize in?
My journey into event technology started with my passion for audio and visual storytelling, which began in high school and college while working in radio. That passion inspired me to move to the US with just $150 in my pocket after graduating with a degree in computer science. Once here, I dedicated my time to studying sound engineering, lighting design, and video production, gaining hands-on experience in AV production before transitioning into leadership roles in event management, strategy, and technology.
For the past two years, I’ve further specialized in AI technology and automation, combining it with my expertise in AV and event technology to create innovative solutions for events and businesses. These areas—AV production, event technology, and AI—remain my core specializations today, and I’m passionate about using them to drive efficiency, creativity, and impactful experiences.
You’re incredibly active in the events industry. Can you share some of your experiences and accolades?
I recently presented at IMEX America 2024 on two separate topics, and I’ve also spoken at other industry-leading events like MPI, SXSW, Connect Meetings, Smart Meetings, Event Tech Live, and more. My voice also extends beyond the stage with thought leadership shared via my podcast, LinkedIn, industry publications and podcasts, live workshops, and livestreams.
I’m dedicated to driving education, innovation, and empowerment within the event technology and AV industries. My passion for creating life-changing and inclusive event experiences while inspiring others to push their boundaries has earned me accolades like the 2024 Best of the Stage: Smart Speaker Award, the 2023 Smart Woman in Meetings and Catalyst Quantum Leap Award, and BizBash+Connect Meetings’ “40 Under 40” in 2022.
You recently co-authored a blog post with M&IW’s Director of Event Technology, Chip Begley, sharing event technology trends to watch for in 2025. Which trend are you most excited about and why?
The trend I’m most excited about is the integration of AI as a tool, not a replacement. We talk about this a lot in our blog post. AI has immense potential to streamline processes, personalize experiences, and enhance accessibility, but I believe the real magic lies in balancing its capabilities with the human touch. For me, it’s about education before we go heavy on regulation—ensuring that our teams as well as our clients understand how to use AI responsibly and effectively, with a clear focus on enhancing, not replacing, the connections that make meetings and events truly impactful.
I’m passionate about creating experiences that amplify human interaction while leveraging technology to simplify the behind-the-scenes complexities. By positioning AI as a supportive tool, we can focus on what really matters: fostering genuine connections, creating memorable moments, and designing events that inspire growth and collaboration. It’s this balance between innovation and authenticity that excites me the most as we look toward 2025.
What is the most underutilized event technology solution?
The most underutilized event technology solution varies depending on the industry segment and organizational needs. For some, it might be the basic use of AI to enhance productivity, while for others it might be AI-powered data analysis tools that help transform attendee behavior into actionable insights, often overlooked due to a lack of training or perceived complexity. For others, it might be AI matchmaking platforms that can elevate networking opportunities but aren’t fully utilized because teams stick to more traditional methods. The key is identifying the tools that align with the organizational and event goals and committing to learning and integrating them into workflows. Often, it’s not about finding the newest tool—it’s about fully leveraging the ones you already have.
What role does technology play in other industry trends such as sustainability and wellness?
What’s great about technology is that it offers solutions that enhance not just efficiency but also attendee well-being. Biometrics and AI-powered apps connected to smartwatches are transforming how events support attendees. These tools can monitor stress levels, sleep patterns, and signs of overwhelm in real-time, offering tailored mental, emotional, and physical support. For instance, an app might detect elevated stress through biometrics and recommend a mindfulness break, a stretching activity, or a moment of guided breathing during an event with a packed agenda.
In sustainability, digital tools such as mobile apps, QR codes, and digital signage reduce the need for printed materials, while AI-powered tools optimize energy use and waste management. Blockchain-enabled carbon tracking at venues add a new layer of transparency and accountability, helping events achieve measurable sustainability goals. Learn more about M&IW’s sustainability tools and solutions.
What advice would you give to event technologists or other event professionals who are just getting started in their careers?
My advice for technologists is to stay curious and commit to lifelong learning. Technology evolves quickly, and keeping up with trends requires a willingness to adapt and explore new tools and methods. Start small. Focus on mastering the basics—whether it’s AV production, event technology and AI, new platforms, or data analytics tools—and build a strong foundation before diving into more advanced areas like AI or automation.
Developing soft skills like communication, problem-solving, and empathy is just as important as technical expertise. These human qualities set you apart and help you connect with customers, attendees, and colleagues. Also, don’t be afraid to ask questions, seek mentors, and learn from others in the industry. Networking and sharing knowledge can open doors and help you grow.
Finally, remember that technology is but a tool to support creativity and connection. Always focus on how it enhances the human experience and use it to solve real-world challenges, not just for the sake of innovation. Your adaptability, curiosity, and ability to combine technology with empathy will set you up for a successful and impactful career.
Learn More About M&IW’s Event Technology Services
Experience the difference M&IW’s event technology solutions can make for your meetings, events, and incentives. Leveraging our best-in-class technology partner ecosystem, we blend form and function for innovative event experiences. Click the button below or contact us to learn more. Already an M&IW customer? Contact your Customer Success Manager.