SET 2123: Steps to Starting My Career (Cannon)

Trade & Professional Associations

Trade and professional associations support individuals and organizations in different areas. They keep track of industry trends, may publish white papers, reports and conference proceedings, gather statistics, conduct salary surveys, organize conferences and trade shows, provide continuing education and professional developments, maintain standards, and more.

Many associations have local chapters and offer reduced students' rates for membership. it is a great way to network, find mentors, and make career connections.

To find a trade associations, you can start with searching the web, e.g. events management association.

The most comprehensive source for locating trade associations is the Encyclopedia of Associations available in the Gale Directory Library database.

Gale Directory Library (GDL) This link opens in a new window
Provides access to the Encyclopedia of Associations for national, international and local associations and organizations. Search by keyword, for example event or events.

What Can I Do with My Major?
A resource from UTSA CareerEdge. Each major has a section for professional and trade associations.

Check Unions and Associations sections in career descriptions in these e-books: