MPI MN Profiles Planner Regina Fisher

MPI MN profiles Planner Regina Fisher, Strategic Meeting Planning Specialist, Medtronic

Why did you join MPI? 

I joined MPI because of their commitment to providing educational and networking opportunities for meeting professionals worldwide. In this industry, it is easy to feel like a small fish in a big pond, so connecting with other meeting professionals and having opportunities to learn and grow together makes such a difference!

How long have you been in the meetings/hospitality industry? 

I have been in the meetings and hospitality industry since 1997, working in a variety of positions and companies. However, my meeting planning focus intensified three years ago when I took a dedicated meeting planning role within my company and begin planning not only domestic meetings and events but international, as well.

How did you decide to get involved in this business?  What influenced you?

I have always been the one to plan events in my family and circle of friends. From a young age, I have enjoyed making things special and creating experiences for those around me. As I got older, I combined that ability with other skills such as customer service, ability to perform under pressure, and attention to detail. With those, the world of meeting planning seemed like the perfect fit for me! I love the variety of events I get to plan and the ability to see multiple projects through from start to finish over the course of the year.

What’s the most valuable advice you’ve received about working with meetings?

Many years ago, a mentor told me to always put yourself in your guest’s shoes, trying to imagine their experience from start to finish. That advice can apply to all areas of work and personal life, but especially to the meetings industry. It helps you think of the little things that may get missed and gain a better understanding of your attendees’ expectations.

What is one piece of advice about meeting planning you would share? 

As meeting planners, we often put in long hours, working diligently behind the scenes to execute our events. It has taken me a while to realize that taking time for myself and my family are important components to being successful in this industry. Without that balance between work and family life, it is easy to get burned out and lose the excitement and love of what we do.

What is one thing about this industry that you love?

I love the opportunities the industry provides to travel the world, meet new people, and most importantly, provide exceptional experiences for our meeting and event attendees.

What is one thing about the industry would you like to see changed? 

This past pandemic year has shown us the need to “think outside the box” more than ever. We have had to move very quickly to rethink and reimagine our events, moving most of them to virtual forums. Going forward, we will need to continue this new way of thinking and I would love to see continued efforts utilizing technology, especially around green meeting solutions.

What are some of your favorite pastime activities?

In my free time I enjoy reading, gardening, skiing, spending time with family, and taking canoe trips in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area.