Author: Dana Hall
Behind every successful event, attraction, fair, rental company, and operation in our industry, there are women who are helping to make it happen. They are solving problems before sunrise, leading teams through long weekends, balancing business and family, building relationships with customers, and helping drive the industry forward every single day. Many of those stories, experiences, and contributions happen quietly behind the scenes. The IOA PWER Group exists to change that, and to create a place where women in the industry can connect and encourage one another.
As we move through May, the IOA PWER Group is reminded of the power of connection, shared experiences, and the impact we can create when we intentionally come together as women in the outdoor amusement and events industry. In an industry built on long hours, dedication, resilience, and passion, the relationships we build with one another matter. They encourage us, strengthen us, and remind us that we are not navigating this journey alone.
The IOA PWER Group was created to provide a place for women within our industry to connect, collaborate, encourage, and grow together. PWER stands for Professional Women Event Rentals, and our mission is to create opportunities for networking, mentorship, leadership development, and support among women across all areas of the industry. Whether you are an owner, manager, operator, office professional, event coordinator, manufacturer, supplier, or just beginning your career, PWER exists to help foster meaningful relationships and create a stronger sense of community.
In March, during the IOA Convention in Lebanon, we hosted our very first PWER Breakfast. What began as a simple gathering quickly became something much more meaningful. The room was filled with conversation, laughter, encouragement, and honest discussions about the unique experiences women face in this industry. Women from different backgrounds, businesses, and generations came together with a common understanding and a shared desire to support one another.
The success of that breakfast was not measured simply by attendance, but by the connections that were made and the conversations that continued long after the event ended. It became clear that there is a real need and desire for spaces where women in our industry can come together, share experiences, exchange ideas, and build one another up. The overwhelming positivity and support we experienced that morning confirmed that PWER is filling an important role within the IOA community.
One of the most inspiring parts of the breakfast was seeing women openly encourage one another. In an industry that can often feel demanding and fast-paced, taking the time to connect personally and professionally created an atmosphere that was both uplifting and empowering. Many attendees shared stories of balancing business ownership, event operations, staffing challenges, travel schedules, and family responsibilities while continuing to lead with passion and determination. Those shared experiences reminded us all that even though our paths may look different, we often face many of the same challenges.
The energy from that morning made one thing very clear: this is only the beginning. The momentum that started in Lebanon is something we are committed to continuing and growing. PWER is not intended to be a one-time event or simply a networking group. It is about building lasting relationships, creating mentorship opportunities, supporting future leaders, and helping women feel connected within the industry. When one woman succeeds, learns, or grows, it creates opportunities and inspiration for others as well.
May also brings Mother’s Day, a meaningful reminder to recognize the incredible women who lead not only within their businesses, but within their families and communities. So many women in this industry wear multiple hats every single day. They are business owners, managers, operators, mentors, caregivers, wives, mothers, daughters, and friends. They manage demanding schedules, long event weekends, staffing issues, customer service challenges, and operational responsibilities, while still showing up at home with the same love, patience, and dedication.
To the mothers in our industry, thank you! Thank you for the sacrifices you make, the example you set, and the strength you demonstrate every day. You are building businesses, shaping teams, supporting your families, and helping move this industry forward in ways that matter deeply. Your impact reaches far beyond what is often seen on the surface.
As we look ahead, we are excited and encouraged by what is possible for the future of PWER. The conversations are beginning, the relationships are forming, and the foundation is being built for something meaningful and lasting within the IOA community. We want PWER to continue growing into a space where women feel welcomed, encouraged, supported, and inspired to step into leadership and connection.
We also want to encourage more women within the industry to become involved. Whether you attend an event, participate in conversations, share your experiences, or simply introduce yourself to someone new, your presence matters. Every connection helps strengthen this community and reminds others that they belong here, too. We are excited for what lies ahead and look forward to continuing to grow these relationships throughout the year and beyond!
— IOA PWER Group
