Most people don’t plan to become association leaders. They grow into the role over time.
The challenge is that the role has changed—faster, more digital, and more tied to member expectations. But the way leaders are developed hasn’t always evolved at the same pace.
This conversation looks at how association leaders are shaped today—and what needs to change.
Joining Us for the Conversation
Elizabeth Twitchell is Director of Credentialing for the Certified Association Executive (CAE) program at ASAE.
With more than two decades working inside associations—and now leading the CAE program—she brings a perspective from the center of how leadership in this space is defined, developed, and evaluated.
What You’ll Learn
- Why most association leaders don’t follow a traditional path—and what that means for development
- What the CAE actually signals to boards, members, and the field
- How expectations on leaders have changed—and where development is lagging
- What it takes to keep certification and education programs relevant over time
- How to think about credentials and professional development at different stages of your career
If you’re thinking about leadership—whether for yourself or your team—this conversation will help you evaluate whether your current path is actually preparing you for the role.
