The Alberta Intercollegiate Sales & Marketing Competition (AISMC) made history last weekend, March 22-23, by hosting its first-ever case competition. My teammate and I represented Concordia University of Edmonton (CUE) and were honored to be among the finalists, competing for a grand prize of $5,000. This experience was more than just a competition; it was an opportunity for growth, networking, and putting our skills to the test.

Our team, Thunder Marketing, participated in the Marketing segment of the competition, which aligned with our backgrounds and specialties. As the only students from Edmonton to compete in the competition, we took great pride in representing both our university and our city in this competitive stage.

The event itself was intense and required us to think critically, apply our knowledge, and showcase our strategic marketing abilities. Although we did not secure first place, we walked away with invaluable insights into real-world marketing challenges and a deeper understanding of what it takes to develop effective strategies under pressure as we had less than a week to prepare while also managing other commitments, assignments, and even midterms.

One of the highlights of the event was the networking mixer held the evening before the main presentations. This pre-competition gathering provided us with a chance to meet and engage with students, professors, and industry recruiters from various post-secondary institutions across Alberta. It was an eye-opening experience that not only introduced us to different perspectives but also expanded our professional network within the marketing and sales industry.

Throughout the competition, we had the opportunity to learn from industry experts and observe the innovative approaches of other teams. Seeing how different schools tackled the same case

gave us a broader perspective on marketing strategies and problem-solving techniques. It reinforced the importance of adaptability, teamwork, and clear communication when presenting ideas in a high-stakes environment.

The case we tackled was about Big Beaver Brewing, a small, community-focused company, located in Okotoks, Alberta. Standing alongside competitors from larger institutions as students of a smaller university was a testament to the quality of education and training we receive at Concordia. It was a proud moment to showcase our skills and represent CUE at a high-level competition.

Although Thunder Marketing did not take home the grand prize, the lessons we gained, the connections we made, and the experience itself were far more valuable than any monetary reward. Competitions like these not only test our academic knowledge but also push us to develop crucial professional skills such as critical thinking, public speaking, and networking. The AISMC was an unforgettable journey, and we look forward to seeing how it grows in the coming years. For any student interested in marketing, sales, or business strategy, this competition is an incredible opportunity to learn, connect, and push the boundaries of what we can achieve.