In this episode of The Association Insights Podcast, host Colleen Gallagher continues the Member Value Reimagined series with a conversation that’s both timely and inspiring. Her guest, MJ Shoer, Chief Community Officer at the Global Technology Industry Association (GTIA), shares how his organization—formerly the CompTIA Community—is redefining member engagement and impact across the global IT channel.
🎧 From steering a major rebrand and organizational split to expanding GTIA’s global footprint and strengthening cybersecurity readiness, MJ offers an insider’s look at what it means to deliver real, evolving member value in a rapidly changing industry.
Key Highlights
From CompTIA to GTIA: A Bold Transition Built on Trust
MJ walks through how the 42-year-old association successfully separated from CompTIA’s certification business in record time—building new systems, a new brand, and a new future for members in just 65 days.
A Member’s Perspective at the Helm
Having started as a GTIA member, board chair, and now Chief Community Officer, MJ brings a rare 360-degree view of the member experience—and shares how that empathy drives everything from programming to communication.
Global Growth with Purpose
With communities now spanning North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific, GTIA is leaning into its “G” for global. MJ shares how the association connects members from Birmingham to Brisbane, exchanging best practices and insights across borders to help businesses thrive.
Events That Drive Connection and Impact
From flagship conferences to regional meetups, GTIA’s events have become engines for connection and collaboration. MJ explains how their level playing field approach—where every exhibitor has equal footing—creates authentic engagement across the ecosystem.
Cybersecurity as Core Member Value
GTIA’s cybersecurity programming, including the ISAO and Cybersecurity Trustmark, is helping members protect their businesses while elevating industry standards. MJ discusses how the organization fosters a culture of shared learning, collaboration, and resilience in an era of accelerating threats.
Listening, Storytelling, and Scaling Value
MJ underscores the importance of listening to members, telling their stories, and communicating value clearly and confidently—so more people understand the impact of association membership and the power of community.
🎧 Tune in for a candid, forward-looking conversation about how GTIA is redefining what membership means in the global technology space—and how associations everywhere can build trust, relevance, and impact for the future.
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Coming Soon: Our Member Value Reimagined series continues with more association leaders rethinking benefits, access, and engagement in bold new ways. Stay tuned for fresh ideas that challenge assumptions—and deliver results.