Momentum is building as IAAPA, the global association for the attractions industry, prepares for its first summit of the year. IAAPA FEC Summit -- the attraction industry’s annual event where family entertainment center (FEC) operators come to connect, network, share best practices, and explore the latest trends – this year in San Antonio, Texas, from Jan. 21-23.
IAAPA FEC Summit attendees will meet fellow IAAPA members and FEC operators during the packed, three-day agenda. There will also be multiple networking receptions and opportunities to gain a plethora of insight from two incredibly engaging keynote speakers.
The Summit opens with a welcome reception, sponsored by McGowan Allied Specialty Insurance, on Sunday evening and includes the annual costume contest – this year embracing the true Texan spirit. Attendees are encouraged to showcase their style by donning their finest boots and belts, channeling their inner cowboy or cowgirl, with prizes awarded to those with the most creative costumes.
Education sessions and keynotes for Monday and Tuesday include Salem Thyne, co-author of the book Nobody Cares and President of Middle Initial LLC, who will lead a discussion on taking accountability over your life and your business during his keynote address. Thyne has over 26 years of experience in corporate management and operations in both late-stage corporations as well as early-stage start-ups.
Vince Poscente, New York Times bestselling author, corporate presenter, and Hall of Fame speaker will also present at IAAPA FEC Summit. Poscente has helped businesses with massive breakthroughs and his “Do what the competition is not willing to do,” philosophy towards obstacles and resilience has been implemented by several Fortune 500 companies around the world.
Additional panelists include Dan Fonseca and Morris Pierce representing Santikos Entertainment, along with Lore Hurtado and Liliana Zamfirescu from Andretti Indoor Karting & Games. They will share insights on their establishments and what it takes to build and maintain a leadership culture within facilities.
A new Brass Rings panel at IAAPA FEC Summit will highlight four past winners of the FEC of the Year Award on Monday, Jan. 22, from 11 a.m. - 12 p.m. Craig Buster, Jeremy Hoyum, Todd Maunsell and Barry Zelickson will all speak on what sets them apart from the competition and how other FEC owners can accomplish this.
The education continues off-site with guided facility tours to cutting-edge entertainment facilities. Participants will have the opportunity to explore Santikos Entertainment Cibolo, a state-of-the-art cinema center, followed by a visit to AR's Entertainment Hub and Andretti Indoor Karting & Games. On the final day of the summit, attendees will gain exclusive behind-the-scenes access to The Amazing Mirror Maze.
“Every year, we set out to provide the best content for FEC operators at our annual Summit and this year is no different,” said Michael Shelton, vice president and executive director, IAAPA North America. Our team has organized tours to a variety of FEC locations and educational sessions led by several innovative speakers. The best suppliers in the industry will also be on site to offer the latest products and services that will help you drive your business forward.”
Registration for IAAPA FEC Summit 2024 is open for members and nonmembers. Hotel and travel information can be found here.
