IAAPA Names Michael Shelton Chief Operating Officer and Executive Vice President

IAAPA, the global association for the attractions industry, is pleased to announce the promotion of Michael Shelton to the role of Chief Operating Officer and Executive Vice President, effective June 30, 2025.

This leadership transition reflects IAAPA’s ongoing commitment to developing its people and evolving its structure to meet the needs of a dynamic, global industry. In his new role, Shelton will continue to report to Jakob Wahl, IAAPA President and CEO, and will oversee Regional Vice Presidents, the Safety & Security leadership, and Global Professional Development.

Shelton brings more than 25 years of experience in the attractions and recreation industry. Since joining IAAPA in 2018, he has held increasingly senior positions, most recently serving as Vice President and Executive Director of IAAPA North America. In that role, he led IAAPA’s largest region, supporting over 4,500 member organizations and overseeing IAAPA Expo—one of the largest trade shows in the United States—drawing more than 40,000 attendees annually.

Earlier in his IAAPA tenure, Shelton served as Director of Education, Safety, and Membership, where he advanced global safety initiatives, led strategic education efforts, and drove record-breaking membership growth.

Prior to joining IAAPA, Shelton held multiple leadership roles at Hyland Hills Parks and Recreation District in Colorado, including Managing Director, General Manager of Water World, and Director of Water Park Operations. His responsibilities included strategic and operational oversight of Water World—one of the largest waterparks in the U.S.—the Ice Centre at the Promenade, and Adventure Golf and Raceway. He also previously served as Food and Beverage Director, managing F&B operations across multiple venues.

Shelton holds a Bachelor of Science in Business from the University of Northern Colorado and is an IAAPA Certified Attractions Executive, Certified Aquatic Facility Operator, and Certified Food Safety Instructor. He is actively engaged in several industry organizations and advisory boards, including ASTM F24, the Rosen College Theme Park Advisory Board, and the Orange County Convention Center Executive Client Advisory Committee.

IAAPA will begin the search for Shelton’s successor as Vice President and Executive Director, IAAPA North America, in the coming days.