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Connections
IAAPA Meetup: Navy Pier
In-Person
Event Details
Join us at Navy Pier for an exclusive networking reception at Bar Sol, bringing together industry professionals for an evening of connections and insights. Mingle with fellow leaders, expand your network, and enjoy one of Chicago’s most iconic waterfront destinations.
Ticket Required
Region:
North America
Event Time: 05:00 PM - 08:00 PM
Venue: In-Person
Location: Navy Pier
Address:
600 E. Grand Avenue
Chicago, IL 60611
United States
Session Type: Connections
Premier Sponsor
Event Sponsors
Pricing Details
| PRICING | Member | Nonmember |
|---|---|---|
Registration Fee | 79.00 | 119.00 |
AGENDA
Tuesday | May 06
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Welcome to Navy Pier
Kick off the IAAPA Meetup: Navy Pier with an exciting networking reception at Bar Sol, located at Navy Pier. Mingle with fellow industry professionals in a lively setting designed to spark fresh ideas and foster valuable connections. This is your chance to engage in meaningful conversations, share insights, and grow your professional network while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of one of Chicago’s iconic spots.
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Welcome Remarks from Michael Shelton, ICAE Vice President and Executive Director, IAAPA North America
Start the evening with a welcome from Michael Shelton, ICAE, Vice President and Executive Director of IAAPA North America.
Speakers
Michael Shelton, ICAE Vice President and Executive Director, IAAPA North America
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Hear from Navy Pier Leaders
Join Seth Kagy, General Manager of Navy Pier, as he discusses how his team manages guest experiences during high-traffic days, trains seasonal staff, and navigates evolving operational challenges, including lessons learned in the post-COVID environment. Then, Dan O’Shea, Executive Director of Safety and Security, will provide insights into how Navy Pier prepares for large-scale events like summer fireworks and New Year’s Eve, covering evacuation planning, threat response drills, crowd flow strategies, and the safety protocols that ensure millions of guests are kept safe year-round.
Speakers
Seth Kagy General Manager, Navy Pier
Dan O'Shea Executive Director of Safety and Security, Navy Pier
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Enjoy Navy Pier
Explore the iconic Navy Pier at your own pace, with plenty of time to soak in the sights, sounds, and energy of one of Chicago’s top attractions. As a special bonus, don’t miss the thrilling Flyover Experience—Believe Chicago. Soar over the city’s skyline and iconic landmarks, all while enjoying a multi-sensory experience with motion seats, scents, mists, and music!
See What Our Members Are Saying
Discover how IAAPA membership has positively impacted businesses across the attractions industry
From the M&S side I love the app and its come so far in recent years. No matter if you are on the M&S side or park side be sure down download and spend some time in the app before the show. There are people and companies in the building next week at IAAPA Expo who you want to meet with but don’t even know they are attending - the app is your answer!
Jamie Flaherty, ICAEVP, Business Development and Marketing | Netserv Applications
We’ve really enjoyed working with the Connect+ platform over the past few shows. It’s been a game-changer in helping us connect with attendees more efficiently and keep track of meaningful conversations throughout the event. The interface is intuitive, and the personal training session helped our team feel confident using all the features right away.
Brett BeadleDigital Marketing Specialist | Gateway Ticketing Systems, Inc.
Connect+ is a great tool that I can use to prepare and participate in IAAPA events. Being able to see the attendee list allows me to strategize what conversations and meetings I want to have ahead of time, and I can connect with those people directly in the app. It also keeps me organized during an event. Each day will have a full schedule, and if I turn on push notifications, it will let me know what event is coming up and where it is so I can stay on track.
Megan GannonBusiness Development Manager | Themed Entertainment
IAAPA Expo is always a whirlwind, but IAAPA Connect+ kept me organized and focused. Before the show, I was able to map out my entire experience, from scheduling meetings to bookmarking EDUSessions and booths I wanted to visit on the show floor. During the event, I just pulled out my phone and the app guided me through my schedule, ensuring I didn't miss a thing. It was like having a personal assistant dedicated to making my expo experience a success. I felt more organized, more connected, and more confident than ever before. I can't imagine attending another IAAPA Expo without it!
Cassidy NewmanManaging Director | Carousel Communications
Being part of IAAPA has inspired innovation and excellence. The membership provides tools and strategies that deliver real results for our team.
Elevating Standards Across the Board
Joining IAAPA has opened doors to invaluable connections and industry insights. We've seen measurable improvements in both operations and guest satisfaction.
A Game-Changer for Our Growth!
IAAPA’s resources and networking opportunities have helped us stay ahead in a competitive market. It's been a vital part of our success story.
The Support We Needed to Succeed
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