THERE ARE MOMENTS IN YOUR CAREER when you get the opportunity to see something you love from an entirely new perspective. For me, stepping into my new role as vice president and executive director of IAAPA North America is one of those moments. I can think of no better way to celebrate this chapter than by welcoming our global industry to Orlando for IAAPA Expo 2026.
I am so excited for this year’s event. It will be our largest, most immersive Expo ever, brimming with new ways for our members to connect, learn, and experience the very best our industry has to offer. I’m especially looking forward to seeing the new activations coming to the show floor. These interactive spaces will enhance the trade show floor experience with new opportunities to engage, discover, and be inspired.
This year, Expo attendees will benefit from the largest education program in its history with more than 170 EDUSessions. An incredible reflection of the knowledge, creativity, and expertise that exists within our global attraction community, this is a benefit I hope you will take full advantage of. Whether you are looking for new ideas, practical solutions, leadership insights, or a fresh perspective on the future of our industry, there will be something for you.
I’m also eager to see our new EDUTours, including opportunities to get behind the scenes at Walt Disney World, Bonnet Springs Park, and Kia Center. These experiences offer something uniquely valuable—the chance to step outside and learn directly from the people and places creating memorable guest experiences every day.
Hosting IAAPA Expo feels especially meaningful to me because Orlando has served as my home for more than 20 years. I’ve built a career here, made lifelong friends, and experienced firsthand what makes this destination so special. I can’t wait to welcome my global friends to my hometown and share the magic that makes Orlando one of the world’s great destinations for entertainment, attractions, and hospitality.
What makes this new role particularly exciting is the opportunity to be on the other side of the industry. From my first theme park job in college as a costume character, I’ve built a career immersed in attractions, learning what it takes to create experiences that bring people together, and keep them coming back. Now, I have the privilege of taking that knowledge and using it to shape our offerings to bring more value to our IAAPA members and the industry at large. That is what excites me most about this new chapter—serving an industry I love while supporting our members in their success.
IAAPA Expo 2026 will be an incredible gathering of our global community. I’m ready to learn, connect, celebrate, and—most importantly—welcome all of you to Orlando. I can’t wait to see you at IAAPA Expo 2026 and to show you a little of what makes my home so magical.
