IAAPA’S GLOBAL PARTNERSHIP WITH THE IMMERSIVE DESIGN ACADEMY (IDA) will expand career pathways for students and young professionals entering the attractions industry.
Designed to bridge the gap between education and employment, IDA provides an 11-month immersive training program that equips participants with real-world skills and industry connections.
Through this partnership, the IAAPA Foundation has funded experiential scholarships for IDA participants.
“By partnering with the Immersive Design Academy, the IAAPA Foundation aids in expanding access to high-quality educational experiences that prepare students and emerging professionals for successful careers in the attractions industry,” says Meghan Roth, program manager, IAAPA Foundation. “We are proud to support programs that inspire creativity, foster professional growth, and strengthen the future workforce of our industry.”
Representatives and students from the virtual training program participated at IAAPA Expo Asia in Hong Kong in June, and were again on hand at IAAPA Expo Europe in London this Sept. to showcase collaborative studio work and connect with global attractions professionals.
For 2026 student Brett Ellison, IDA helped turn a lifelong passion into a tangible career opportunity.
“It’s been a dream since I was a kid to design theme park experiences. I had zero contacts, zero experience, and no idea where to begin. Immersive Design Academy has given me years’ worth of insight from experienced professionals and mentors, while IAAPA has opened doors by connecting me with industry contacts I never would have met otherwise.nBoth have been incredibly supportive in ways you don’t find in other industries.”
The culmination of the program will be on display at IAAPA Expo 2026 when IDA students showcase their final projects at the Young Professionals Hub, a dedicated space for student and young professional programming throughout Expo week. On Thursday, Nov. 19, from noon - 3 p.m., attendees can experience the Student Showcase and get a firsthand look at the industry’s emerging talent, innovative ideas, and future workforce.
For Laura Marakowits, program director of the Immersive Design Academy, the showcase represents the culmination of months of collaborative learning and mentorship.
“By providing an opportunity to learn through guided and collaborative practice with regular assessment—and in an international environment—we truly believe that we are enabling the most qualified and confident new generation of candidates. Our partnership with IAAPA further facilitates connection for the membership with this next generation of talent.”
To learn more about IDA visit immersivedesignacademy.org.
