The IAAPA FEC Summit 2026 was the kind of event that reminds you why this industry is so amazing. Between the gorgeous Arizona weather, thoughtful conversations, and time spent with operators from across the FEC community, it was an energizing way to kick off the year.
This event is especially close to my heart. Before joining ROLLER, I had the opportunity to work on the FEC Summit during my time at IAAPA, so seeing it come together (and experiencing it from a new perspective) was incredibly meaningful. It was also my first FEC Summit as a member of the IAAPA FEC Committee, which made the week even more special.
Conversations that matter
Held at The Wigwam in Glendale, the FEC Summit 2026 gave operators the chance to step away from the day-to-day and focus on the bigger picture. And it didn’t take long to see just how valuable that space can be.
Throughout the Summit, conversations naturally circled back to a few shared priorities: creating smoother guest journeys, simplifying daily operations, using data in practical ways, and finding smart opportunities to reduce operating costs while increasing profitability.
What made these discussions especially impactful was how open and collaborative they were. Operators were actively sharing what’s working, what’s not, and how they’re thinking about the year ahead. Whether it was during sessions, between meetings, or while enjoying the sunshine outdoors, idea-sharing was constant and refreshingly candid.
Seeing great facilities in action
One of the highlights of the FEC Summit was the opportunity to visit and learn from other incredible facilities during EDUTours.
We kicked things off at ROLLER customer KTR, where attendees toured the venue and heard directly from the CEO, founder, and their incredible team. It was a firsthand look at how thoughtful operations and strong leadership come together. And we even got the chance to climb a bit ourselves!
Next up was FatCats, where the experience was equally impressive (and comfortable). The theater seats were almost too cozy to get out of, and the snacks were very appreciated—a small detail that definitely didn’t go unnoticed.
We wrapped up the tours at the stunning Pecan Lake, a venue with so much to see and do that it’s hard to know where to look first. And if your eyes were still adjusting after the super bright jumbo screen (with our logo front and center) we hope they’ve recovered by now.
These visits brought FEC Summit conversations to life, giving operators real-world inspiration and ideas they could immediately apply back at their own venues.
A community-driven start to the year
What continues to set the IAAPA FEC Summit apart is its focus on community. This event isn’t just about trends or tactics, it’s about bringing people together who genuinely care about their businesses, their teams, and the guest experiences they create every day.
And of course, some of the best moments happened outside the agenda. One standout evening included a s’mores party under the stars. It was proof that great conversations (and great ideas) tend to happen when people are relaxed, connected, and maybe holding a marshmallow on a stick.
Starting the year surrounded by peers who are asking the same questions, facing similar challenges, and willing to share ideas makes a real difference. Operators left the Summit feeling energized, supported, and better equipped for what’s ahead.
Looking ahead
As 2026 gets underway, the IAAPA FEC Summit set the tone for a year focused on smarter operations, thoughtful growth, and continued collaboration across the FEC industry.
Events like this are a reminder of why it’s worth investing the time to come together, share ideas, and learn from one another. I’m already looking forward to carrying this energy into the year ahead, and I can’t wait to see everyone again next year in Atlanta, GA.
If you’d like to keep the momentum going:
See you next year!
