2026 General Session & Breakout Descriptions

Hospitality thrives when every team member has the opportunity to contribute and succeed. Join a panel of hotel industry leaders and inclusion advocates as they discuss practical strategies for creating workplaces that support employees with disabilities and neurodivergent team members. Panelists will share real-world experiences, innovative hiring and onboarding practices, workplace accommodations, leadership approaches, and the business benefits of fostering an inclusive culture. Attendees will leave with actionable ideas for building environments where all employees can thrive while strengthening recruitment, retention, engagement, and guest service.

Running an independent hotel means wearing countless hats—often with little separation between business and personal life. This candid and practical session explores how independent hoteliers can create healthier boundaries, manage competing priorities, and build systems that allow the business to thrive without sacrificing personal well-being. Attendees will walk away with realistic strategies for reducing burnout, delegating effectively, protecting time away from the property, and creating a sustainable approach to both work and life.

Explore how artificial intelligence is reshaping the hotel booking journey from the first online search to the moment a guest confirms their stay. This session will highlight strategies for using AI to enhance digital visibility, optimize search and booking experiences, and drive direct bookings. Attendees will learn practical ways to leverage AI tools responsibly, improve their property’s online presence, and understand the critical role of digital PR in connecting with today’s traveler.

Influencers are shaping where travelers discover, dream about, and ultimately book their next stay. This session will explore how hotels can strategically enter the influencer conversation, build authentic partnerships, and turn social storytelling into meaningful brand awareness and bookings. Attendees will learn how to identify the right creators, create mutually valuable collaborations, and make influencer marketing work for their property.

Immigration questions can create uncertainty for associates and leaders alike. This session will equip our hotelier's with practical guidance on how to respond with clarity, confidence, and professionalism. Learn strategies for navigating sensitive conversations, supporting your team, and staying aligned with company policies while maintaining a respectful and supportive workplace.

In hospitality, your people are your greatest asset—and hiring the right people can make all the difference. This session will explore practical strategies for attracting, selecting, and retaining employees who have the skills, mindset, and service attitude needed to thrive in a hospitality environment. From crafting effective job descriptions and improving the interview process to identifying cultural fit and reducing turnover, attendees will gain actionable ideas for building a stronger, more engaged team from the start.