It seems like just yesterday that we arrived in Oklahoma City for the 34th annual Association for Challenge Course Technology Conference. While we knew the launch of Adventure Careers (dot Fun) would be epic, little did we know that the week would be filled with so many special moments!

With approximately 670 attendees, more than 50 exhibitors, and close to 100 workshops this year’s conference was a great blend of networking, continuing education, professional development and FUN!

The conference workshops were filled with educational information and content, and team members JT (John Turman), Bee Lacy, and Micah Henderson presented in a total of 8 different workshops. A number of workshops included committee presentations, many of which, include volunteer work that each of our founding members contribute to regularly, such as Technical Information Research and Education, Vendor Accreditation Design, Vendor Auditor Training, Accreditation and Certifications, Inspector Certification, Qualified Course Professional, and Conference Work Group.

While in the expo hall, we had the opportunity to meet and get to know many new professionals within the industry, as well as catch up with many old friends and colleagues. Our booth “welcome to our backyard” was a collaboration of four businesses, including Hubbard Merrell Engineering, Vertical Solutions Consulting, Ascent Collaborative Services, and our team, Adventure Careers. This year’s expo hall included a number of great changes, including lunch stations with expanded space, new hours, and coffee breaks. One of our highlights included more than 50 attendees willing to download our new app and help us with the beta testing process. Of course, another highlight of the expo hall included the temporary tattoos for those who are most excited about Adventure Careers and the opportunities associated with those connections.

Also, and most importantly, one of our own, Leigh Vernon Carruth was awarded the Critical Link Award. This prestigious award is given to one individual annually, for their continued dedication and commitment to the industry and association. As a leader within the conference work group and service crew, Leigh has played a critical part in supporting the annual conference, cultivating a team of dedicated yellow hat volunteers for the past 18 years. Leigh’s dedication and commitment to the ACCT community over the past 20 years clearly highlights her as a Critical Link, and we are beyond proud to have her on our team.

While we are already looking forward to next year’s conference in Cleveland, Ohio, we sure hope to connect and keep in touch with many of you in 2024!