Orlando, FL, USA – Skyline Attractions is thrilled to announce the successful return of its SKYnext event over the weekend. SKYnext, a professional networking event for the next generation of themed entertainment industry leaders, was held on Friday, September 22 and Saturday, September 23 in Orlando, Florida at the IAAPA World Headquarters. The event was hosted by Skyline Attractions and drew college-aged attendees from across the nation and beyond, eager to dive into the exciting world of themed entertainment.
SKYnext offered attendees a unique opportunity to hear from an array of industry professionals, participate in an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour, and engage in invaluable networking opportunities with representatives from Skyline Attractions and other companies.
Distinguished speakers on the first day of SKYnext 2023 included industry luminaries such as Melissa Oviedo (VP of Marketing & Global Development at Nassal and President of TEA), Maxwell Glorit (Program Manager at IAAPA Expo Education), and Jacob “Jack” Falfas (Amusement Industry Executive). The second day continued with an equally-impressive roster: Tom Iven (Executive VP of Business Development at Premier Parks, LLC), Brian Andrelczyk (Project Manager at SeaWorld Parks & Resorts Orlando), Charles Laureano (Senior Director of Operations, Maintenance, and Construction at Six Flags Over Texas and Hurricane Harbor Arlington), Susie Storey (President at Storey to Story Communications), and Jimmy Dagley (Manager Ride & Show at Universal Creative).
Attendees were treated to a behind-the-scenes tour of Pipeline: The Surf Coaster at SeaWorld Orlando on Friday evening, followed by spooky fun at Howl-O-Scream, the park’s renowned Halloween event. SKYnext concluded on Saturday evening at Fun Spot America in Orlando, offering attendees a chance to enjoy thrilling rides and reflect on the experiences shared during the event. The event also featured delightful culinary offerings, including Skyline Chili catering on Friday and Publix subs, a beloved Orlando food offering, served on Saturday.
This year’s SKYnext marked a significant milestone as it returned to an in-person format after running annually from 2015 through 2018 before taking a multi-year hiatus. The triumphant return was made possible through the generous sponsorship of IAAPA, Amusement Today, Nassal, Vekoma, Fun Spot America, and Merit Fasteners. Representatives from these companies and Skyline Attractions were present throughout the event.
“SKYnext is more than just an event; it’s a stepping stone for the future of the theme park industry,” Skyline Attractions Design Engineer, and SKYnext alumni, Tyler Mullins shared. “SKYnext provides a place where bright minds come together, build connections, exchange ideas, and shape a path forward. We’re excited to witness and contribute to the positive influence it has on our amazing industry.”
54 young industry professionals were invited to attend SKYnext, following a rigorous application process. Attendees traveled from as close as Orlando to as far as England. They represented a wide range of backgrounds, including engineers, marketing professionals, creatives, and more.
“My favorite thing [about SKYnext] was the speakers – we had some incredible speakers with incredible stories and incredible lessons,” SKYnext attendee Kylie Stamey shared. “We heard from so many unique individuals, and they packed everything into two days, which is insane for the amount I learned.”
Skyline Attractions is proud to have helped inspire the next generation of themed entertainment professionals and forge connections that will shape the future. Skyline Attractions looks forward to the continued growth and success of SKYnext in the years to come.
About Skyline Attractions:
Skyline Attractions is an amusement ride design and manufacturing firm based in Orlando, Florida, USA. With a strong focus on innovation, quality, and customer satisfaction, Skyline Attractions designs and engineers a variety of rides for amusement parks worldwide. Their portfolio includes the P’Sghetti Bowl Children’s Coasters, TrailRunner Family Coaster, and a collection of compact steel coasters. Skyline Attractions also provides its design and engineering services to Great Coasters International, Inc. and has designed and engineered many of the company’s premier rides, including Texas Stingray, Roaring Timbers, and the new Zambezi Zinger.
