Call For Presenters – International ACCT Conference and Expo | Ropes Course Conference | Zip Line Conference

Now Accepting Workshop Proposals for the 35th Annual International ACCT Conference and Exposition!

The initial call for presenters has closed, but the waitlist is open until December 16, 2024.

Click to submit a session proposal for the waitlist.

The submission window for pre-conference, post-conference, and general session proposals closed on May 31, 2024. Speakers and presenters were notified of their acceptance in July 2024. Waitlisted submissions may still be contacted prior to the conference, so we appreciate your flexibility in the months leading up to January 21, 2025. If you have any questions, please reach out to the Workshop Review Task Force (WRTF) at: workshops@acctinfo.org.

Session Tracks

The annual international conference and exposition features 9 different session tracks—including session topics, descriptions, and learning objectives—to help conference attendees tailor their experience to their interests and goals. We invite prospective speakers to browse session selection guidelines provided by the Workshop Coordinators of the Conference Work Group (click to review):

Certifications (CERT)

The Certifications session track offers attendees the opportunity to enhance their skills and credentials through educational sessions that lead to certification upon successful completion. These sessions are designed to provide attendees with specialized knowledge and practical skills in various aspects of challenge course operations, safety, and equipment maintenance, empowering them to excel in their roles within the industry.

Example Sessions Include: American Red Cross First Aid/CPR/AED Instructor Training; Inspector Certification Exam (ICE) Prep Course; and LockD Operator Service Training.
Example Keywords Include: Curriculum, beginner, intermediate, advanced, review, train, test, exam, certify, certificate, certification, award, etc.

Facilitation and Programming (FP)

The Facilitation and Programming session track offers attendees valuable insights and strategies for enhancing program development and facilitation skills. These sessions delve into various aspects of program design, implementation, and evaluation. Attendees learn practical techniques and best practices for creating engaging and impactful experiences for staff and participants. Whether you’re a seasoned facilitator or new to the field, this track provides valuable resources to elevate your programming efforts and enrich the experience.

Example Sessions Include: Conflict Resolution 101, Effective Debriefing Tools and Techniques, and Inspiring Sustainability through Challenge Courses.
Example Keywords Include: Staff, guide, facilitator, trainer, games, activities, toolkit, soft skills, debrief, initiatives, group management, etc.

Industry and Business (IB)

The Industry and Business session track offers attendees valuable insights into the regulatory landscape, incident trends, and the state of the industry. These sessions provide essential knowledge and strategies for navigating the business side of the industry while inspiring attendees to drive positive change and innovation in their own organizations. Whether you’re a business owner, operator, or industry professional, this track equips you with the tools and knowledge needed to succeed in the challenge course industry.

Example Sessions Include: Challenge Course Regulations in Eastern Europe; Incident Trends, Benchmarking, and Solutions; and the QCP Task Force Update.
Example Keywords Include: Industry, business decisions, planning, standards, market, marketing, ROI, updates, research, analysis, reports, waivers, legal, laws, diversity, inclusion, hiring, HR, etc.

Open Forum (FORUM)

The Open Forum session track offers attendees a platform for open dialogue and discussion within specific interest groups or communities. These sessions provide a space for attendees to engage with peers who share similar interests, challenges, or backgrounds, fostering meaningful connections and exchanges of ideas. Whether you’re looking to network, share experiences, or learn from others, these Open Forum sessions provide valuable opportunities for collaboration and community-building at the conference.

Example Forums Include: Calling Midwest Practitioners; Qualified Course Professionals; and the Women of ACCT.
Example Keywords Include: Forum, group, gathering, meeting, professionals, Affinity Group, Work Group, regional group, etc.

Operations and Management (OM)

The Operations and Management session track offers attendees educational sessions centered around operations, leadership, and management within the challenge course industry. These sessions provide valuable insights and strategies for effectively managing and leading challenge course programs, addressing topics such as staff training, risk management, and operating tools. Whether you’re a program director, challenge course manager, or industry leader, these sessions provide practical tools and knowledge to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of challenge course operations and management.

Example Sessions Include: Artificial Intelligence in Aerial Adventure Parks (Bilingual), Crisis Communications for Challenge Course Programs, and Managing In-House Programs.
Example Keywords Include: Operations, management, staffing, staff training, standards, record keeping, etc.

Pre-Conference Sessions (PRE)

The Pre-Conference session track at the annual ACCT conference and expo offers attendees extended educational sessions focused on various topics relevant to the challenge course industry. These sessions are facilitated before the official conference kickoff, providing participants with an opportunity to delve deeper into specific subjects and enhance their conference experience. Whether you’re looking to expand your knowledge, gain valuable certifications, or explore new trends and best practices, these Pre-Conference sessions offer a comprehensive learning experience to benefit attendees before the main conference begins.

Example Sessions Include: Demystifying Operations and Training Standards, Manual Writing – Staring at a Blank Page, and Universal Accessibility in Aerial Adventures.
Example Keywords Include: Deep dive, intermediate, advanced, training, certification, development, standards, evaluation, etc.

Post-Conference Sessions (POST)

The Post-Conference session track offers attendees extended educational sessions focusing on various topics relevant to the challenge course industry. These sessions are facilitated after the conference concludes, providing participants with an opportunity to further explore specific subjects and extend the benefits of the conference experience. These sessions allow attendees to deepen their understanding and skills, ensuring a comprehensive learning experience even after the main conference activities have concluded.

Example Sessions Include: Challenge Course Tours.
Example Keywords Include: Tour, challenge course, canopy, zip line, tour, aerial adventure, course, park, site, facility, local, etc.

Technical (TT)

The Technical session track at the annual ACCT conference and expo offers attendees educational sessions that delve into various aspects of challenge course and equipment design, construction, and use. These sessions provide in-depth technical knowledge and insights to professionals working in the industry. These sessions are designed to equip attendees with the technical skills and knowledge necessary for safe and effective challenge course operations.

Example Sessions Include: The Math Behind Challenge Course Operating Systems, W.T.F. (Would That Fail?), and Zip Line Brakes and Landings.
Example Keywords Include: Gear, equipment, use, cleaning, tracking, storage, belay systems, knots, rescue, systems, skills, building, inspecting, mechanical advantages, PPE, ICE, etc.

Training (TR)

The Training session track offers attendees educational sessions focused on training staff and participants in various aspects of challenge course operations. These sessions cover a wide range of topics, from inspection and maintenance procedures to participant briefings and assists. These sessions aim to enhance the skills and knowledge of those involved in training development and facilitation.

Example Sessions Include: Hybrid Training – Lessons Learned, Psychological Risk Management, and Staff Training 101 – The Repeatable Process.
Example Keywords Include: Staff, guide, facilitator, trainer, training, local operating procedures, qualifications, competency, etc.

Speaker Resources

The following resources are provided to support speakers in developing and preparing for their sessions, including tips on creating accessible presentations and inclusive workshops:

Think of Your Audience:
- Skill Level: We aim to offer sessions that cater to a wide range of experience levels—from newcomers to the industry to seasoned professionals with decades of expertise.
- Focus Area: Our community serves diverse populations, including those in commercial and recreational sectors, educational or camp-based programs, therapeutic settings and more.
- Workshop Titles: A creative and descriptive title is your first chance to grab an attendee’s attention! With a six-word limit, make it engaging, concise, and fun!
Key Reminders for Presenters:
- Presenter Materials: Speakers had until September 2024 to request A/V assistance and loaner equipment. The WRTF is currently requesting the use of projectors and other resources to loan to presenters. Email us at workshops@acctinfo.org if you can provide equipment.
- Cell Service: Cellular service may vary based on your provider and the capacity of the host city and host venue’s access to service. Speakers should always consider bringing backup facilitation options.
- Printing: The Huntington Convention Center offers shipping and business services through an onsite UPS Store.
- WiFi: The Hilton Downtown Cleveland Hotel, where most conference sessions are hosted, offers free WiFi to all overnight guests. The Huntington Convention Center, where the Exhibit Hall lives, offers free WiFi in pre-function areas.
Share the Excitement: Accepted presenters are encouraged to showcase their involvement in the annual conference and expo by using this year’s Digital Presenter Badge for promotion!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Click on a question to learn more about the policies and procedures used by the Workshop Review Task Force (WRTF) and Workshop Coordinators or to review answers to frequently asked questions from presenters about conference logistics, expectations, and tips for maximizing the conference experience.

How do I submit a proposal?

The initial submission window for pre-conference, post-conference, and general session proposals closed on May 31, 2024. Speakers and presenters were notified of their acceptance in July 2024. Waitlisted submissions may still be contacted prior to the conference, so we appreciate your flexibility in the months leading up to January 21, 2025. If you have any questions, please reach out to the Workshop Coordinators at: workshops@acctinfo.org.

What is the proposal deadline?

How is the proposal deadline determined?

The proposal deadline is typically set several months before the conference to allow sufficient time for coordinating the many logistics involved in organizing a successful event. Scheduling sessions is a complex process that requires careful consideration of various factors, including:

Meeting room sizes and setups, along with set changes between sessions.
AV requirements and technical support needs.
Accommodation for key events such as the Inspector Certification Exam (ICE) or Operation Reviewer (OR) and/or other CEUs.
Presenter availability, including obligations to other ACCT committees or roles as exhibitors.

Locking in the schedule as early as possible enables us to share detailed session information with potential attendees, helping them prepare budgets and plans well in advance. We understand that the industry evolves rapidly, which is why we encourage you to provide as much detailed information as possible in your initial submission. This helps us make informed decisions about session offerings while considering these evolving needs.

What happens after I submit a proposal?

After your proposal is submitted, the Workshop Review Task Force (WRTF) is formed and begins their review process. Here’s what happens next:

Confidentiality: While presenter contact information is kept private, the following information is shared: Presenter and Co-Presenter Names, Session Title, Description, and Learning Objectives.
Proposal Distribution: Within two weeks of the call for presenters’ deadline, a unique link containing session-specific details is shared with each WRTF member.
Review Period: WRTF members have two weeks to evaluate submissions and provide their feedback to the Workshop Coordinators. Each member indicates whether they feel the session should be offered at the next annual conference and expo, and can provide additional comments, such as:
- Requesting more details about the session.
- Identifying potential overlap with similar submissions.
- Recommending which session to prioritize if a presenter has submitted multiple proposals.
Informed Decision-Making: Once responses are received, Workshop Coordinators collaborate with ACCT Staff to consider WRTF feedback, previous presenter evaluations, and additional factors such as whether a Pre-Conference session has been offered before. This helps ensure there are opportunities for new topics to be shared. Additionally, venue contracts are reviewed to confirm that all accepted sessions can be accommodated within the contracted spaces.
Session Track Balance: Final selections aim to provide a well-rounded program with a variety of session tracks and balanced content for all conference attendees.

This thorough process helps ensure that each proposal is carefully reviewed to foster a diverse, engaging, and impactful conference experience.

When will I be notified if my proposal was accepted?

What is the Workshop Review Task Force (WRTF)?

Representatives from various ACCT Volunteer Committees (collectively, the Workshop Review Task Force or “WRTF”) provide the Workshop Coordinators on the Conference Work Group (CWG) with feedback on submissions before the final selection process. This helps ensure that multiple perspectives shape the review process.

Do I have to register for the conference?

Yes, speakers are required to register for the conference. However, ACCT offers one (1) 50% discount off registration fees per session presented to presenters as a token of appreciation for their contribution to the event. We encourage presenters to take advantage of our Early Bird pricing to get the best deal possible. Learn more about Attendee Pricing and Registration.

Do I get a presenter discount?

Yes, ACCT offers one (1) 50% discount off registration fees per session presented to presenters as a token of appreciation for their contribution to the event. If your session involves multiple presenters, please discuss amongst yourselves who will be using the discount code for registration. We encourage presenters to take advantage of our Early Bird pricing to get the best deal possible. Learn more about Attendee Pricing and Registration.

Instructions on how to access this special pricing are typically sent to speakers via email around the same time registration for the conference opens. Please keep an eye on your inbox for further details on how to register and take advantage of the presenter discounts. If you have any specific questions or concerns regarding registration, feel free to reach out to our events team for assistance.

How can I make my presentation accessible?

Making your presentation accessible is crucial to help ensure that all conference attendees can fully engage with your content. Speakers may find the following tips helpful for enhancing accessibility:

Use Accessible Fonts and Colors: Opt for easy-to-read fonts like Arial or Calibri, and ensure sufficient color contrast between text and background to aid readability. Take advantage of online color contrast checkers to double-check your font and color schemes.
Provide Alternative Text for Images: Include descriptive alt text for images, graphs, and charts to ensure that visually impaired attendees can understand the content.
Use Descriptive Headings and Bullet Points: Structure your presentation with clear headings and bullet points to facilitate navigation for screen reader users and those with cognitive disabilities.
Use Captions: If your presentation includes videos, make sure to provide captions or transcripts to accommodate attendees who are deaf or hard of hearing. Consider using live caption tools so attendees can follow along as you’re speaking.
Ensure Keyboard Accessibility: For online and hybrid sessions, test your presentation to ensure that it can be navigated using keyboard-only commands, as some attendees may rely on keyboard navigation.
Avoid Automatic Transitions: Minimize the use of automatic slide transitions or animations, as these can be disorienting for attendees who use screen readers.
Provide Handouts in Accessible Formats: If you plan to distribute handouts, offer them in accessible formats such as Word documents or PDFs with proper tagging and formatting.

For more detailed guidance on creating accessible presentations, we recommend consulting the University of Wisconsin-Madison’s Guide to Creating Accessible Online and In-Person Presentations and Move United’s Accessibility Checklist.

How can I create an inclusive session?

Creating an inclusive session is essential to fostering a welcoming and accessible environment for all conference attendees. Here are some tips to help you achieve inclusivity:

Set Clear Expectations: Clearly outline the objectives and format of your session to help attendees understand what to expect and how they can participate.
Cultivate Diversity: Incorporate diverse perspectives, voices, and examples in your content to reflect the experiences of all attendees and promote cultural sensitivity.
Encourage Participation: Create opportunities for attendees to engage with the material through discussions, activities, or Q&A sessions, helping ensure that everyone has a chance to contribute.
Provide Accommodations: Anticipate and accommodate diverse learning styles, preferences, and accessibility needs by offering options such as live captioning, sign language interpreters, or materials in alternative formats or languages.
Promote Respect and Civility: Foster a respectful and inclusive environment by establishing ground rules for behavior and communication, emphasizing the importance of mutual respect and open-mindedness.
Evaluate and Adapt: Continuously assess the effectiveness of your session and be willing to adapt based on feedback and observations to help ensure that all attendees feel valued and included.

For further guidance on creating inclusive training sessions, we recommend exploring the article “Six Steps To Creating Inclusive Training” by RW3 CultureWizard.

What if I need help with something else?

Check out the answers to frequently asked questions about the conference, registration, and other pertinent logistics.

For specific questions related to workshops and session proposals, get in touch with the Workshop Coordinators at workshops@acctinfo.org.

For any additional questions or assistance regarding your trip to the Annual International ACCT Conference and Exposition, feel free to reach out to the Conference Work Group at events@acctinfo.org.