APPAU Phoenix Delivers an Impactful Week of Learning and Connection

APPAU Phoenix brought the educational facilities community together for an energizing and highly successful professional development experience in downtown Phoenix from February 2–5, 2026. Hosted at the Renaissance Phoenix Downtown Hotel, the event welcomed more than 450 facilities professionals from across higher education and K–12, all focused on strengthening leadership skills, sharing real‑world insights, and building lasting connections.

Participants engaged in APPA’s flagship programs, including the Institute for Facilities Management (IFM), Leadership Academy, AI in Facilities Management (Targeted Titles and Topics – T3), and CEFP Live Prep, with expert instructors delivering practical tools and strategies attendees can take back to their campuses immediately. Optional facilities walking tours and hands‑on learning experiences added depth and real‑world context to the week’s programming.

A standout element of APPAU Phoenix was the Targeted Titles and Topics (T3): AI in Facilities program, which offered focused, practical learning for professionals exploring how emerging technologies are shaping facilities operations. T3 participants continued the conversation at the T3 Speakeasy Reception, sponsored by Siemens, where attendees gathered in a relaxed, immersive setting to network, exchange ideas, and connect with peers around innovation and the future of facilities management.

Networking was a highlight throughout the week—from the opening reception with APPA leadership to evening events that encouraged meaningful connection and collaboration among colleagues facing shared challenges across campus environments.

The week concluded with a celebratory graduation and closing reception, recognizing participants who completed IFM core areas or Leadership Academy levels—an inspiring moment that underscored APPAU’s commitment to professional growth and career advancement.

Thank you to everyone who joined us in Phoenix and helped make APPAU such a success. We look forward to continuing the momentum at future APPA events!

Check out the more images from the event in the APPAU Gallery