IAAPA has announced a raft of new programmes for its members in 2016, with leadership training, telemedicine and safety self-assessment among the new offerings from the attractions industry body.

Among IAAPA’s new initiatives is its Institute for Attraction Leaders. Aimed at mid-level managers and directors looking to reach senior and executive levels, the four-day programme is designed to develop leadership qualities and enhance situational leadership skills in a peer-to-peer learning environment.

In addition, IAAPA is partnering with insurance company Britton Gallagher to give member companies in the US access to its new telemedicine programme. The partnership means member companies’ employees will gain access to health care services via telephone, computer, and mobile app, hopefully reducing healthcare costs, improving employee productivity, and increasing employee satisfaction.

With new IAAPA chair John McReynolds calling safety a key priority for the body, its new Facility Excellence Self-Assessment Tool will play an important part, helping members to maintain safety standards. The downloadable tool allows users to measure their progress and assess their current safety measures keeping standards at a high level.

IAAPA also recently launched IAAPA Certification, a new mark of professional excellence within the attractions industry. Offering recognition for professionals' years of experience and development training, the new certification is open to all levels of industry professionals.

"We're pleased to share these exciting benefits and opportunities with our membership. They offer the potential to save thousands of dollars and ensure IAAPA members remain prepared and well-educated," said Renee Joe, IAAPA's vice president of global membership, marketing, and services. "These are tremendously valuable additions to the IAAPA membership programme."

IAAPA has a number of key events and educational opportunities lined up for 2016, including its Leadership Conference in Mexico in March, its European Spring Forum in Italy in May and safety institutes throughout the year in locations including Argentina, Canada, Ecuador, China, Brazil, Spain and Guatemala.

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