attendee experience. Some carnival providers now use RFID wristbands that not only manage ride access but also improve child safety by allowing staff to quickly locate lost children through realtime data. Looking ahead, Grindle sees significant potential in artificial intelligence. By analyzing years of attendance and weather data, fairs may soon be able to better predict staffing needs, food and beverage demand, and operational adjustments—allowing them to serve guests more efficiently while reducing waste. “AI won’t replace human judgment,” he says, “but it can help us anticipate needs and make smarter decisions.” RECONNECTING COMMUNITIES WITH AGRICULTURE Perhaps the most profound role fairs play lies in bridging the widening gap between agricultural The Institute addresses the full scope of fair operations, from facilities management and HVAC systems to agriculture programming, entertainment booking, and safety planning. Graduates emerge with a deeper understanding of how to operate sustainable, resilient fairgrounds. In addition, IAFE hosts regional learning events and an annual convention each December, rotating locations across North America. These gatherings increasingly incorporate voices from outside the traditional fair industry, including experts in theme parks, rural development, event security, and legal compliance—reflecting a growing recognition that innovation often comes from adjacent sectors. TECHNOLOGY, DATA, AND THE ROLE OF AI Technology adoption across fairs has accelerated, particularly in areas such as cashless payments and electronic ticketing. These systems improve transparency, simplify auditing, and enhance the 79 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 13, ISSUE 01 INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF FAIRS AND EXPOSITIONS
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