This June, I’ll be heading to Indianapolis for the Hospitality Industry Technology Exposition and Conference (HITEC®). For me, HITEC has always been less about the hype and more about the conversations and insights that stick with you long after the event.

Produced by Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP®), HITEC isn’t just about showcasing the latest tools or systems—it’s about exchanging ideas and asking the big questions: How can we use AI to create more personalized experiences? How do we really leverage data to drive smarter decisions? What’s next for sustainability in our industry?

These are the discussions that matter most as we work to future-proof hospitality in an ever-evolving world.

This year’s HITEC schedule is packed with incredible sessions, but I’ve handpicked a few that are absolute must-attends for anyone looking to stay ahead of the curve!

Maximize Impact Unlocking Data’s Hidden Potential

Wednesday, June 18 | 10 30 AM 11 AM

I will be hosting a session that stands out for its focus on practical application. While many properties gather extensive data, they often struggle to translate it into actionable insights that boost revenue or improve guest experiences. This session is a must-attend for those looking for invaluable insights for turning raw data into actionable strategic value.

Women in Hospitality Technology Meet Up

Wednesday, June 18 | 4 30 PM 5 15 PM

Celebrate and connect with the leaders shaping the future of hospitality technology. This networking event brings together top female executives like Silvia Camarota from Expedia Group, Katie Lee from AKA Hotels Hotel Residences, and Mercedes Blanco from The Hotels Network. Gain inspiration and insights from their vast experiences.

Monday, June 16 | 2 45 PM 3 45 PM

Unpack the challenges surrounding AI in hospitality. Carl Winston of Payne School at SDSU will discuss critical issues like guest privacy, algorithmic biases, and ethical dilemmas that arise when deploying AI for personalization.

Monday, June 16 | 10 45 AM 12 00 PM

Hospitality isn’t just about rooms anymore, it’s about creating ecosystems of experience. Greg Poirier and John Picard will share insights on designing sustainable, guest focused spaces while driving operational efficiency. Expect to walk away with a vision for turning your hotel into an environmentally conscious, dynamic destination.

Monday, June 16 | 9 00 AM 10 15 AM

Michael Goldrich and Matt Schwartz will provide a comprehensive guide for executives looking to strategically integrate AI into their operational frameworks. From predictive analytics to CRM optimization, this session will help leaders balance innovation with practicality.

Why HITEC Matters More Than Ever

What I value most about gatherings like HITEC is the opportunity to step back from day-to-day operations and consider the bigger picture. The hospitality industry faces significant challenges—from labor shortages to increasing guest expectations—that technology can help address.

The innovations showcased at the conference will undoubtedly be impressive. However, I believe the most successful organizations will be those who view technology not as a solution, but as an enabler of human connection. The best systems enhance rather than replace the human touch that makes hospitality special.

If you’re planning to attend HITEC, stop by the Infor Booth #2400 book a meeting here.

For those not attending, follow me on LinkedIn, where I will share photos, videos and some highlights from the event.

About Infor

Infor is a global leader in business cloud software specialized by industry. We develop complete solutions for our focus industries. Infor’s mission-critical enterprise applications and services are designed to deliver sustainable operational advantages with security and faster time to value. Over 60,000 organizations in more than 175 countries rely on Infor’s 17,000 employees to help achieve their business goals. As a Koch company, our financial strength, ownership structure, and long-term view empower us to foster enduring, mutually beneficial relationships with our customers. Visit www.infor.com.

Alan Young
VP, Hospitality Strategy, Infor
Infor