

Our one-day format is tailored for busy professionals, providing a concentrated schedule that delivers results without the need for extended time away from the office. By bringing world-class education directly to your backyard, we make it easier than ever for our supplier partners and meeting planners to earn valuable information that advance their careers. The MPI Academy's cutting-edge programs ensure participants gain the skills and knowledge they need to excel in the ever-evolving meetings and events industry.
At MPI's Regional Business Exchanges, we offer the unique opportunity to connect directly during our Speed Meeting Platform, where planners will meet with destination marketing organizations, hotels, resorts, and service providers. This targeted environment fosters the exchange of business opportunities and the formation of strategic partnerships for the future.
Marriott Headquarters
7707 Woodmont Avenue
Bethesda, MD
The Engagement Formula: In a unique collaboration, Marriott, Access DMC, Encore and MPI are coming together to deliver a session grounded in the strengths of each organization: the educational leadership of MPI, the deep hospitality and guest-experience expertise of Marriott, and the global production insight of Encore. Together, we're bringing you a holistic perspective on what it truly takes to design events that resonate with today’s diverse audiences.
The Engagement Formula dives into how today’s multi-generational audiences think, behave, and decide where to focus their attention. With expectations shifting faster than ever, planners need practical ways to design experiences that feel relevant and meaningful. Blending data, psychology, and real-world event insights, this session breaks down what makes modern attendees tick, and how to create moments that turn them from passive observers into active participants.
| 9:30-10:00 AM | Arrival + Light Breakfast |
| 10:00-10:10 AM | Welcome / Opening Remarks |
| 10:10-10:55 AM | Education Session 1 |
| 10:55-11:10 AM | Break |
| 11:15-12:30 PM | Speed Meetings |
| 12:30-1:00 PM | Lunch / Group 1 to Test Kitchen Experience* |
| 1:0-1:20 PM | Lunch / Group 2 to Test Kitchen Experience* |
| 1:20-2:15 PM | Education Session 2 |
| 2:15-2:30 PM | Closing Remarks |

As Vice President of Brand & Experience Strategy, Michael leads the development and execution of a unified brand vision that positions Access as a trusted, differentiated leader in the destination management industry. He oversees the integration of brand strategy, marketing, public relations, and experiential design to elevate market presence, strengthen customer engagement, and drive business growth. By leveraging data, insights, and innovation, Michael ensures Access messaging, campaigns, and investments are aligned to maximize brand equity, visibility, and measurable impact across all channels.
He also focuses on creating meaningful, high-impact experiences, both externally for clients and partners, and internally for Associates, that bring the Access brand to life and reinforce its value proposition. He works closely with sales, partnerships, and leadership teams to align brand efforts with revenue generation, support client acquisition and retention, and enhance industry presence. Ultimately, his role is to ensure that every interaction anyone has with Access consistently reflects the brand promise, builds trust, and drives long-term growth, especially through face-to-face events that appeal to multi-generational attendees.

Tim Luepke is the Director of the MPI Academy for Meeting Professionals International, where he leads the charge in advancing professional development & education within the meetings and events industry. With a passion for lifelong learning, Tim currently oversees the development and delivery of cutting-edge educational programs designed to equip industry professionals with the skills and knowledge they need to excel. His approach combines experiential learning with formal education ensuring that participants not only gain valuable insights but also connect deeply with the material.
Previous to MPI, Tim spent almost two decades in live event operations, leading teams for large scale events from the creative design through the technical execution of live, hybrid, and virtual productions. Tim has a passion for storytelling and commitment to professional development for those around him. When Tim is not on the clock, you will find him on the sidelines of his kid’s sporting events, walking his dogs through the woods, or trying something new every day.