IAVM’s Academy for Venue Safety & Security (AVSS) is a leading professional development program aimed at venue managers, public safety professionals, and others in the venue management field. The academy delivers a blend of classroom instruction, practical exercises, and hands-on activities, ensuring participants gain theoretical knowledge and actionable skills to apply immediately in their roles.
Each participant leaves with a comprehensive toolkit—reference materials, checklists, and a personalized “Action Plan” designed to support the application of new knowledge to real-world situations. Whether developing new security protocols or optimizing emergency response systems, AVSS offers the tools to drive immediate improvement in your organization.
IS AVSS FOR ME?
If you’re committed to creating safer, more secure venues, then AVSS is for you! With content tailored for all experience levels—from newcomers to seasoned leaders—AVSS helps you stay ahead in an ever-evolving industry and gives you the tools to create safer, more secure venues.
To view the general schedule of courses for 2026, click here to download.
AVSS 2026 Registration
Professional Member
$3500
AVSS online registration is now closed. Please contact meetings@iavm.org to register.
Professional Nonmember
$4300
AVSS online registration is now closed. Please contact meetings@iavm.org to register.
Join & Save Professional*
$4050
AVSS online registration is now closed. Please contact meetings@iavm.org to register.
Allied Member
$4300
AVSS online registration is now closed. Please contact meetings@iavm.org to register.
Allied Nonmember
$4600
AVSS online registration is now closed. Please contact meetings@iavm.org to register.
Rates include 5 nights at the host hotel (Sunday arrival-Friday departure) daily breakfast, lunch and breaks (Monday-Thursday), Thursday night graduation dinner.
*This new price type includes one year of professional IAVM membership in addition to your event registration.
***To view the AVSS 2026 Cancellation and Refund Policy, click here.
AVSS Learning Outcomes
Year 1 Objectives
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Enhance awareness and understanding of the venue and event safety and security ecosystem.
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Recognize core principles of adequate safety and security planning.
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Develop skills to communicate and relate safety and security plans, procedures, and concerns effectively to internal staff and key stakeholders while fostering a networked community.
Year 2 Objectives
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Demonstrate and apply comprehensive knowledge of the venue and event safety and security ecosystem.
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Integrate foundational principles of safety and security planning seamlessly within the organization.
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Exhibit proficiency in communicating, implementing, and managing safety and security plans in both daily operations and emergency situations.
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Identify valuable resources for ongoing professional development while staying informed on emerging safety and security issues and trends.
AVSS Housing & Travel
Kansas City Marriott Country Club Plaza
4445 Main St. Kansas City, MO 64111
Sunday March 15, 2026 – Thursday March 19, 2026
Registration includes 5 nights at the host hotel. IAVM will make your hotel reservation for arrival on Sunday and departure on Friday.
Attendees should plan to arrive in time for the first session at 3:00PMm on Sunday. AVSS concludes with the graduation dinner on Thursday night, attendees may plan to depart any time on Friday.
Direct access. Real buying power. Unmatched visibility.
Showcase your solutions to the leaders who shape how millions of fans, patrons, and attendees experience live events safely every year, and make your impact felt where it matters most.
Partner with AVSS and Elevate Your Impact!
Thank You To Our IAVM Global Partners
About IAVM
Representing public assembly venues from around the globe, IAVM’s 8,100+ active members include managers and senior executives from auditoriums, arenas, convention centers, exhibit halls, stadiums, performing arts centers, university complexes, amphitheaters and fairgrounds. IAVM’s mission is to educate, advocate for, and inspire public assembly venue professionals worldwide.