Everything is Bigger in Texas: Recap of FCSI Conference in Austin

This April, I had the pleasure of attending the much-anticipated Camp FCSI 2024 held in Austin, Texas. As a hospitality consultant and the chair of the Asia Pacific division, the event offered a golden opportunity to network with fellow consultants and FCSI members from across the globe, highlighting the diversity and unity within our industry.

Set against the backdrop of the Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort from April 11-13, the conference unfolded over several days packed with activities, learning, and networking. The event had been eagerly awaited since its postponement in 2020 due to the pandemic, and it certainly did not disappoint.

The conference kicked off with an unforgettable welcome: a dazzling display of 150 drones lighting up the night sky, crafting messages like ‘Welcome to Austin’ and ‘Camp FCSI’ along with other playful images. This spectacle perfectly encapsulated the spirit of the event—innovative, engaging, and distinctly Texan in its grandeur.

The theme of the outdoors was tastefully woven throughout the event, complemented by the balmy Texas weather. The opening night set a congenial tone for the days to follow, with a near-even mix of 335 consultant Professional members and manufacturer Allied members mingling over Texas BBQ and local culinary delights, served from an array of food trucks.

Over the next two days, the agenda curated by the Conference Planning Committee and FCSI The Americas’ executive director, Wade Koehler, struck an ideal balance between educational sessions and social interactions. Activities ranged from horseback riding and archery to crafts and drafts, providing unique ways to network and unwind.

The educational component was robust, covering a diverse array of topics such as frictionless payments, AI, and smart-phone marketing. Each session provided valuable insights into both design and MAS consulting, reflecting the dynamic nature of our industry.

One of the highlights for me personally was participating in the panel series, ‘If I Would Have Known Then.’ Alongside esteemed colleagues Christine Guyott FCSI RDN, Bill Bender FCSI Joe Mora FCSI, we delved into our careers to share lessons learned, challenges overcome, and milestones achieved. The candid discussion underscored the importance of understanding what you don’t know, adapting to client needs, and balancing confidence with humility—traits that are indispensable for any consultant.

As chair of the Asia Pacific division, the conference was a fantastic learning experience, providing me with invaluable insights and ideas as we plan our upcoming FCSI Asia Pacific conference in Vietnam for 2025. The gathering also brought together for the first time in many years the heads of FCSI from the Americas, Asia-Pacific, and Europe, Middle East divisions. This reunion not only enhanced the global perspective of the sessions but also fostered a sense of global community and shared purpose among all attendees.

Camp FCSI 2024 was more than just a conference; it was a celebration of the resilience and evolving nature of the foodservice consulting industry. As we all departed Austin, we carried with us not just the knowledge and insights from the sessions, but also renewed connections and friendships that span continents.

The experience was a vivid reminder that in our field, continuous learning and networking are as vital as the services we offer. Here’s to many more inspiring gatherings in the years to come!