PLUS Conference

Networking Information

There will be many opportunities for networking at the 2026 PLUS Conference. Explore a variety of curated networking possibilities, including the connections lounge and engaging social events.

Monday, November 9

7:00pm – 9:00pm
Location: Topgolf Suites (located inside the hotel)
Tee Off the PLUS Conference: Pre-Conference Mixer

Join us as we tee off the PLUS Conference at our exciting pre-conference mixer at Topgolf, conveniently located in the hotel. Enjoy an evening of networking and Topgolf hosted by Future PLUS. All registered attendees are welcome. Light hors d’oeuvres and drinks will be available.

Tuesday, November 10

11:00am – 5:00pm
Location: Marriott Grand Ballroom 9–13
Connections Lounge - All Attendees Welcome

Take a break, recharge, and connect at the Connections Lounge. Enjoy professional headshots and unique experiences, such as the Cosmic Career Activation and a Social Media Profile Polish. Refuel with delicious food, beverages, and barista-crafted coffee while networking or simply taking a moment for yourself. Business and wellness come together here.

12:15pm - 1:15pm
Location: Foyer Outside Pacific Ballroom
Connect @ Conference

Start your PLUS Conference networking experience by connecting with fellow industry professionals through engaging networking activities. Set in a relaxed atmosphere, this event is hosted by Future PLUS volunteers and offers a perfect opportunity to share insights, build relationships, and compete for exciting prizes. This session is a must-do for those new to the PLUS Conference and Future PLUS.

3:30pm - 5:00pm
Location: Marriott Grand Ballroom 1-7
PLUS Opening General Session featuring Jesse Cole(opens in new tab)(opens in new tab)

PLUS's opening general session kicks off with the Founders and PLUS1 Awards, followed by Jesse Cole, Founder of Fans First Entertainment and Owner of the Savannah Bananas. Never a dull moment with Jesse around!

Change the Game: Break the Rules and Create Unforgettable Experiences

Jesse shares behind-the-peel stories and hard-earned lessons on standing out, driving growth, and inspiring loyalty. He'll break down his "Five E's" formula, the same one that's earned the Bananas over a billion social media views and a waiting list half a million fans deep.

Eliminate Friction
Entertain Always
Experiment Constantly
Engage Deeply
Empower Action

If it sounds bananas, that's the point. Get ready to break the rules, inspire your team, and put people and relationships first.

6:00pm - 9:00pm
Location: USS Midway Museum
PLUS Welcome Reception aboard the USS Midway(opens in new tab)

Join us for an unforgettable evening aboard the USS Midway, one of the most iconic ships in American history, docked on the San Diego waterfront. Shuttle transportation runs from 5:45pm to 9:30pm. Enjoy food, cocktails, and live music on the flight deck, explore state-of-the-art flight simulators, and take in a fireworks display over the bay to close out the night.

Connect with Future PLUS volunteer leaders and other attendees at the PLUS Pop Up Bar in the Marriott Ballroom Foyer prior to taking the shuttle to the USS Midway for the PLUS Welcome Reception. Drinks are at your own expense.

Once you arrive on the USS Midway, if you would like to tour the ship with other Future PLUS attendees, meet at the tour entrance at 6:30pm.

Wednesday, November 11

8:15am – 5:00pm
Location: Marriott Grand Ballroom 9–13
Connections Lounge

Open to all registered attendees
Take a break, recharge, and connect at the Connections Lounge. Enjoy professional headshots and unique experiences, such as the Cosmic Career Activation and a Social Media Profile Polish. Refuel with delicious food, beverages, and barista-crafted coffee while networking or simply taking a moment for yourself. Business and wellness come together here.

8:15am – 9:15am
Location: Marriott Grand Ballroom 1-7
Attendee Breakfast + Emerging Leader Awards

Start your day with inspiration, recognition, and meaningful conversation. At this breakfast session, attendees will celebrate the recipients of the 2026 Emerging Leader Awards, spotlighting rising professionals who are shaping the future of the industry.

11:45am - 1:30pm
Location: Marriott Grand Ballroom 1-7
PLUS Foundation Luncheon featuring Col. Nicole Malachowski, USAF (Ret)(opens in new tab)(opens in new tab)

Harnessing Headwinds: Successfully Navigating Change & Adversity

Every leader faces headwinds, challenges, change, and the unknown that can throw you off course. Nicole uses this aviation metaphor to show how the right mindset turns headwinds into an advantage.

Walk away with the tools to:

Overcome personal and professional challenges
Navigate organizational and cultural change
Build resilience, adaptability, and the courage to rise above self-doubt
Support and mentor others on your team

5:00pm - 6:30pm
Location: Pop-Up Bar
Mentorship Program Meet Up

Participants of the Future PLUS Mentorship Program are invited to this informal meet-up for a chance to connect in-person. Join us for the connection and potentially meet your next mentor/mentee match.

Drinks are at your own expense.

5:00pm - 7:00pm
Location: Registration desk across from the Pop-Up Bar
Meet & Eat

Meet new people over dinner! Sign up at the registration desk for a reservation with up to 6 others at a local San Diego restaurant. Perfect if you're traveling solo or looking to branch out beyond the sponsor parties.

Thursday, November 12

8:00am - 11:00am
Location: Marriott Grand Ballroom 9–13
Connections Lounge

Open to all registered attendees
Take a break, recharge, and connect at the Connections Lounge. Enjoy professional headshots and chair massages. Refuel with delicious food, beverages, and barista-crafted coffee while networking or simply taking a moment for yourself. Business and wellness come together here.

8:00am - 8:30am
Location: Marriott Grand Ballroom 1-7
Attendee Breakfast with Leadership Gavel Exchange