Collegiate DECA’s Engage Conference challenges Collegiate DECA members to understand their career interests, skills and experiences, and empowers them to stand out from the competition. On Friday, Collegiate DECA members will have the opportunity to attend a business tour of a thriving Tampa business.
Attendees will be emailed with a link to sign up for their EduTOUR. Members can only sign up for one EduTOUR and all tours are first come, first serve. Be sure to provide your email during registration to guarantee your selection.
This year's tours are in the entrepreneurship, hospitality, management and marketing fields.
Boulon Brasserie & Bakery: Next Level Brands
Focus: Culinary, Restaurant and Food Service Management
Next Level Brands is a Tampa Bay hospitality group led by Jeff Gigante, creating guest-centric restaurants rooted in genuine hospitality. Director of Culinary, Chef Jacob Rios, and Operations and Wine Director Heather Rivas anchor seasonally driven cuisine and thoughtful beverage programs that deliver consistently high-quality experiences. Next Level Brands centers its culture on innovation, quality, hospitality, and community, with partnerships and events that bring Tampa Bay together. Recognition includes Wine Spectator–noted wine programs, and growth will continue to St. Pete and beyond.
JW Marriott Tampa Water Street
Focus: Management, Marketing Communications, Sales Management
There’s nothing better than having just what you need, exactly when you need it. That’s why at JW Marriott Tampa Water Street we have exceptional amenities ready and waiting. We combine modern luxury with the sophisticated energy of Tampa's Water Street neighborhood. From chef-crafted specialties to holistic wellness amenities and sleek, modern rooms, our hotel is dedicated to your well-being.
PPK + National Pediatric Cancer Foundation
Focus: Advertising Campaign, Graphic Design, Project Management
Established in 2004 in Tampa, Florida, PPK is one of the Southeast’s most decorated Independent Advertising & Production Agencies. Founded on the belief that sound, strategic creative strategy and communications plans coupled with true partnership and client collaboration will always deliver results. It’s not about egos. It’s about rolling up our collective sleeves and putting in the time, energy and effort to drive the bottom line, regardless of the business challenge we face.
Sports Facilities Company
Focus: Strategic Management, Venue Planning and Procurement, Marketing Communications
The Sports Facilities Companies (SFC) is the nation’s leading resource for the management and development of sports, recreation, wellness, and events facilities. As a turn-key solution for community leaders and developers alike, SFC services span the gamut of sports and recreation needs. With over 90 managed venues and approximately 4,000 team members, represented by the SF Network, SFC welcomes nearly 30 million guest visits and produces almost $1 billion in economic impact each year.
Tampa Sports Authority at Raymond James Stadium
Focus: Sports and Entertainment Marketing, Event Planning
Raymond James Stadium is home to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the University of South Florida Bulls. The stadium also hosts the Gasparilla Bowl, Reliaquest Bowl, concerts, soccer events and monster truck shows. The tours offer behind-the-scenes access to the stadium and will focus on various careers in the operation of the stadium.
The Tampa Edition
Focus: Management, Marketing Communications, Sales Management
A beacon of contemporary luxury, The Tampa EDITION is a striking Michelin-Keyed sanctuary nestled in the heart of Florida’s Gulf Coast. As the city’s first true luxury hotel, The Tampa EDITION is home to an array of world-class food and beverage offerings led by renowned Chef John Fraser, including the One Michelin-Starred Lilac, and the exclusive Punch Room cocktail bar. With its impeccable design, exceptional hospitality, and curated experiences, The Tampa EDITION has quickly become the go-to destination for both travelers and locals, offering an extraordinary blend of elegance and relaxation.
The University of Tampa | John P. Lowth Entrepreneurship Center
Focus: Entrepreneurship
Ever wondered what it’s really like to launch a business or work inside a fast-paced startup? Join Spartan Incubator founders as they share how they turned ideas into real ventures — and how you can do the same by tapping into the mentorship, resources, and support offered by the John P. Lowth Entrepreneurship Center. This panel will explore what it’s like to participate in the Spartan Incubator, the valuable skills gained by interning with an early-stage company, and the many ways students can get involved in entrepreneurship on campus. Whether you’re looking to start your own company or gain hands-on experience working for one, this conversation will help you chart your path. The discussion, moderated by Branden Weber, M.S., Manager of Operations, will be followed by a tour of the 2017 Nasdaq Center for Entrepreneurial Excellence and 26,000 sq. ft. of Class A startup space.
Visit Tampa Bay
Focus: Marketing Communications, Event Planning
The hip, urban heart of Florida's Gulf Coast beats boldly in Tampa Bay, where active adventures, sky-high coasters, exotic wildlife, authentic culture, and award-winning, world-class cuisine await you. As a not-for-profit, private 501(c)(6) corporation accredited by Destinations International’s Destination Marketing Accreditation Program (DMAP), we collaborate with hundreds of partners to share Tampa Bay’s story with the world. Treasure awaits.
Please note that if an eduTOUR becomes unavailable due to the venue, DECA will make every best effort to accommodate members on another eduTOUR.
