GSNA Equipment Academy 

January 14-16,2026
Athens, GA

It’s that time again!

The GSNA Equipment Academy is BACK — and in a NEW LOCATION!

The GSNA Equipment Academy, the first and best of its kind, returns to celebrate innovation, education, and collaboration in school nutrition. And what better place to host this “classic” event than the classic city of Athens, Georgia!

Join GSNA as we honor the original Equipment Academy legacy builders – Mark Conoly and Cindy Ham — whose vision set the standard for excellence in equipment education.

This year’s Academy will be packed with:

  • Hands-on demonstrations from industry experts on combi ovens, walk-ins, and much more
  • Small wares exhibits showcasing the latest innovations
  • Learning sessions across five classrooms — each featuring unique equipment categories
  • 1-on-1 time with factory reps, chefs, and Georgia equipment dealers
  • Networking opportunities to connect with colleagues and leaders from across the state

Don’t miss live cooking demos led by factory-certified chefs, featuring food products selected with the guidance of Georgia’s own school nutrition directors.

The GSNA Equipment Academy remains a cornerstone of professional learning and collaboration — and this year’s event will be one for the books!

Maintenance Track for Maintenance Directors & Team Members

Does someone in your school system maintain the equipment in your District’s kitchens? 

Would they benefit from some hands-on training related to kitchen equipment repair?

Does the chance to build a network with maintenance team members in other Districts to provide outside expertise appeal to you? 

Consider sending one or more of your team members to the Georgia School Nutrition Association Equipment Academy.

Why send a Maintenance Tech to the GSNA Equipment Academy:

  • Extend operational lifespan of equipment through increase knowledge of effective repair of kitchen equipment
  • Ensure operational efficiency through reduced utility costs and less down time
  • Decrease repair costs through routine preventative maintenance plans
  • Reduce risk to the District on workers compensation claims due to injuries related to ill-maintained equipment causing injury

The GSNA Equipment Academy Maintenance track is designed for school nutrition professionals and maintenance teams, this track dives into the essentials of keeping equipment running safely and efficiently.

Sessions include CFESA-certified training, planned maintenance strategies, effective communication with service providers, navigating the bidding process, monitoring equipment performance, and hands-on learning with combi ovens and refrigeration systems.

REGISTER NOW!

SN REGISTRATION FORM MAINTENANCE REGISTRATION FORM
Your meeting registration covers:
Two and a half days training that meets the USDA Professional Standards guidelines
Lunches are provided for Wednesday, January 14th and Thursday, January 15th
Burgers & Bingo on Wednesday evening
Networking Reception on Thursday evening
NEW! Your Equipment Bible in a new format - "Live Binder"

First Day Start-End:            8:00 AM – 5:30 PM Burgers & Bingo
Second Day Start-End:      8:00 AM – 5:30 PM Reception
Third Day Start-End:          8:00 AM – 1:00 PM (SN Only)

 HOTEL
Make your hotel reservations NOW! The hotel reservations block closes on December 13th.
Courtyard Marriott Hotel Link |  Hyatt Place Hotel Link