HPA Tech Retreat Turns 30: What to Expect at This Year’s Event

The countdown to the 30th anniversary of the HPA Tech Retreat is on. In just a few weeks, from February 16–20, 2025, the media and entertainment industry’s most innovative minds will gather at the Westin Rancho Mirage Golf Resort & Spa for a week of unparalleled programming, meaningful networking, and forward-thinking discussions. As always, the retreat promises to challenge, inspire, and connect attendees like no other event in the industry.
This year’s retreat kicks off on Sunday with a full day of networking and relaxation. Attendees can ease into the week with a mix of activities, from a golf tournament to pickleball matches, bourbon tastings, and poolside cabanas. The day concludes with a lively welcome cocktail reception, setting the tone for the days ahead.
On Monday, the spotlight turns to HPA TR-X: Affordable Production, where industry leaders and technologists will explore the latest strategies for creating high-quality content on a budget. With insights from speakers like Michael Cioni, Kathryn Brillhart, and Renard Jenkins, the sessions will dive into everything from indie productions to cost-conscious sports broadcasts, providing real-world solutions to today’s challenges. As the day winds down, the Innovation Zone comes alive with hands-on technology demos, appetizers, and cocktails—an energetic hub for discovery and connection.
Tuesday’s Supersession promises to be one of the most transformative events. Themed around the evolving human role in AI-driven production and post-production, the day-long session will examine the opportunities and challenges that AI presents for the industry. Highlights include “Live Without a Net,” where professionals tackle complex production tasks using AI tools in real-time, as well as thought-provoking panels featuring experts like Barbara Ford Grant, David Slade, Karyn Temple and many, many more. The evening culminates with a celebratory dinner marking the retreat’s 30th anniversary.
The core of the Tech Retreat unfolds on Wednesday and Thursday with two days of cutting-edge programming. Curated by Mark Schubin and featuring a lineup of renowned speakers, these sessions delve into the most pressing topics shaping the future of media and entertainment. From panels exploring emerging technologies to spirited debates on the industry’s direction, the conference offers a rare opportunity to gain insights directly from the experts. Evening activities include Innovation Zone demos, food trucks, and an official closing celebration.
Throughout the retreat, attendees can also take part in breakfast roundtables—an HPA favorite—where intimate discussions over coffee spark new ideas and foster deeper connections. With the entire resort dedicated exclusively to the Tech Retreat, the event provides a focused, distraction-free environment that encourages collaboration and innovation.
For three decades, the HPA Tech Retreat has been a beacon for creativity, technology, and leadership in media and entertainment. It consistently sells out in advance, and this year is no exception. If you haven’t secured your spot yet, now is the time. This isn’t just an event; it’s a gathering that leaves a lasting impact on everyone who attends.
Don’t miss your chance to be part of the conversation shaping the future of our industry.