Biography
Brian D. Avery is a seasoned professional with a career spanning over three decades in the events, venues, and attractions industry. His expertise lies in four vital areas: risk and safety management, event design and execution, attraction operations, and education. Brian's journey began at a young age, working as a midway operator at Boardwalk and Baseball amusement park, which sparked his passion for the industry. His career includes managing five restaurants at Universal Studios in Orlando, working as a SeaWorld and Discovery Cove safety specialist, and contributing significantly to post-Katrina tradeshow recovery efforts in New Orleans with GES Exposition Services.
Academically, Brian holds a Bachelor of Science in Health, Leisure, and Exercise Science, a Post-Baccalaureate Graduate Certificate in Industrial Engineering with a concentration in Human Factors and Safety, and a Master of Science in Hospitality and Tourism Management. He completed coursework for a Ph.D. in hospitality education, focusing on events, tourism, and attractions' safety and risk management. Brian's commitment to education is evident through his roles as an instructor at the Rosen College of Hospitality Management at the University of Central Florida and as a lecturer at the University of Florida's College of Health and Human Performance. He has developed innovative curricula, including a minor in Live Entertainment Management and a certificate in Legal and Risk Management, and introduced a Theme Park and Attraction Management course. His influence extends internationally, providing safety consulting and expert witness services across the United States, the United Kingdom, Dubai, Saudi Arabia, and the Caribbean. Additionally, Brian is actively studying artificial intelligence and its applications in enhancing safety, efficiency, and management in his fields of expertise.
Degrees
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Ph.D. (completed coursework/medical withdrawal), College of Education and Human Performance, Hospitality Education: Event, Tourism, and Attraction Safety and Risk Management
University of Central Florida ▪ 2010
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M.S. , Rosen College of Hospitality Management, Event, Tourism, and Hospitality Management - Risk Management
University of Central Florida ▪ 2007
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Post-Baccalaureate Graduate Certificate, College of Engineering and Computer Science, Industrial Engineering / Human Factors and Safety
University of Central Florida ▪ 2002
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B.S. , College of Arts and Social Sciences - Health, Leisure, and Exercise Science
University of West Florida ▪ 1998
