AI Integration for Venues: A VenuesNow Conference Panel Preview

VenuesNow Conference Panel Preview: Integrating AI Into Your Venue Wednesday, Sept. 30 10:30 AM – 11:00 AM | Grand Ballroom A & B at the Sheraton Grand Seattle

Becoming a part of everyday life across the world in ways many people don’t even notice, AI is already revolutionizing the live entertainment industry, touching aspects across the spectrum from dynamic ticket pricing and sales predictions to frictionless concessions and parking logistics to even infrastructure like HVAC and audio mixing.

The “Integrating AI Into Your Venue” panel at the VenuesNow Conference 2026 in Seattle will feature a conversation exploring practical applications and real-world use cases for artificial intelligence in live music, modern sports, and other forms of entertainment.

Moderated by Adam Haskin, SVP of technology, engineering and security for Oak View Group, the panel includes Bryan Bedford, Cisco GM/Director of Sales & Consumer Industries; Chris Cline, SVP of Product at 24/7 Software; David Schwartz, CEO of MasterMind developer ABI; and Kevin Devore, Senior Principal & Technology Director at ME Engineers.

Attendees can also expect a focus on AI operational integration, efficiency, automation, and determining the real value of AI in today’s live event market from the 30-minute discussion.

While AI-enhanced facial recognition and security measures can make sensational headlines suggesting something out of The Terminator or the Matrix, most AI applications are less dystopian — and can increase operations and add to the bottom line when adopted properly.

One example is Cisco’s Catalyst Center software, which can be used to enhance a venue’s WiFi capability, anticipating interference and adjusting power levels and swapping channels across an arena floor to prevent any connection slowdown or outages.

AI has become a big part of modern Point of Sale solutions, including adding in real-time backroom dashboards that provide the data for the effective real-time deployment of human personnel at hot spots as well as spinning off additional free-standing terminals to manage stadium traffic.

In an industry known for being driven behind the scenes by relationships, and on the stage for the human connection between fans and performers, the AI revolution may, too, remain behind the scenes for early adopters and innovators to learn how to harness.

VenuesNow Conference takes place Sept. 29-30 at the Sheraton Grand Seattle. Produced by Pollstar and presented by Marsh and Oracle, VNC brings together live entertainment, sports, and venue executives to address the industry’s most critical operational, financial, and strategic dynamics.

VNC 2026 follows the inaugural Secure Venues Summit on Sept. 28 at the Sheraton Grand Seattle, which is being launched by Oak View Group & Prevent Advisors. The event is programmed specifically for safety, risk management, and venue operations leaders, and will feature a Keynote address on the “State of Security in America: Trends, Evolution, and Adversaries in Preparation for the 2028 Olympics in LA” by Voviette D. Morgan (SVP, Safety & Security, LA 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games) .

To register for the VenuesNow Conference 2026 or the Secure Venues Summit, visit venuesnowconference.com and securevenuessummit.com .

_Originally reported by [Pollstar](https://news.pollstar.com/2026/09/25/vnc-panel-preview-integrating-ai-into-your-venue/)._