There is definitely a lot to know about how to make the most of your first NATA conference. There will be several ways for you to learn more about the event before getting on a plane.

Be sure to start with reviewing the FAQ's listed below.

All first-time attendees are assigned a Conference Buddy. Your buddy will contact you to check in before the event, accompany you to the first-timer's reception, answer questions you may have, and introduce you to other NATA members. Don't be afraid to reach out to your buddy once you are matched, and don't be afraid to let staff know if your buddy is not a good match for you so we can find you another buddy that it is a better fit.

Before your buddy is assigned, you'll also be invited to attend a virtual informational session about the conference, where all your questions will be answered. We hope to see you there!

For more information, including testimonials from other first-time attendees, visit the First-Timer page.

The general dress code for the conference is business casual. Most attendees dress as if they were in their office. Many people will wear cocktail attire for the Wednesday night gala, where we will install NATA’s next president. Please remember that the desert cools at night and many events are outdoors—layers are highly recommended. And of course, bring your sun protection for daytime.

Scholarships for conference registration fees and hotel costs are available for Regular NATA members.

To apply, complete and submit the Scholarship Request form (coming soon) before registering for the conference. 

The scholarship committee will review all applications on a rolling basis as they are received. Applications will be accepted and reviewed until the August 15, 2025 deadline or until all scholarship funds are awarded, whichever comes first. If awarded, follow up instructions will be provided for registering for the event and reserving a room.

You are welcome to bring partners, friends, or other guests along to enjoy all that our host city has to offer! 

Only paid conference registrants may attend the conference educational programming and meals during the day.

Guests may attend off-site events by purchasing a ticket for each event at least 2 weeks prior to the start of the conference but may not partake in lunches or breakfasts provided for conference attendees.

Know someone who’s not a NATA member but wants to attend the conference? Non-member registration is available!

The event begins on Monday afternoon with a first-timer's reception and opening banquet and wraps up on Thursday evening. You'll want to arrive in our host city on Monday morning or afternoon and plan to depart Friday morning.

First-Timers may have specific events tailored to them. Check out the First-Timers Information page for more details.

A preliminary schedule of events will be published when registration opens. The Program page (coming soon) will be updated on a regular basis to provide the most up to date information as the conference planning team continues to confirm presenters and finalize the event details.

Once you have registered to attend NATA's Annual Conference, you will receive a confirmation email with a link to use to book your hotel room in NATA's discounted room block.

Please see the Travel & Hotel page for information about the venue.

To get to Tucson, most travelers fly into Tucson International Airport.

There is no hotel shuttle available, so you'll need to arrange to get from the airport to the hotel, which is about a 40-minute drive. The easiest options are Uber or Lyft.

Located about 114 miles away, Phoenix Sky Habor International Airport is another option and rental car service is available.

For more information about local transportation options, visit the hotel's FAQ page in the "General Section".

In the fall, all Conference Attendees will receive an invitation to join our Conference App "Whova". NATA Members will have the ability to join a conversation channel where they can express an interest in sharing rides. 

Plan to arrive by early afternoon on Monday, November 17 and depart on Friday, November 21 to experience the full schedule of conference events and activities.

All meals are included with conference registration except for the Tuesday NATA Connect- Dinner Edition. 

Meals will be kosher-style with vegetarian/vegan options available. You will be able to indicate any food allergies upon registration. We will do our very best to accommodate.