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Biography

Brian D. Avery is a Lecturer and the Director of Engaged Learning and Outreach for the University of Florida Department of Sport Management. For nearly 30 years, Brian has been working in the events, venues, and attractions industry. 

Brian’s career began on the frontlines of the industry working as a midway operator at Boardwalk and Baseball amusement park at the age of fourteen. After his work on the midday and college, Brian went on to be a manager for five restaurants on property at Universal Studios in Orlando, Florida. He cultivated knowledge in the importance of providing excellent customer service and delivering a safe and enjoyable guest experience. 

Following his work in the food and beverage industry, Brian went on to work as a safety specialist for SeaWorld and Discovery Cove, where he developed and managed safety training programs for employees and conducted guest accident investigations and park-wide inspections of facilities and attractions.

After spending some time in the parks, Avery joined GES Exposition Services—a trade show installation company, where his safety management expertise was tested and essential in New Orleans post-Katrina tradeshow recovery efforts. Since then, Brain has had ownership stakes in several venue and event management companies, employing over 400 people strong. 

In addition to Brian’s many business activities, Brian has spent numerous years learning his trade… not only as a practitioner but as an academic. 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, a Master of Science in Hospitality and Tourism Management and has completed his coursework for a PhD in Hospitality Education. 

Prior to working at the University of Florida, Brian ardently developed talent, by instructing and mentoring students from the Rosen College of Hospitality Management at the University of Central Florida, where he was an instructor for nearly a decade. Brian has continued his academic efforts at the University of Florida as a lecturer and the Director of Engaged Learning and Outreach for the department of Sport Management. 

Research interests: 

• Event, venue, and attraction management
• Event, venue, and attraction risk and safety management
• Event, venue, and attraction regulations, standards, and practices
• Event design and execution
• Amusement ride and device safety

Courses: 

SPM 4724 Risk Management in Live Entertainment & Sport

SPM 4905 Legal Aspects in Live Entertainment & Sport 

SPM 4905 Live Entertainment Production

SPM 6905 Advanced Issues & Applications in Risk Management 

SPM 6905 Operational Aspects of Sports