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Great Lakes Park Trraining Institute logo

Practical and innovative training for park professionals at all levels

A group of people standing around a swing set on a park playground

Program

The Great Lakes Park Training Institute, held February 24-27, 2025, is an annual conference that explores current issues and techniques in parks, provides networking opportunities, and recognizes outstanding projects and individuals at the annual awards dinner. Industry leaders provide practical, hands-on training along four tracks: Natural and Cultural Interpretation, Natural Resource Management, Park and Facilities Maintenance, and Personnel and Career Development. 

Sponsorship

The Eppley Center for Parks and Public Lands sponsors The Great Lakes Park Training Institute along with numerous partners in the industry. We collaborate with parks departments, planners, and vendors to provide Institute attendees with the most impactful learning and social experiences possible.

Eppley Center for Parks and Public Lands logo
A row of Great Lakes Park, Facility, and Recreation Program Award trophies

Awards

GLPTI presents the Great Lakes Park, Facility, or Program Awards and the Lawson Award at the Institute’s Annual Awards Dinner and Ceremony to recognize cutting-edge projects in the leisure movement and individuals who make significant contributions to the parks and recreation profession.

Scholarships

Garrett G. Eppley Scholarships are awarded annually to help park professionals attend the conference and advance their careers.

A display holding rows of GLPTI proceeding records from previous years

GLPTI sponsored by:

Lake James Sponsor: Midstates Recreation

In-Person and Online Conference, CEUs, Awards Ceremony, & Networking