Find Your People at PLA 2027

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There’s something special about being in a room full of people who just get it.

If you’ve ever walked into a convention wondering, “Do I really belong here?” — we get it.

But at PLA, you’ll find people who understand why public lands matter. People who care deeply about the places they serve. People who are generous with their knowledge, quick to share an idea, and always happy to make room at the table.

You’ll meet seasoned professionals and first-time attendees. Nonprofit leaders and agency partners. People who can teach you something new, and people who are just as excited to hear your insights.

And yes, you’ll have a lot of fun along the way.

But don't just take our word for it. The numbers tell a story.

You won’t be the only first-timer.

37% of PLA attendees are attending their first PLA Convention & Trade Show.

That means more than one in three people arrive at PLA for the first time—alongside attendees who have been coming back year after year.

37% — First-time attendees
22% — Attended 2–3 conventions
13% — Attended 4–5 conventions
28% — Attended 6+ conventions

Whether it’s your first PLA or your sixth, there’s a place for you here.

You’ll leave with new connections.

Half of PLA attendees make 1–5 new professional connections at the convention. Another 32% make 6–10.

And 18% make 10 or more.

Those connections can become collaborators, mentors, friends, or the person you call when you need to know how another public lands nonprofit tackled a challenge you’re facing.

You’ll meet people who do what you do—and people who don’t.

PLA brings together professionals from across the public lands nonprofit community, with no single job category representing more than 18% of attendees.

You’ll find:

18% Executive Leadership
13% Retail & Visitor Services
12% Board Members
11% Marketing & Development
10% Programs & Education
8% Operations & Administration
+ many more

That diversity is one of PLA’s greatest strengths. You can connect with someone in your exact role, then turn around and learn something completely new from someone working in a different part of the organization.