ABA CON: Our Inaugural Event Was One for the Books

When we first imagined ABA CON, we asked a bold question:

What would happen if we blended high-quality continuing education with genuine connection, sunshine, laughter, and an all inclusive cruise?

The answer?

Magic.

A Vision Turned Reality

The inaugural ABA CON was more than a conference. It was an experience. ABA professionals showed up ready to learn, ready to grow, and ready to connect as humans first, credentials second.

From the very first gathering, there was an energy in the room that felt different. Name badges quickly became first-name introductions. Conversations that started during afternoon sessions continued at poolside the next day. Ideas sparked over coffee turned into collaborations by dinner.

We didn’t just attend sessions.
We participated.
We reflected.
We shared real stories from real practice.

And the learning? It was rich, practical, and immediately applicable.

Learning by Day

Each day was filled with meaningful ABA education designed to elevate our clinical work and deepen our impact. Attendees engaged in thoughtful discussions, asked honest questions, and leaned into growth.

There was space for:

• Professional reflection

• Networking with intention

• Skill-building conversations

• Big-picture thinking about where our field is heading

The feedback was clear. The content resonated. The environment supported focus without feeling rigid. People felt energized instead of depleted.

And that matters.

Connection by Night

But ABA CON didn’t stop when the sessions ended.

When the sun went down, the fun came up.

There was karaoke that brought out hidden talents and fearless enthusiasm. There were comedy club nights filled with laughter that reminded us not to take ourselves too seriously. There were dance floors where professionals let go of titles and simply moved to the music.

There were beach days under clear skies where conversations flowed as easily as the ocean breeze. Sunny afternoons created space for the kind of connection that only happens when you step away from your usual environment.

This was networking without pressure.
This was community without competition.
This was growth with joy woven in.

The Unexpected Wins

Some of the most powerful moments weren’t scheduled.

They happened:

• In line for coffee

• Walking back from the beach

• During late-night debriefs

• While cheering each other on during karaoke

Attendees shared that they felt seen. Supported. Reignited.

And that was always the goal.

Professional growth should not come at the expense of personal well-being. At ABA CON, we proved that education and enjoyment can coexist beautifully, and that the destination becomes the classroom.

A Community Was Built

What made the inaugural event truly successful was not just the programming or the setting.

It was the people.

Speakers who poured their hearts into their presentations.
Attendees who showed up fully.
New friendships formed across states and agencies.
Future collaborations already in motion.

ABA CON became more than an event. It became a community.

What’s Next?

We are still smiling.

We are just dusting off the sand and catching up on sleep.
But make no mistake. We are already building what’s next.

Our next destination announcement is coming soon.

And if the inaugural ABA CON was any indication, you are going to want to be part of it.

Stay tuned.
The next adventure is loading.

Why BCBAs Should Attend the ABA CON CEU Cruise 2026

Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) are always seeking meaningful ways to grow professionally, recharge personally, and connect with peers. The ABA CON CEU Cruise 2026 offers all of that—and more—onboard one of the world’s most innovative cruise ships. If you’re ready to trade the hotel ballroom for ocean views and CEUs with a sea breeze, here’s why this experience should be on your radar.

⚓ 1. Earn Up to 12 CEUs at Sea

The ABA CON Cruise 2026 provides up to 12 BACB-approved CEUs, including ethics and supervision options. Sessions are designed to be relevant, practical, and inspiring for behavior analysts across settings. Whether you're in private practice, schools, or leadership, these workshops will enhance your practice and meet certification requirements.

🌍 2. Learn in a Stunning, Distraction-Free Setting

You’ll sail aboard Royal Caribbean’s Wonder of the Seas, offering unmatched amenities, gorgeous destinations, and the perfect environment to focus, learn, and relax. CEU sessions are scheduled thoughtfully, leaving you time to explore, unwind, and actually enjoy your professional development.

🤝 3. Build Meaningful Connections

CEU conferences often feel rushed and impersonal. Not here. ABA CON at Sea is built to foster connection and community. You'll have time to engage with speakers, network with peers, and share experiences in a supportive, welcoming environment—over dinner, on the beach, or by the pool.

🎯 4. Designed by a BCBA, for BCBAs

This isn’t just another conference. It’s curated by a Board Certified Behavior Analyst who understands the unique needs and stresses of the field. From the schedule to the content to the vibe, this cruise was created with your well-being, growth, and connection in mind.

🛳️ 5. It’s a Conference. It’s a Vacation. It’s Both.

Bring your partner, family, or friends. Between CEU sessions, you can explore tropical destinations, enjoy world-class dining and entertainment, and even sneak in a nap (remember those?). After years of working hard, you deserve a space that feeds both your professional growth and personal joy.

📅 Event Details:

• Cruise Dates: February 16–20, 2026

• Ship: Royal Caribbean's Wonder of the Seas

• CEUs: Up to 12 CEUs available

• Departure Port: Miami, FL

• Presented by: Voilà Travel Service, LLC

• Guest Presenters: Elissa Johnson Consulting, Colin Guare, Kim Heald, France Fischer Area, Brittnay Duguay, and Matt Cicoria

  Host of The Behavioral Observations Podcast.

📌 Reserve Your Spot Today

Cabins are limited and will sell out! Learn more and secure your spot here:
👉 https://www.goabacon.com/events

🧩 Bonus: You're Supporting the ABA Community

Your participation helps fund future travel opportunities for families with autism and special needs—because everyone deserves access to joyful, supportive travel.

Final Thoughts

The ABA CON CEU Cruise 2026 is more than a training—it’s a movement toward redefining how we support ourselves as BCBAs and RBTS. Join us for a journey that will renew your purpose, expand your skills, and connect you with a community of passionate professionals.

We can’t wait to welcome you aboard.