Sunny Orlando, Florida, is more than just the place for rest, relaxation, and entertainment. It now ranks No. 2 in the top 20 places for technology employment, with the Computing Technology Industry Association’s 2025 State of the Tech Workforce report finding that the city added 1,780 technology jobs last year. It’s clear why not only IBM hosted TechXchange here, but also why SHARE Orlando (February 22-26) is about to make a splash in 2026, unveiling its focus on providing members with key learning outcomes.
In February, Orlando’s weather will bring summer to mind: a perfect time for SHARE members to soak up education and networking opportunities with a side of distraction at the city’s best venues.
Technology Behind the Magic
The Rosen Center is just minutes away from other theme parks, and there’s a shuttle that takes you directly to Universal Studios Florida, the home of Minions, Jurassic Park, Marvel Superhero Island, and Harry Potter. As February often calls to mind Mardi Gras, there’s no need to travel to New Orleans when Universal Studios offers the international flavors of carnaval with beads, floats, outrageous performances and costumes, and dance music.
At Disney World, new technology has helped enhance attendees’ experiences from the use of MagicBands that utilize artificial intelligence and machine learning to personalize each guest’s stay to new immersive environments.
Feel the Magic, Live the Tech
Venture about an hour away from Orlando to Merritt Island and the Kennedy Space Center to learn about the rich and deep history of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). From the early space program to speaking with an astronaut, there’s a lot to explore. And don’t forget to enjoy the Rocket Garden. If you’re feeling like a snack after your stint in space, travel back to Kissimmee for the Abracadabra Ice Cream Factory’s liquid nitrogen-frozen ice cream.
The Museum of Illusions on International Drive is where you can defy the laws of gravity or shrink to a miniature size. The Sea Life Orlando Aquarium will allow you to reconnect with nature and relax with its 360-degree underwater tunnel. SHARE members can watch sharks and rays or reach out and touch starfish and anemones.
Fuel Your Education
It takes a lot of energy to learn about the latest technology, but there are plenty of dining venues available:
Looking for a little fun, check out the Player 1 Video Game Bar. Just 14 minutes by car from the Rosen Center, the bar offers themed beverages and snacks — Donkey Kong and Itsa Me, Mario! Mozzarella Sticks — and video games for every generation.
Sometimes a chocolate pick-me-up is all you need to get back into the swing of things. The Chocolate Kingdom has that sugary rush and gifts you need, all wrapped up with a behind-the-scenes tour.
Don’t forget that the Kia Center is about 20 minutes from the Rosen Center and is home to music and sporting events, including a hockey game between the Orlando Solar Bears and the Florida Everblades on Feb. 22, 2026, and a basketball game between the Houston Rockets and Orlando Magic on Feb. 26, 2026.
Orlando offers more than just adventure. It’s a hub for innovation, collaboration, and professional growth. Become a member today. As an individual member and gain exclusive access to our comprehensive SHARE’d Knowledge learning platform for year-round educational programming designed for mainframers. Connect with fellow professionals, share insights, and explore new ideas.
Register now for SHARE Orlando (Feb. 22-26), a one-of-a-kind experience that blends inspiration, education, and networking in an unforgettable setting.