International Liquid Terminals Association > Events & Training > 2026 Terminal Operating Practices Symposium (TOPS)
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ILTA Terminal Operating Practices Symposium (TOPS)

The Terminal Operating Practices Symposium (TOPS) is a peer-led educational program created specifically for terminal operators. It provides a candid, collaborative forum for employees of terminal member companies to share firsthand experiences, examine operational challenges, and discuss practices that strengthen facility safety and performance.

Presenters draw on real events involving natural disasters, environmental releases, equipment malfunctions, worker injuries and illnesses, near misses, and other abnormal operating conditions. By examining what happened, how teams responded, and what was learned, attendees gain practical insights they can apply within their own facilities.

Why Attend?

TOPS gives terminal operators opportunities to:

  • Learn directly from peers with firsthand experience managing complex operating events.
  • Explore lessons learned and practices that may help prevent similar incidents.
  • Discuss common challenges in an open, operator-focused setting.
  • Identify practical approaches that can strengthen safety, preparedness, and performance.
  • Build relationships with professionals from other terminal companies.

Each TOPS program combines terminal operator presentations, group discussion, and industry networking.


TOPS 2026

December 8, 2026 | Houston, Texas

The 2026 program will focus on health and safety topics affecting terminal operations. Additional information, including the agenda, venue, and registration details, will be available soon.

Registration benefits:

  1. Access to the Welcome Reception on Monday evening
  2. One full day of programming with terminal operator speakers on Tuesday
  3. Tuesday breakfast and lunch included

Registration: $400.00

Register Now


Make It a Two-Day Event

Join us on December 7 at the Marriott Marquis Houston for Navigating Air Permitting Changes: ILTA’s Gasoline Distribution Rules Course, held the day before TOPS 2026 at the same location.

When registering, select the TOPS 2026 + Gasoline Distribution Rules Course bundle to attend both programs at a discounted rate, available exclusively to ILTA terminal members.


 

Marriott Marquis Houston

1777 Walker St. | Houston, TX 77010

Reservation Method

Attendees may reserve their rooms using the personalized reservation website.

Guests may also make reservations by phone:

  • Marriott Bonvoy Reservations: 1-888-236-2427
  • Marriott Marquis Houston: 713-654-1777

When making a reservation, please reference (ILTA 2026 TOPS Meeting).

Reservation Cut-off Date

Saturday, November 07, 2026

  • Group Rate: $259.00 per night


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Cancellation Policy: All cancellations must be in writing and emailed to info@ilta.org. Substitutions from your organization for the same event are always welcome. Cancellations received by November 10, 2026, will receive a full refund. There will be no refunds for cancellations after the close of business on November 10, 2026. No-shows will not be refunded.