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HowToSpecLogo L
Pleasanton

LIVE EVENT

September 23-25, 2026

Frontier Energy Food Service Tech Center (FSTC)
Pleasanton, Calif. (newly opened)

Foodservice Equipment Reports and the Frontier Energy Food Service Tech Center have partnered on a first-of-its-kind event. This live, hands-on training and networking event brings together:

• Design consultants
• Specifiers
• Operators
• Dealers
• Equipment manufacturers

...all with the goal of improving the specification process across equipment categories. The 2026 categories are fryers, high-speed ovens, ice machines, refrigeration, combi ovens, and induction.

Registration to open in April!

How to Spec attendees include:

Class shot
  • Newer specifiers looking to sharpen their skills
  • Seasoned pros wanting to stay up to date on the latest tech, trends, and challenges
  • Operators who want to understand the "why" behind equipment choices
  • Manufacturers who want their products specified more accurately and more often

Manufacturers will participate through panel discussions that may also include operators and consultants. Sponsoring manufacturers will have the opportunity to demo their equipment.

Why Attend?

Unlike other industry events, How To Spec delivers an education program laser-focused on how to specify equipment. Sessions serve as live versions of FER's signature equipment comparisons from the magazine. Each session answers:

  • What are the equipment benefits?
  • What are the latest technologies in the category?
  • What are the top 5–10 specification tips?
  • What sets makers apart?
  • What are some surprising mistakes made when specifying the equipment?

Agenda

Sept. 23: Opening dinner reception

Sept. 24: Full day of panel discussions & equipment demos, plus group dinner off-site

Sept. 25: Full day of panel discussions & equipment demos

Registration to open April 2026!