Dixieland is a home to uplifting and revivalist noises, so the choice of New Orleans as the venue for the 2025 annual gathering of the American Academy of Audiology should have been well starred. But if you remember, when the conference was first set up for this great jazz city, the pandemic intervened. This time round, AAA 2025+HearTECH Expo in New Orleans, Louisiana, again showcased the strength and solidarity of the US audiology community.

With over 3,000 attendees gathering to explore the latest in audiological innovation and connect with peers, the event reaffirmed its status as the a leading gathering for audiologists, students, and hearing and balance care professionals.

 

 

 

 

 

“Compared to past conferences, the energy and engagement in New Orleans was unparalleled, reinforcing the passion and innovation that drives our profession forward.”
– Daniel Romero, Programme Chair.

 

150+ stands at the exhibition 

 

This year’s event offered a dynamic agenda, featuring sessions on a variety of topics—from paediatrics, amplification, vestibular care, and adult diagnostics—to in-depth discussions on recent changes in coding and reimbursement affecting audiology practices. The HearTECH Expo hosted over 150 exhibitor booths, allowing attendees to engage hands-on with the cutting-edge technology shaping the future of hearing-health care.

“AAA 2025 was an incredible milestone for audiology, not just in its size and scope, but in the diversity of ideas and voices represented,” said Programme Chair Daniel Romero. “This year, our programme committee focused on expanding programming in exciting new ways, from dedicated tracks for audiology assistants to showcasing cutting-edge research. Compared to past conferences, the energy and engagement in New Orleans was unparalleled, reinforcing the passion and innovation that drives our profession forward.”

AAA 2025+HearTECH Expo placed a significant focus on developing future leaders in the field through dynamic networking and professional growth opportunities. Attendees took part in new Specialty Group Networking Meet-Ups, the New Professionals Networking Meet-Up (sponsored by Kaiser Permanente), the Celebrate Audiology Reception (sponsored by Hamilton CapTel), and Audiology’s Night Out at Generations Hall—all designed to spark meaningful conversations and connections.

 

 

 

The power of pausing

 

A highlight of the event was the inspiring keynote address delivered by Nadene Cherry (sponsored by Starkey), a corporate speaker and meditation leader, who emphasised the importance of taking intentional pauses for professional success.

The Grand Rounds feature made a strong return, covering key topics such as cochlear implants and vestibular care. Additionally, Daisy Kent – an influencer and former star contestant on the US TV show The Bachelor – shared her personal story of life with a cochlear implant in a moving presentation. The popular Beyond the Booth series also returned, offering valuable insights into career development and leadership for professionals at every stage.

 

 

A grand reunion in The Big Easy

 

More than just a conference, AAA 2025+HearTECH Expo felt like a reunion. Friends, colleagues, and mentors came together for a truly memorable experience. The American Academy of Audiology thanks all of those in attendance including members, exhibitors, and sponsors, and looks forward to another unforgettable conference next year in San Antonio, Texas!

Source: Audiology News UK issue 14 May-June, 2025