Ken Handler, President of Global Management Amusement Professionals (GMAP), has been a leading force in the amusement and waterpark industry for over 35 years. As both a respected consultant and proud owner of Raging Rivers Waterpark and Splash City Adventures, Handler brings unmatched expertise and a proven track record of driving millions in revenue and welcoming millions of guests to parks across the U.S. and internationally. With consulting experience spanning over 100 waterparks worldwide, Handler is known for his results-driven approach to full-park operations, customer service, and revenue optimization. He has mentored ownership groups, general managers, and department leads on every facet of operations—from front gate to food service, attractions, safety, staffing, and guest experience. His innovative strategies, deep industry knowledge, and commitment to leadership development set him apart—and have earned the admiration of operators, owners, and industry leaders alike. Through GMAP, Handler has successfully designed and developed food and beverage programs and restaurant concepts for premier parks such as Wild Rivers Waterpark, H2OBX, OWA Tropical Falls, and Gulf Islands Waterpark. His operational guidance and leadership mentoring have also been instrumental at Magic Springs Theme Park, Wahoo’s Family Entertainment Center, Ocean City Waterpark, Zoom Flume, Chicago Waterparks, Nona Adventure Park, and Wet N’ Wild Waterworld. Handler has held executive and leadership roles at many of California’s top waterparks and theme parks. His national reputation as a revenue consultant is backed by decades of hands-on experience in full-park management. He continues to assist municipalities and private operators in launching, revitalizing, and optimizing amusement facilities that deliver memorable, safe, and profitable guest experiences. A frequent speaker and award winner, Handler has been recognized by the World Waterpark Association (WWA) for excellence in marketing, programming, and innovation. He currently serves on the WWA Food & Beverage Committee and previously chaired the Technology & Innovations Committee. Handler remains passionate about opening new parks, reviving legacy attractions, and mentoring the next generation of leaders in the amusement industry. His dedication to excellence and operational integrity has impacted millions of guests—and continues to shape the future of waterpark entertainment.
