Session 01: Ballpark Design Evolution
This panel discussion will analyze the history and evolution of ballpark design, discussing future trends and how the next generation of ballparks around the world is emerging.
Moderator:
Brett Wightman | Senior Principal & Global Director, Populous
Panellists:
David Cromwell | Executive Vice President, and Chief Operations Officer, Chicago Cubs
David joined the Cubs in 2018 as senior VP of operations and became executive VP and COO in 2024. He oversees Wrigley Field Campus operations, including event services and safety. Prior to the Cubs, he spent 20 years at SeaWorld, most recently as park president of Busch Gardens and Water Country USA in Virginia. He holds an MBA from San Diego State.
Akinori Iwamura | Former Major League Baseball Player/ Chairman of the Board of Directors, Fukushima Red Hopes
A former MLB player who also excelled in Japanese professional baseball, contributing to the first WBC victory and the Tampa Bay Devil Rays' League Championship. After retiring, he led the Fukushima Hopes as a player-manager to a district championship. He will share insights on the appeal of ballparks in Japan and the U.S.
Ichiro Shinohara | Specially Appointed Professor, Faculty of Sports and Health Science, Juntendo University
An expert who continues to contribute to the development of the baseball world as a sustaining member of the Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum and an official scorer for the Tokyo Big6 Baseball League.
Byron Chambers | Senior Principal & Head of Baseball Design, Americas, Populous
Byron Chambers brings over two decades of sports design leadership and experience delivering spaces dedicated to enhancing athlete performance and the game day experiences.