Drake Ventures Update Schools provide tax professionals with essential training on the latest software features and tax law changes to enhance efficiency, accuracy, and compliance. Led by Warren Drake—an industry veteran with over 40 years of experience—these sessions offer trusted instruction from someone who knows the tax profession inside and out.
Get the latest updates about drake software
Staying current with the latest Drake Software updates is crucial for tax professionals. Keeping up with new features and enhancements ensures proficiency, streamlines workflows, and minimizes errors. Updated knowledge helps comply with changing tax laws, boosting efficiency and productivity. Attending update schools offers hands-on experience, expert insights, and networking opportunities. Embracing these updates significantly enhances professional capabilities and client satisfaction.
Meet Our Instructor
President and CEO / Drake Ventures, Inc.
WARREN DRAKE
Warren Drake has been in the middle of the tax industry for over 40 years. As a young man starting out in his career, Warren worked in his father’s tax practice where he learned the complexity of the tax code, processing thousands of returns before the advent of computers.
In 1977, Phil Drake (Warren’s brother) started writing code for a tax software program in an attempt to automate the tax business for their father. Warren quickly became involved in writing computer code as well, and at the beginning of the computer age, we find the beginnings of one of the most successful Tax Software companies in the country, Drake Software.
Over the past four decades, Warren has participated in the development of the software and the development of the content for much of the instructional material for Drake Software tax professionals. Warren has been the company’s lead instructor, conducting live classroom training, sales presentations and presiding over the annual Update School to inform Drake Software clients about upcoming changes in the tax software and the Tax code for the coming year.
Warren is a very successful entrepreneur who has taken the same standard of excellence in instruction to his customers. He knows the tax industry and his customers appreciate his tireless dedication to communicating the intricacies of the professional tax practice from substance to practical application.
Warren lives in Franklin, NC with a love for family, music and the mountains. Warren is actively involved in the music business not only as a performer, but in the role as a producer of music and music videos, nurturing talented individuals and groups in their state of the art recording studio.
Let’s do it!
Haven't reserved your seat yet? Register Today!
Register for Drake Ventures Update Schools now to stay ahead of critical tax law changes and software updates, ensuring your practice remains efficient and compliant.
Our 2025
event schedule
The Drake Ventures Update Schools offer comprehensive courses on the latest tax software updates and regulations, with events scheduled in Cleveland, Columbus, and Cincinnati, OH, as well as Memphis, and Pigeon Forge, TN.
Day 1
Early Registration:*
$275
1st person from your firm
$265
Each additional
person
*$295 per person after early-bird deadline
Early Registration must be received at Drake 2 weeks prior to the event.
Includes:
- Continental Breakfast
- Breaks
- Plus Lunch
- REGISTRATION & CONTINENTAL BREAKFAST
Start your day at the Drake Ventures Update School with a seamless registration process, where you will be checked-in and receive your event materials and schedule. Following registration, Enjoy pastries, fresh fruit, coffee, and juices while networking with fellow tax professionals before the sessions begin.
- 7:45 - 8:20 AM
Session 1:
- ETHICS
In an ever-evolving landscape of tax regulations and software advancements, maintaining the highest standards of ethical behavior is paramount. This course, "Ethics," is designed for professionals who utilize Drake Software and aim to uphold integrity and ethical principles in their practice.
- 8:20 - 10:00 AM
- Earn 2 CPE Hours
Warren Drake
Host & Teacher
- BREAK
Enjoy refreshments, network, relax, and engage in informal Q&A with trainers in a relaxed atmosphere.
- 10:00 - 10:20 AM
Session 2:
- AI - In Depth for Practitioners
AI is already changing how we work every day. In this session, we’ll take a practical look at how tax professionals can use it to save time, reduce errors, and serve clients more efficiently. We’ll cut through the hype, share real examples, and talk about what to keep in mind as we start bringing AI into our daily routines.
- 10:20 - 11:10 AM
- Earn 2 CPE Hours
Warren Drake
Host & Teacher
- LUNCH BREAK
Lunch Break featuring a delicious, catered lunch
- Noon - 1:00 PM
Session 3:
- Industry Update
Get the latest insights on trends and developments in the tax industry to stay ahead and enhance your professional knowledge.
- 1:00 - 2:30
- Earn 4 CPE Hours
Warren Drake
Host & Teacher
- BREAK
Enjoy refreshments, network, relax, and engage in informal Q&A with trainers in a relaxed atmosphere.
- 2:30 - 2:45 PM
Session 3:
- Industry Update
(continued...)
Get the latest insights on trends and developments in the tax industry to stay ahead and enhance your professional knowledge.
- 2:45 - 5:00 PM
Warren Drake
Host & Teacher
Day 2
Early Registration:*
$275
1st person from your firm
$265
Each additional
person
*$295 per person after early-bird deadline
Early Registration must be received at Drake 2 weeks prior to the event.
Includes:
- Continental Breakfast
- Breaks
- Plus Lunch
- REGISTRATION & CONTINENTAL BREAKFAST
Start your day at the Drake Ventures Update School with a seamless registration process, where you will be checked-in and receive your event materials and schedule. Following registration, Enjoy pastries, fresh fruit, coffee, and juices while networking with fellow tax professionals before the sessions begin.
- 7:45 - 8:20 AM
Session 1:
- TAX UPDATE
Stay informed on the latest tax law changes and software enhancements to ensure accurate and efficient tax preparation.
- 8:20 - 10:00 AM
- Earn 4 CPE Hours
Warren Drake
Host & Teacher
- BREAK
Enjoy refreshments, network, relax, and engage in informal Q&A with trainers in a relaxed atmosphere.
- 10:00 - 10:20 AM
Session 1:
- TAX UPDATE
(continued...)
Stay informed on the latest tax law changes and software enhancements to ensure accurate and efficient tax preparation.
- 10:20 - Noon
Warren Drake
Host & Teacher
- LUNCH BREAK
Lunch Break featuring a delicious, catered lunch
- Noon - 1:00 PM
Session 2:
- A Day In The Life
Gain practical insights into the daily use of Drake Software, covering essential tasks and advanced features to enhance your efficiency and expertise.
- 1:00 - 2:30 Noon
- Earn 4 CPE Hours
Warren Drake
Host & Teacher
- BREAK
Enjoy refreshments, network, relax, and engage in informal Q&A with trainers in a relaxed atmosphere.
- 2:30 - 2:45 PM
Session 2:
- A Day In The Life
(continued...)
Gain practical insights into the daily use of Drake Software, covering essential tasks and advanced features to enhance your efficiency and expertise.
- 2:45 - 5:00 PM
Warren Drake
Host & Teacher
2025 Update School Tour
cities and dates
Tulsa, OK
Sat. / Sun., December 6 & 7
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Tulsa-Warren Place
6110 S. Yale Avenue,
Tulsa, OK 74136
hilton.com
(918) 495-1000
Oklahoma City, OK
Mon. / Tues., December 8 & 9
Holiday Inn & Suites Oklahoma City North
6200 North Robinson Avenue,
Oklahoma City, OK 73118
ihg.com
(405) 286-4777
Wichita, KS
Thurs. / Fri., December 4 & 5
Holiday Inn
Wichita East I-35
549 South Rock Road,
Wichita, KS 67207
ihg.com
(316) 686-7131
Saint Louis, MO
Thurs. / Fri., December 27 & 28
Holiday Inn
St Louis SW – Route 66
10709 Watson Road,
Saint Louis, MO 63127
ihg.com
(314) 821-6600
Memphis, TN
Mon. / Tues., December 8 & 9
Holiday Inn Southhaven Central – Memphis
280 Marathon Way
Southaven, MS 38671
ihg.com
(662) 349-0444
Columbus, OH
Fri. / Sat., December 12 & 13
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Columbus / Dublin
600 Metro Place North,
Dublin, OH 43017
hilton.com
(614) 956-3400
Toledo, OH
Mon. / Tues., December 15 & 16
Holiday Inn & Suites Toledo Southwest – Perrysburg
27355 Carronade Dr
Perrysburg, OH 43551
ihg.com
(567) 331-8900
Cincinnati, OH
Wed. / Thurs., December 17 & 18
Radison Hotel Cincinnati Riverfront
C I N C I N N A T I | N K Y
Thank you for making your Group Accommodations with us. We look forward to hosting you here in Covington, Kentucky.
GO TO: https://www.choicehotels.com/kentucky/covington/radisson-hotels/ky029
• At the top of the page Click On: GROUPS
• Scroll down a bit to the area: “Start Planning Your Event”
• ENTER THIS CODE INTO THE BOX Called Group Code: JJ32U6
• Click SUBMIT; then complete your Reservation.
This has been established for your specific Group.
Please make sure to read carefully for explanation of room types, Cancellation Policy and any additional charges applicable to your stay. With Group Rates there will be specific cut-off dates. If you have any questions on these dates, please contact your group organizer.
668 W 5th St
Covington, KY 41011
RadissonHotels.com
(859) 491-1200
Cleveland, OH
Fri. / Sat., December 19 & 20
Holiday Inn Cleveland –
S. Independence
6001 Rockside Rd
Independence, OH 44131
ihg.com
(216) 524-8050
Pigeon Forge, TN
Mon. / Tues., December 29 & 30
Hotel & Convention Center
3230 Parkway Drive,
Pigeon Forge TN 37863
myramseyhotel.com
(865) 428-2700
introducing
purchase
protection
At Drake Ventures, we’re excited to introduce Purchase Protection to better serve our registrants during the 2025 Update School Tour. Purchase Protection is not an insurance policy; rather, it’s a service that ensures that you receive a full refund of your event fees if unforeseen circumstances, such as death, health emergencies, crime, transportation failures, and more, prevent them from attending. Just remember to add the Purchase Protection option at check-out and you’re covered!
F.A.Q
Here is a small list of commonly asked questions. For more information and to see the full terms and conditions, please view them at registration checkout.
No, registrants must enroll in Purchase Protection at the time of registration and cannot be upgraded later.
Registrants who have a valid claim must submit their claim within 48 hour after the event occurs.
No, Purchase Protection is only offered to registrants who pay with credit card payments.
No, Purchase Protection is only available to registrants with a completed status at the time they submit their order.
Still have questions?
UPDATE SCHOOL FAQ
Drake Software is here to assist you. Here are some frequently asked questions to help you feel confident about registering.
Popular Questions
The Update Schools provide training on the latest software features and tax law changes to ensure tax professionals are up-to-date and compliant.
Tax professionals, preparers, and accountants looking to enhance their software proficiency and stay informed about the latest tax regulations.
8 on each day, for a total of 16 available credits
Yes, to ensure a quality experience, each session may have a limited number of seats, so early registration is encouraged.
Refund requests must be sent in writing to Drake Ventures Education via mail, fax, or e-mail. Refunds will not be granted by phone. Drake will make a full refund for any request received 10 business days before the scheduled start of any school. Any cancellation received 5-9 business days prior to start will receive a 50% refund. No refunds on cancellations less than 5 days before the scheduled start of a school. Videos cannot be substituted for a school cancellation. For more information regarding the refund policy, administrative policies, and complaint resolution, please contact our office at (828) 633-3122 or email Schools@Drake.us. All registrations paid by card will be subject to processing fees of 99 cents per registrant and a 2.99% Card processing fee. For checks and cash payments, this fee is waived.
While there are no formal prerequisites, a basic understanding of Drake Software and tax preparation is recommended.
Ronda and Warren have been doing these for a very long time. Adding that many cities last year was far more “taxing” than they anticipated. Scaling it back this year was just prudent.
Catering costs have skyrocketed. We are raising our price modestly this year, but less than our catering costs have risen. We want this to be as affordable as possible for all of you to be there!
YES! If you bring the barcode in your confirmation page or email, it makes registration SO much faster when you arrive!
There are many changes that occur late in the year. We always want to bring you the latest and most pertinent information available. There are many topics to choose from, but we want the best ones for you. We will be making that decision VERY soon.
We are inviting many vendors – and there will be lots of time allotted for you to visit them. We encourage it. They are carefully selected to be the vendors who provide the most significant value to you. You will enjoy meeting them!
That’s the plan! 🙂 At all locations!