The 2026 ISBE Career Connections Conference gathers CTE educators, administrators, counselors, and industry and community partners from across Illinois to collaborate, learn, and network. The conference provides a forum to exchange ideas, share best practices, and strengthen career and technical education, all geared toward creating greater opportunity and success for students.
Why Attend
- Learn and Grow as Educators. Attend sessions and workshops that cover curriculum design, instruction, educator growth, career readiness, and policy-to-practice strategies.
- Share What Works. The conference includes a Poster Session where educators, students, and industry partners can showcase successful CTE programs, classroom projects, research, and student achievement. This offers a chance to inspire peers and highlight your district or school’s work.
- Explore Resources and Tools. Visit exhibitor booths during the Vendor Showcase to see equipment, curricula, and services designed to support CTE programs. It is a chance to evaluate and plan resources that align with your students’ career pathways.
- Build Your Network. Connect with fellow educators, administrators, postsecondary partners, and industry representatives from across Illinois to develop collaborations and share insights.
What to Expect
- Pre-Conference Activities (May 5, 2026). A pre-conference session designed to prepare attendees and provide early engagement.
- Main Conference Day (May 6, 2026)”
- Morning: Registration, welcome remarks, and the first set of breakout sessions.
- Midday: Lunch followed by the Poster Walk and Vendor Showcase, where participants can view showcases and connect with exhibitors.
- Afternoon: More breakout sessions covering different aspects of CTE — including instructional strategies, program development, workforce connections, equity, and student supports.
Who Should Attend
- Secondary and postsecondary CTE instructors and administrators
- School counselors and career or college readiness coordinators
- Curriculum planners and program developers
- Industry partners, employers, and vendors interested in supporting CTE initiatives
- Education policymakers and community‐based organizations invested in career readiness and workforce development.
Registration and Participation
Registration for the 2026 conference will open in early 2026. The event will include opportunities to submit proposals for sessions or poster presentations. Vendors and exhibitors interested in showcasing tools or services can register for vendor space — including a table and conference access.
Why This Matters
The ISBE Career Connections Conference is a vital gathering that supports growth and collaboration across Illinois’ CTE community. Attendees will leave with new ideas, connections, and strategies to strengthen career and technical education, expand student opportunity, and build more substantial alignment between education and workforce needs.
