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2026 ISBE Career Connections Conference, May 6, 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m., Bone Student Center at Illinois State University, Normal

The Illinois State Board of Education Career Connections Conference enables educators to learn from and collaborate with their peers from across Illinois. At the ISBE Career Connections Conference, CTE educators exchange ideas, share best practices, and foster meaningful connections that contribute to more opportunities and deeper learning for all students.

This year’s theme, "Ignite Learning: Spark Success in CTE​," promises engaging discussions, networking with CTE leaders, and innovative strategies to empower students and strengthen our communities. Join the movement enhancing Illinois's education and workforce systems. Save the date and help us prepare the next generation to reach their potential.​

Call for Proposals

Share your expertise and innovative practices at the ISBE Career Connections Conference. We’re seeking dynamic presentations that highlight strategies, resources, and success stories supporting career readiness and technical education across Illinois. ​

Submit your proposal today to inspire and connect with educators, administrators, and industry partners from across the state.

2026 Call for Proposals Form

Submission Deadline: January 15, 2026​

Exhibitors

Join us as an exhibitor at the 2025 Career Connections Conference, hosted by the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE)! Exhibitor registration is $850 and includes a 6-foot table, two chairs, two conference registrations, and WiFi access.

All exhibitors will be featured during the 60-minute Poster Walk and Vendor Showcase, giving you dedicated time to connect with attendees, share resources, and highlight your organization’s impact.

2026 Vendor Interest Form

Submission Deadline: January 15, 2026

Poster Sessions

New this year! The Poster Session is an engaging 60-minute session that allows educators, students, and industry professionals to showcase best practices, classroom projects, research, and success stories in Career and Technical Education (CTE). Presenters will have the opportunity to connect one-on-one with attendees, exchange ideas, and inspire others with creative approaches that advance CTE. For more information, view the following document: Poster Session InformationPDF Document.

2026 Poster Session Interest Form

Poster Session Interest Forms are due January 15, 2026. Poster participants will be notified of approval and acceptance by the week of March 23, 2026.​​

Program

  • May 6 - Conference
    • Agenda
      • 8:00 am - 9:00 am - Breakfast and Registration
      • 9:00 am  - 9:15 am - Welcome & Opening Remarks
      • 9:20 am - 10:05 am - Breakout Session 1
      • 10:15 am - 11:00 am - Breakout Session 2
      • 11:10 am - 11:55 am - Breakout Session 3​
      • 12:10 pm - 12:40 pm - Lunch and Networking
      • 12:40 pm - 1:40 pm - Poster Walk and Vendor Showcase
      • 1:50 pm - 2:35 pm - Breakout Session 4
      • 2:45 pm - 3:30 pm - Breakout Session 5

More information coming soon!

Registration

Registration will open in early 2026.​

Travel

A number of rooms will be held for conference attendees at a nearby hotel. 

More information is coming soon.

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Contact Information