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ISBE Career Connections Conference June 16-17, 2025, Tinley Park Convention Center

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, "The Path to Peak Performance 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.

Don’t miss an update about registration, calls for proposals, featured speakers, and more- sign up for the ISBE Career Connections Conference​ email list.  For information on CTE happenings throughout the state, subscribe to the ISBE CTE Newsletter

 Registration - Now Open

Registration is now open for the 2025 ISBE Career Connections Conference. - Register Now!

Rate Amount
Early-bird (no later than April 15, 2025) $60.00
Group (5 or more from the same school district, community college, or other organization) $50.00 each
Regular (April 16 - June 10, 2025) $75.00
Pre-Conference (1-4pm on June 16, 2025) $25.00​

 Call for Proposals - Closed

The Call for Proposals for the 2025 ISBE Career Connections Conference is closed.

This year's conference needs your innovative ideas, research, and practices. Whether through workshops, panels, or presentations, your contributions can inspire and drive the future of CTE. Don't miss this chance to shape the conversation. We can't wait to see all your great ideas! Exhibitors (limited spots available) and attendees are welcome to participate.

Call for Proposals Submission Form - closed.​​

 Keynote Speaker

Eddie Slowikowski

Eddie Slowikowski is a former world-class runner and USA Track & Field Team Gold Medalist. He broke the 4-minute mile, recording a time of 3:58, achieved 3-time Division 1 NCAA All-American status, and won the National Catholic Cross-Country Championship twice during his time at Loyola University, Chicago. He is a renowned speaker, consultant, and author, as well as an Inspired Performance Expert. His Four Minute Formula has helped countless individuals achieve excellence. Eddie's dynamic presentations engage and inspire audiences with a blend of emotion, humor, and insight that showcases his nearly 30 years of experience in motivating people.

 Agenda

June 16

  • 1 - 4 pm: Pre-Conference Sessions (Registration required) ​

June 17

  • 7:30 AM Open Registration & Continental Breakfast
  • 8:30 AM Welcome and Keynote Speaker
  • 10:20 AM Breakout Session
  • 11:10 AM Lunch
  • 12:10 PM Breakout Session
  • 1:10 PM Breakout Session
  • 2:00 PM Vendor Showcase and Networking
  • 2:40 PM Breakout Session
  • 3:30 PM End of Conference​​

 Exhibitors - Open through March 15, 2025

Exhibit Interest Forms for the 2025 ISBE Career Connections Conference are being accepted.

On June 17th, vendors, professional organizations, and career technical student organizations can exhibit in a high-traffic area at the ISBE Career Connections Conference, offering a prime space for speaking with Illinois CTE practitioners and administrators. (The pre-conference is held on June 16. Vendors will not be set up on that day). We'll provide participants with additional information, including a personalized communication toolkit complete with social media copy and materials to help maximize outreach and engage with the conference attendees. Don't miss this opportunity for:

  • Visibility: Gain exposure among CTE teachers, administrators, and decision-makers.
  • Networking: Collaborate with peers, share insights, and build meaningful connections.
  • Marketing: Showcase your work in the lobby of the Tinley Park Convention Center.

Complete the Exhibitor Interest Form open through March 15, 2025.

Cost: $850

Registration Includes:

  • 1 tabletop display
  • (1) 6-foot skirted table
  • 2 chairs
  • 2 wastebaskets
  • Wifi access
  • Access to electricity and power strip
  • Up to 2 included registrations for those working the exhibit booth.
  • Opportunity to demonstrate your product, service, or organization in a breakout session. Complete the Call for Proposal Form by January 15, 2025. Limited spots available.

A second table can be reserved for a total of $1500.

For more information and to share with others, view the Exhibi​tor FlyerPDF Document.​​​​

 Travel

The conference will be held at the Tinley Park Convention Center in Tinley Park, Illinois.

18451 Convention Center Dr, Tinley Park, IL 60477

More information on accommodations will be available soon.​​​

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