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About This year’s conference
Why “Careers, Coast to Coast to Coast?”
Across every region of Canada, career colleges are opening doors, building skills, and fueling the workforce that supports our communities from coast to coast to coast. The 2026 NACC National Conference brings this national impact into focus—bringing together leaders, educators, policymakers, and industry partners to explore the future of workforce training and the evolving role of career colleges across the country.
Through engaging discussions, timely insights, and meaningful networking, this event offers a unique opportunity to connect with peers, share perspectives, and help shape the next chapter of Canada’s workforce.
Why Attend
Be part of the national conversation shaping Canada’s workforce. Gain timely insights, share perspectives, and leave with ideas you can put into action right away.
Who Shouldn't Miss It
Career college leaders, educators, policymakers, and industry partners committed to strengthening workforce training and student outcomes across Canada.
What to Expect
Engaging sessions, practical insights, and meaningful connections—alongside curated receptions that create space to connect, celebrate, and enjoy the experience together.
Agenda Highlights
Sunday, October 25
Welcome Reception (6:00 pm)
An opening evening to connect, network, and kick off the conference.
Monday, October 26
Full Day + Evening Reception
A full day of insights and discussion—plus a signature evening reception.
Tuesday, October 27
Morning Sessions + Optional Add-On
Final sessions before adjournment.
Optional PR Masterclass (limited capacity).
The Full Agenda is Here! Click below to see what’s in store for you
Pre-Conference - Sunday, October 25, 2026
| 5:00 – 7:00 PM ET |
Western-Themed Welcome Reception All attendees and exhibitors are invited to join us for a Western-themed Welcome Reception. |
Agenda subject to change
Day one - Monday, October 26, 2026
| Start | End | Item |
| 7:30 AM | Welcome Desk Opens |
|
| 7:30 AM | Morning Fitness Session | |
| 8:00 AM | Exhibit Hall Opens | |
| 8:00 AM | 9:00 AM | Breakfast and Exhibitor Showcase |
| 9:00 AM | 9:10 AM | Welcome and Opening Remarks with Conference Co-Chairs |
| 9:10 AM | 10:00 AM | Addresses from the NACC Board and NACC CEO on Strategic Plans and Priorities |
| 10:00 AM | 10:45 AM | Keynote: Nik Nanos, Nanos Research & Chancellor of Carleton University |
| 10:45 AM | 11:15 AM | Refreshment Break / Sponsor & Exhibitor Showcase |
| 11:15 AM | 12:00 PM | Breakout Sessions |
| 12:00 PM | 1:30 PM | Lunch & Keynote: Higher Education Panel (Languages Canada, Canadian Bureau of Internal Education, and community colleges & universities sector) |
| 2:45 PM | 3:30 PM | Breakout Sessions |
| 3:30 PM | 4:30 PM | Keynote: James Moore, former MP & Minister of Industry with Scott Reid, former Deputy Chief of Staff to PM Martin |
| 4:30 PM | 4:45 PM | Closing Remarks |
| 7:00 PM | Eastern-Themed Reception Begins | |
| 8:00 PM | 9:00 PM | A Special Sing-Along Performance by the Bytown Sea Shanty Collective |
| 9:00 PM | 12:00 AM | Hospitality Suite & Afterparty feat. Zachary Martin Music Sponsored by Generation Marketing |
Please note that the agenda is subject to change. We encourage attendees to check back regularly for the most up-to-date schedule and session information.
Day Two - Tuesday, October 27, 2026
| Start | End | Item |
| 7:30 AM | Welcome Desk Opens | |
| 7:30 AM | Morning Fitness Session | |
| 8:00 AM | Exhibit Hall Opens | |
| 8:00 AM | 9:00 AM | Breakfast Buffet / Sponsor & Exhibitor Showcase |
| 9:00 AM | 10:00 AM | Keynote Speaker: James Stanger, CompTIA, Technology Evangelist |
| 10:00 AM | 11:00 AM | Regional Breakout Sessions |
| 11:00 AM | 12:00 PM | Keynote – Details coming soon! |
Please note that the agenda is subject to change. We encourage attendees to check back regularly for the most up-to-date schedule and session information.
Key Moments You Won’t Want to Miss
October 26, 2026
Keynote Presentation
Nik Nanos, Nanos Research & Chancellor of Carleton University
Insights on Canada’s political and economic landscape, and what it means for workforce development and skills training.
October 26, 2026
Keynote Presentation
Higher Education Panel
Featuring Larissa Bezo, President & CEO, Canadian Bureau for International Education; Gonzalo Peralta, Executive Director, Languages Canada; Jason Dewling, President & Vice-Chancellor of Capilano University, and Representatives from the Public Colleges sector. Moderated by Alex Usher, President, Higher Education Strategy Associates.
This will be a can’t-miss conversation on collaboration, student mobility, and meeting Canada’s workforce needs.
October 26, 2026
Keynote Presentation
The Honourable James Moore, P.C., M.A., Former Minister of Industry
Gain perspective on public policy, economic development, and Canada’s evolving role in global markets from a former federal cabinet minister.
October 26, 2026
Evening Reception Activity
Bytown Sea Shanty Collective
A lively East Coast-inspired kitchen party, featuring the Bytown Sea Shanty Collective and an evening of music, connection, and celebration.
October 27, 2026
Keynote Presentation
James Stanger, Chief Technology Evangelist, CompTIA
A forward-looking perspective on technology, skills demand, and preparing learners for a rapidly evolving digital economy.
October 27, 2026
Optional Conference Add-On
Exclusive PR & Message Strategy Bootcamp
Limited to 25 Participants! Taking place in the afternoon immediately following the conference, this exclusive bootcamp is designed to help senior leaders confidently navigate media interviews, sharpen key messages, and present a unified, professional voice for our sector.
Pricing
Register Early and Save!
NACC Member Rate
$750
Early Bird Rate
Available May 2 – August 1
$850
Regular Rate
Available after August 1
Non-Member Rate
$950
Regular Rate
Available after May 2
Spouse Rate
$350
Access to meals and receptions only. Must be purchased with a Member or Non-Member registration.
NEW FOR 2026: TEAM DISCOUNT
Bring a Colleague (Or Your Whole Team) and Save!
Save $100
on each additional Member Delegate ticket when you register more than 1 attendee. For example: register 2 delegates, save $100. Register 3, save $200!
No maximum. Discount applies automatically at checkout.
Note: All attendees must be registered on the same transaction for discount to apply.
Add-On: Public Relations & Message Strategy Bootcamp
$500
Exclusive Add-On Experience for Members Only
Limited to 25 participants!
Tuesday, October 27 – 1:00-5:00 PM
Downtown Ottawa
This exclusive bootcamp equips senior leaders with the tools to navigate media interviews with confidence, refine clear and compelling key messages, and represent our sector with a cohesive, professional voice.
Accommodations
Your Stay in Ottawa
All conference sessions, workshops, and exhibit space will be convened at the The Westin Ottawa. NACC has reserved a block of discounted rooms at The Westin, and we encourage you to book your stay there by
Sept 25, 2026 to save!
11 Colonel By Drive Ottawa, Ontario, Canada, K1N 9H4
Situated in the heart of Ottawa on the Rideau Canal and steps from Parliament Hill, The Westin Ottawa hotel offers easy access to Canada’s national attractions. The hotel is conveniently connected directly to the Rideau Centre Shopping Mall.
Rooms: $339 – $499 per night
Block Dates: Sun, Oct 25 – Tues, Oct 27
Sponsorship
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