2026 Annual Conference
Mark your calendar to join us in Indianapolis, IN for the 2026 Midwest Association of Colleges and Employers (MWACE) Annual Conference, taking place November 4–6.
This year’s conference celebrates Indianapolis's unique position as a vital connector between industries, regions, and communities. Positioned at the crossroads of innovation, opportunity, and collaboration, the city plays a pivotal role in strengthening the workforce ecosystem. Together, we aim to forge meaningful connections, advance career opportunities, and shape a workforce prepared for the challenges and opportunities of tomorrow.
We are pleased to announce that Matt Kovatchis will serve as the keynote speaker for the MWACE Annual Conference in Indianapolis this November.
Matt will present his signature program, Stop Beating Yourself Up: Leading with Compassion, which explores the importance of moving beyond self-criticism and embracing self-compassion as a strategy for managing stress and building resilience.
This keynote promises to be high-energy and impactful—designed not only to inspire, but to equip attendees with tools that support meaningful, lasting change.
Professional Exchange Employer Site Visits
Wednesday, November 4, 2026 | 12:00–3:00 p.m.
- Join your colleagues for a Professional Exchange Employer Site Visit! Registration is $30 per visit and includes transportation, if needed, and tour fees. Advance registration is required, and spaces are limited.
- Participants should meet in the hotel lobby between noon and 12:30 p.m. Groups will depart promptly at 12:30 p.m., and attendees are encouraged to walk together for visits within walking distance.
- A valid photo ID is required at each employer location. Lunch will not be provided, so please plan accordingly.
Why Attend MWACE Conference
- Build connections with leading professionals in career services and college recruiting through energizing networking
- Join your colleagues on a Professional Exchange Employer Site Visits
- Gain real-time insights into evolving trends shaping the future of career development
- Benchmark with aligned institutions and organizations
- Engage with an open, collaborative, and vibrant professional community
|
|
Find our more information about Sponsorships HERE.
Annual Meeting Call for Presentations opening May 11, 2026!
|
Theme Focus
|
Theme Session Ideas
|
Notes
|
|
People
|
Connecting People to Networks, Mentorships, and Collaborations
|
Impacts outside of the classrooms with meaningful connections.
|
|
Purpose
|
Coaching with a Purpose
|
Helping students bridge experiences to their post-graduation outcomes.
|
|
Pathways
|
Pathways that Work: Case Studies from the Midwest
|
Spotlights on successful employer–university collaborations (internships, apprenticeships, micro‑internships).
|
|
Professional Development
|
Our Careers in Motion: Leveling Up our Professional Development
|
How our professional environments can help support us in our professional development.
|
Questions? Contact the MWACE Office
|
