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.

REGISTRATION LINK TBA

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

Earn SHRM Recertification Credits

 MWACE is recognized by SHRM to offer professional development credits (PDCs) for SHRM-CP® or SHRM-SCP® recertification activities.

The MWACE Annual Conference has been approved for SHRM Professional Development Credits (PDCs). This is a valuable opportunity for HR professionals to fulfill recertification requirements while gaining insights and connections.

 


Important Conference Dates

Dates subject to change

Early May: Call for Proposals Open (Information available below)
Mid June: Call for Proposals Close 
Mid June: Early Registration & Hotel Reservations Open
Mid September: Early Registration Ends
Mid September: Regular Registration Begins
Mid October: Hotel Group Rate Cut-Off (based on availability)
November 4 - 6: 2026 Annual Conference

Sponsorship Opportunities


The Talent Circle: Connecting People, Purpose & Pathways in Indianapolis

Annual Meeting Call for Presentations opening early May 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