Empowering Ohio’s Future Workforce

Join educators, employers, and innovators from across the state for the 2026 Ohio Cooperative Education Association (OCEA) Annual Conference — the premier event dedicated to advancing cooperative education, internships, and work-based learning opportunities that power Ohio’s workforce of tomorrow. This year’s theme, Nurturing Talent. Shaping Futures. Building Careers, celebrates the essential role that experiential learning plays in helping students grow, communities thrive, and organizations succeed. It’s a call to action to invest in the people and partnerships that turn potential into purpose. 

Why Attend

At OCEA 2026, you’ll discover:

• Practical strategies and inspiring ideas to enhance co-op, internship, and apprenticeship programs.
• Networking opportunities with educators, employers, and workforce leaders committed to developing Ohio’s talent pipeline.
• Collaborative sessions and workshops focused on strengthening partnerships between education, industry, and government.
• Recognition and celebration of excellence through OCEA’s awards and scholarships honoring impactful programs and professionals.

Who Should Attend

If you’re helping shape the future of experiential learning in Ohio — this is where you belong. The OCEA Annual Conference brings together educators, employers, university recruiters, and workforce development professionals dedicated to creating meaningful, work-based experiences that prepare students for success and drive economic growth.

The OCEA Experience

Expect more than just professional development — expect connection, collaboration, and inspiration. From dynamic keynotes to interactive sessions, OCEA 2026 provides the insights and community you need to make a lasting impact in cooperative education and workforce innovation. Together, we’re building pathways from classrooms to careers — nurturing talent, shaping futures, and building a stronger Ohio. Join us in May 2026 to connect purpose with practice at the OCEA Annual Conference.

Click the button below to take you to the conference registration page.  Please note the following:

• Conference Registration fee is $450 until Monday, April 13.  After April 13, the price increases to $500.  The registration fee includes a $50 membership fee, effective June 2026 through May 2027.
• One-Day Registration is available at $250 per day.
• OCEA Members:  Login as a member before registering. The login button is on the upper right corner of the screen.