Announcement

Join us at the forefront of the College & Career AI Revolution: Get Ready Now! This groundbreaking conference, taking place on November 18-19 at the Hotel Champlain in Burlington, VT, is designed for educators, business leaders and other professionals eager to navigate the transformative impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on education and career pathways.

In an era where AI is reshaping industries and job markets at an unprecedented pace, understanding its implications is not just advantageous but essential. Our conference will feature speakers who will talk about the future of work, the impact of AI on jobs, and the human qualities that machines cannot replicate. Other sessions will delve into key topics such as AI-driven career trends, the future of learning in an AI-powered world, and the skills needed to thrive in the new digital economy.

Don’t miss this opportunity to:

  • Gain valuable knowledge and insights about AI.
  • Network with other professionals and thought leaders.
  • Help shape the conversation about the responsible and effective use of AI for college and career readiness.
  • Explore the benefits and challenges of how AI is creating the new college and career readiness paradigm.

Mark your calendar now and prepare to embark on a journey to build a brighter future in the college and career readiness landscape.

Keynote Speakers

Conference Speaker
Seth MattisonFounder & CEO, FutureSight Labs LLC
Seth Mattison is an internationally recognized thought leader, author, advisor, and speaker on change and transformation, leadership and the future of work. Recently named to the Top 50 Keynote Speakers in the World, Seth’s ideas have been featured in such publications as The Wall St. Journal, Forbes, Entrepreneur, and The Globe and Mail.

Seth has shared his insights, over the last two decades, with millions of business leaders, working closely with recognizable brands like Mastercard, Johnson and Johnson, IBM, The Dallas Cowboys, AT&T, PepsiCo, GE, EY, Caterpillar, and The Walt Disney Company.

Alyson Van HooserPresident & CEO, Van Hooser Leadership
Alyson Van Hooser, who grew up in rural Kentucky, reflects on her early years: “I was the kid on free and reduced lunch, and I didn’t have a clear vision of my future.” Despite these challenges, Alyson defied expectations. She not only became the first in her family to graduate from high school but also to earn a college degree.

Throughout her journey, Alyson has embodied the Essential Skills. By the age of 26, she had been elected to the city council and had held management roles in corporate America and the financial industry.

Today, Alyson serves as the president and CEO of her own company, where she assists corporate leaders and educators worldwide in transforming organizations through effective leadership. At the conference, Alyson will explore the concept of leadership in the era of AI and discuss how we can collectively shape the future of work.

CFES conference speaker

The College & Career AI Revolution: Get Ready Now

DAY ONE: NOVEMBER 18

8:00-10:00am: Registration Opens

10:00-10:45am: Pre-Conference Professional Learning Sessions (pre-registration required)

  • CCR Advisor Training Teaser – Green Mountain A: Now more than ever, students, especially those from rural and low-income communities, need guidance to navigate a pathway to college and career readiness. Learn how the CFES certified College and Career Readiness Advisor training program for school staff, family members, students, and community/corporate volunteers can equip your students with the knowledge, tools and resources they need to envision and progress on their own education and career pathways.
  • Reimagining Mentorship – Green Mountain B: Mentoring empowers students for college and career success through networks, skills, and knowledge. Come join us to reimagine your program with new ideas and fresh practices. In this interactive workshop, you’ll discover actionable strategies for implementing successful mentoring models.
  • Lessons Learned from Evaluation & Research – Green Mountain C: Over the past six years, Dr. Kim has collected data and information from students, staff, and families from around the country, and studied the impact of programming in CFES GEAR UP and RPED schools. Gain an understanding of the findings from evaluation of rural college and career readiness programs and their benefit to students and their families.

10:45-11:45am: Brunch – Prefunction

12:00-12:15pm: Kick-off – Adirondack Ballroom

  • Opening & Reflections on College & Career Readiness in the AI Revolution – Tara Smith, Co-CEO of CFES Brilliant Pathways

12:15-1:15pm: Introduction – Shameka Cobb, CFES Alumna

  • Fortune Family Foundation Keynote Speaker – Seth Mattison: In his Getting Ready Now: for the College and Career AI Revolution talk, Seth will discuss the future of work, the impact of AI on jobs, and the human qualities that machines cannot replicate.

1:15-1:30pm: Transition/Snack Break – Green Mountain Foyer & Lobby

1:30-2:30pm: INNOVATIVE INITIATIVES: Concurrent Sessions

  • What is Artificial Intelligence? – Green Mountain B: Whether you’re new to the topic or want to deepen your understanding, this session will provide valuable insights and information about the role of AI in shaping our future. Bring your questions and curiosity as we navigate the transformative landscape of artificial intelligence together!
  • Transforming Higher Education: The Impact of AI – Green Mountain A: Explore the transformative impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on higher education in this engaging session. From revolutionizing teaching methods to enhancing administrative efficiency, AI technologies are reshaping the traditional academic landscape. Discover how AI-driven applications are personalizing learning experiences, optimizing student support systems, and driving research innovations. Gain insights into the challenges and opportunities in education presented by AI, and learn about current trends and future possibilities.
  • The Impact of AI on Today’s Workforce – Green Mountain C: Delve into the profound influence of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on today’s workforce. Discover how AI is transforming industries, reshaping job roles, and revolutionizing workplace dynamics. Hear from industry leaders about the skills and competencies they seek in current employees and the role Ai is playing in enhancing productivity, streamlining operations, and fostering innovation. We’ll explore considerations and challenges associated with AI adoption in the workplace, and share skills, tools and strategies to prepare students for today’s workforce and to thrive in an AI-driven economy.
  • Bridging the Gap: Understanding College and Career Readiness from a Scholar’s Perspective – Lake Champlain Conference Room A: In this session, you will see college and career readiness through the unique lens of CFES Scholars. By engaging with Scholars about their experiences, challenges and aspirations, you will gain a deeper understanding of how to effectively prepare and support your program’s scholars for success in their pursuit of a brilliant pathway. You will learn practical strategies and best practices for fostering student-centered approaches to college and career readiness, enhancing your ability to empower and guide student scholars.
  • Vermont Pitch: Empowering Young Entrepreneurs with CFES and the University of Vermont – Lake Champlain Conference Room B: CFES and the University of Vermont partnered to create the Vermont Pitch Challenge, a Shark Tank-style competition open to students in grades 10-12. The Challenge encourages students to develop an entrepreneurial idea that is both beneficial to the common good and capable of making a profit. Participants gain valuable experience in crafting compelling pitches, developing a professional presence, and sharpening critical thinking skills. Last year, 26 CFES Scholars completed Vermont Pitch applications. A CFES Scholar from Ticonderoga, NY high school  was one of five finalists who shared her plan at the University of Vermont in April, winning a $1,000 prize.

2:30-2:45pm: Transition/Snack Break – Green Mountain Foyer & Lobby

2:45-3:45pm: INFORMATIVE DISCUSSIONS: Concurrent Sessions

  • Cows, Coal & Classrooms: The Economies of Three Career Clusters – Green Mountain C: This discussion will focus on the Economy of Things, the Economy of Skills, and the Economy of Ideas and connect them to three career clusters to explore job opportunities in Agriculture, Extraction, and Education.
  • Young Men of Talent: Scholars and Mentors Cultivating Excellence – Green Mountain A: Learn about the Young Men of Talent (YMT) program created by CFES Brilliant Pathways in partnership with the University of Vermont (UVM). It’s strengthening college retention for male students of color through adult and peer mentorship, paid internships, intra-university partnerships, all while preparing students for the workforce as they move toward degree attainment. Learn how you can get involved in a YMT program as it expands to other colleges, as well as secondary schools.
  • Exploring the Integration of AI in K-12 Classrooms – Lake Champlain B: This session invites educators and stakeholders to explore the burgeoning role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in K-12 education. Discover how AI technologies are reshaping traditional teaching methods, personalizing learning experiences, and supporting educators in diverse classroom settings. Explore real-world examples of AI applications in K-12, from adaptive learning platforms to AI-driven educational games. Discuss the benefits, challenges, and ethical implications of integrating AI into classrooms, and learn about innovative strategies for effectively leveraging AI to enhance student engagement and academic success.
  • Building Hope and Meeting Needs: Skills Based Activities and Exposure to Non-Traditional Pathways – Lake Champlain Conference Room A: In this session, participants will explore how to meet the diverse needs of students in residential treatment facilities through skills-based activities and exposure to post-secondary pathways. The session will highlight strategies and techniques for fostering a sense of optimism and resilience among students, while also equipping them with practical skills and knowledge to navigate routes to success in education and the workforce. Attendees will gain valuable insights and resources to empower and support students in discovering their unique talents and interests, ultimately inspiring them to pursue fulfilling and meaningful pathways towards their future goals.
  • Access & Equity in AI: Ensuring College and Career Readiness for All – Green Mountain B: As Artificial Intelligence is transforming education and workforce landscapes, it is crucial to address the implications of access and equity. This session will explore how AI can either bridge- or widen- the gap in college and career readiness among underserved student populations.

4:00-5:00pm:

  • Break/Hotel Check-in
  • Network & Share: Meet with colleagues from this year’s Schools of Distinction, Young Men of Talent (YMT) Scholars, and College partners. – North Prefunction

5:00-5:30pm: Reception– Prefunction

5:30-6:30pm:  Dinner– Adirondack Ballroom

6:30pm: Introduction – Gregory Herman, CFES Alumnus – Adirondack Ballroom

  • Featured Speaker – Alyson Van Hooser: In her Redefining Leadership in the AI Era talk, Alyson will discuss leadership in the era of AI and how we can shape the future of work.

7:30pm:  Networking Social – Original Skiff

DAY TWO: NOVEMBER 19

8:00-9:00am: Networking Breakfast – Adirondack Ballroom

9:00-9:45am:

  • Welcome & Preview of Day 2
  • Schools of Distinction Recognition
  • Mario Peña Award

9:45-10:00am: Transition/Snack Break – Green Mountain Foyer & Lobby

10:00-11:00am: INTERACTIVE WORKSHOPS: Concurrent Sessions

  • Essential Skills for the Future Workforce: Addressing Tomorrow’s Needs – Green Mountain A: In this session, we will delve into the Essential Skills required to meet the evolving demands of the future workforce. Discover how to cultivate agility, leadership, networking and other competencies to succeed in a rapidly changing professional landscape. Gain actionable strategies for personal and professional development to help students successfully navigate their postsecondary journeys.
  • Emerging Careers of 2024 and Beyond: Trends in Rapid Growth – Lake Champlain Conference Room A: Join us for an exploration of the fastest growing careers anticipated beyond 2024. Discover key industries and roles poised for significant expansion, fueled by technological advancements and shifting market trends. Gain valuable insights into the skills and qualifications needed to thrive in these dynamic fields, and learn how to strategically navigate your career path in an evolving job market. Whether you’re a student, professional, or career-changer, this session offers key guidance for preparing for the future of work.
  • Understanding the New FAFSA and Managing Student Loan Debt – Green Mountain B: Join us for an in-depth discussion on the latest updates to the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) and their implications for managing student loan debt. Explore strategies to navigate the application process efficiently and maximize financial aid opportunities. Learn about resources and tools available to help students and families make informed decisions about borrowing and repayment. Whether you’re a student, parent, or educator, this session aims to empower you with crucial knowledge to tackle the challenges of responsibly financing higher education.
  • Sparking Interest in Healthcare Careers Through Hands-On Surgical Experiences – Green Mountain C: By 2026, the U.S. will need 3.2 million new healthcare workers. Many CFES Scholars are the future of this workforce, and now is the perfect time to expose them to skills and tools that will ignite their passion and encourage them to consider this thriving field. Join us for an engaging, hands-on session where you will discover how interactive medical and surgical experiences—like suturing, abscess drainage, and tumor excision—can captivate your students and connect them to real-world medical career paths. Using affordable, professional-grade training models, you’ll experience firsthand how these tools can enhance your school’s career development programs, inspiring students to pursue in-demand healthcare careers.

11:00-11:15am: Transition/Snack Break – Green Mountain Foyer & Lobby

11:15-12:00pm: At-Large Panel – Synthesizing What We’ve Learned: Are We Ready Now? – Adirondack Ballroom: Education and workplace leaders discuss the implications of what we have learned about how Artificial Intelligence and other forces are revolutionizing the college and career readiness landscape and its implications for the young people with whom we work.

12:00pm: Conference Wrap Up – Adirondack Ballroom

12:15pm: Grab & Go Lunch & Departure – Prefunction

Become a Conference Sponsor

Titanium Partner

$50,000+

Sponsor

Platinum Partner

$25,000

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Gold Partner

$10,000

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Silver Partner

$5,000

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Bronze Partner

$1,000

Sponsor

Titanium

Platinum

Gold

Silver

The Flores Family

Bronze

Adirondack Foundation – Port Jackson Fund

The Rix Family

Location

On the shores of Lake Champlain,  Hotel Champlain by Hilton has what past guests call the best view in Burlington, Vermont. Visitors can watch boats come into the harbor and enjoy panoramas of the Adirondack Mountains from their rooms. Surrounded by restaurants, with Church Street Marketplace a five-minute walk away. Hop aboard one of the rental bikes and explore the Burlington Bike Path.

Burlington is home to a thriving arts scene, museums and educational opportunities, creative entrepreneurship, three colleges and a university, as well as a full range of four-season outdoor pursuits. It’s no wonder this small, friendly city consistently earns national awards.

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Celebrate Success

At the conference, CFES will recognize the 2023-24 Schools of Distinction for their development and execution of exemplary plans based on the 10 point plan and the three core practices: Essential Skills, Mentoring, and Pathways to College and Career.

Susan LaPierre,  Math Teacher at Plattsburgh City School District was last year’s Mario Peña Award winner. Sue and Plattsburgh City School have been long-time partners, offering hundreds of opportunities for CFES scholars, participate in college & career readiness activities, providing college students as mentors and foster the Essential Skills with a focus on service and student leadership.