Focus Areas for EDGE 2026

We are looking for cutting-edge content in the following areas:

• The Future of Work: Emerging economies, career pathways, leadership, essential new skills, and the evolving impact on job creation.
• Innovation in Education & Workforce Readiness: Integrating technology (e.g., AI, VR) into career-connected learning and modernizing curricula for in and out-of-school time.
• Cutting-Edge Technology & Tools: Demonstrating practical applications of technology that enhance student engagement, career guidance, and program effectiveness.

JAG Advantage Pillars: Deep dives into high-impact strategies like Project-Based Learning, Trauma-Informed Care, and best practices for Employer Engagement.

Submission Requirements

SUBMIT: Workshop Proposal Form 

Key proposal elements include: 

• A captivating session title and an action-focused, 150-word description written in the third person.
• Your description must clearly articulate what participants will be able to do or what tangible solution/resource they will walk away with after attending your session. 
• For example: “Attendees will be able to leverage the provided 5-step framework to successfully integrate local business leaders into their classroom’s project-based learning curriculum.”

• A Session “Hook”  – a one-liner describing the value of your session. A great hook follows the formula: [Identity] + [Problem] + [Solution]. 
• For example, “Bridge the talent gap by turning your entry-level roles into career-destination pathways that Gen Z actually want.”
• Session Objectives: Describe at least three objectives for your session. Focus on the practical, actionable insights attendees will gain and the actions you hope to spark. (100-word max)
• You may include a slide deck and supportive resources to reinforce your application. 

Timeline

Presenter Details & Requirements

• JAG provides: Wifi, LCD projector, screen, flip chart, and markers.
• Presenter Responsibility: The presenter should present from their personal laptop, or is responsible for arranging and purchasing any additional Audio/Visual needs, including a laptop, directly with the conference vendor. 
• Selected applicants will qualify for the discounted attendee rate of $849 (unless included in another sponsorship agreement). A registration link will be shared with your acceptance notification. 
• We will be holding two virtual prep sessions for presenters; you only need to attend one. We highly encourage you to attend, as we will go over the details of the EDGE, expectations for presenters/ speakers, and other helpful information. It will also be a time for you to ask us any questions you may have.

You will receive invites to both Prep Sessions; again, you only need to come to one, so feel free to deny the invite for the meeting you won’t be able to attend.

• Wednesday, May 13 at 2 pm ET/ 11 am PT
• Thursday, May 21 at 3 pm ET/ 12 pm PT
• Zoom links will be shared in the confirmation email. 

• A speaker guide will be shared with each speaker selected to present at the conference. The guide will include key information, instructions, and a social media toolkit to help you promote your engagement at EDGE. 
• Please email Carolyn at events@jag.org with any questions. 

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