Riding the Wave of Innovation: A Look Back at the NACCE 2025 National Conference
The NACCE 2025 National Conference in beautiful Coronado, California, was an inspiring gathering of educators, entrepreneurs, and innovators riding the wave of entrepreneurship and workforce transformation. Over four action-packed days, attendees explored how creativity, technology, and collaboration can strengthen communities and drive the future of learning and work.
The conference kicked off on Saturday and Sunday with preconference sessions that set the tone for the week. From supercharging grant strategies with AI to exploring creativity and capital for student success, these sessions equipped participants with tools to navigate the ever-evolving educational landscape. Sunday also featured the NACCE Board of Directors meeting and a warm welcome to first-time attendees before everyone gathered for the Opening General Session—a celebration of ideas and action that sparked excitement for the days ahead.
Monday brought the energy, starting with “The Entrepreneurial Edge: Powering What’s Next,” followed by a celebration of 10 years of Verizon Innovative Learning STEM Achievers. Attendees explored dozens of breakout sessions highlighting AI’s role in business and education, workforce development, and innovative teaching strategies. The afternoon’s Pitch for the Skilled Trades Competition showcased community colleges empowering students to turn their ideas into impact. The day closed with networking, laughter, and a Yacht Rock-themed evening reception overlooking the harbor—proof that connection and collaboration are at the heart of every NACCE event.
Tuesday’s sessions continued to build momentum, featuring insights from national thought leaders on workforce innovation, veteran entrepreneurship, and technology that transforms learning. Attendees celebrated the winners of the Pitch for the Skilled Trades, the Entrepreneurial College of the Year, and the Student Entrepreneur of the Year awards. The day ended with the launch of the Verizon Small Business Digital Ready & NACCE Institute Program, uniting partners to expand opportunities for small businesses and educators nationwide.
Finally, Wednesday’s closing session captured the spirit of NACCE: collaboration, creativity, and community impact. Speakers from across the country shared bold visions for the future of learning and work, celebrating how entrepreneurship can spark change far beyond the classroom.
As attendees headed home, one message echoed through every hallway and conversation: The future of work and learning is being built today—by community colleges, entrepreneurs, and educators who lead with innovation and purpose.
Thank you to everyone who joined us in Coronado for #NACCE2025! We can’t wait to see you next year as we continue to innovate, collaborate, and empower communities through entrepreneurship.