The BB2C Network

Investing in Our Talent Ecosystem: BB2C’s 2026 Community & Career Connected Learning Summit

One day. Hundreds of changemakers. Endless opportunities to strengthen the future of our students, workforce, and communities.

Join educators, employers, students, higher education partners, policymakers, and community leaders from across Appalachian Ohio as we explore how Community & Career Connected Learning creates thriving talent ecosystems.

About the Summit

Strong communities don't happen by chance; they are built through intentional investments in people, partnerships, and pathways.

BB2C’s annual Community & Career Connected Learning Summit is a regional gathering dedicated to strengthening the connections between education, workforce development, economic prosperity, and community engagement.

This year's theme, "Investing in Our Talent Ecosystem," recognizes that preparing students for meaningful futures is a shared responsibility. Schools, businesses, higher education, nonprofit organizations, and community leaders all play an essential role in creating experiences that help young people discover purpose, build skills, develop relationships, and contribute to their communities.

Through inspiring keynote speakers, student voices, interactive breakout sessions, and meaningful networking opportunities, attendees will leave with practical strategies, innovative ideas, and new partnerships to strengthen Community & Career Connected Learning in their own communities.

Who Should Attend?

• K–12 Educators

• School & District Leaders

• Postsecondary Faculty & Staff

• Employers & Industry Partners

• Economic Development Professionals

• Community Organizations

• Workforce Development Leaders

• Policymakers

• Students: PK-12, Postsecondary, and Adult Learners

• Anyone passionate about building stronger communities through education

What You'll Experience

✔ Inspiring keynote presentations

✔ Student stories and leadership

✔ Innovative breakout sessions

✔ Networking with regional leaders

✔ Practical tools and resources

✔ New partnerships to strengthen your local talent ecosystem

"This summit is a chance for us to practice what we preach. Showcasing our amazing partners across the region and highlighting how community and career connections impact outcomes for students as pathmakers."- Jeremy Ward, BB2C Network Director