The 2025 North American Career Education Convention at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas was the largest and most dynamic gathering of private career education professionals yet. With record attendance, a bustling exhibit hall, and a packed agenda, the energy and optimism were unmistakable.
As a newly appointed member of the CECU board, I had the privilege of attending several board meetings throughout the week. These sessions underscored CECU’s commitment to strong advocacy for its members—whether it’s pushing for risk-sharing formula reform, expanding Pell Grants to short-term programs, or working to modernize the Higher Education Act. The board’s focus remains on ensuring fair, outcomes-focused policy and supporting institutions as they navigate a fast-changing regulatory climate.
Keynote Speakers and Highlights
This year’s keynote speakers brought a wide range of insights:
- Robert Irvine shared lessons on leadership, resilience, and giving back, drawing from his business and philanthropic work.
- Sean Evans offered a unique perspective on curiosity, preparation, and building authentic connections—even under pressure.
- James Bergeron, Acting Under Secretary of the U.S. Department of Education, provided invaluable insight into federal policy priorities and the future of postsecondary education.
- Heather McGowan challenged us to prepare for the future of work with adaptability and a growth mindset.
- Winn Claybaugh inspired with his message on kindness, leadership, and building values-driven organizations.
Emerging Themes from the Convention
Four major themes stood out:
- Navigating Regulatory and Compliance Change – Sessions focused on best practices for compliance, risk management, and staying ahead of new federal and state requirements. Technology—including AI-powered analytics—was discussed as a tool for more adaptive compliance and reporting.
- Workforce Development and Employer Partnerships – There was a strong emphasis on aligning programs with workforce needs, building employer relationships, and leveraging data to ensure students are career-ready.
- Innovation in Student Experience and Outcomes – Presenters highlighted how technology and data analytics—sometimes supported by AI—are driving improvements in student engagement, retention, and career outcomes.
- Leadership, Collaboration, and Institutional Growth – Leadership development, sustainability, and collaboration—both within the sector and with external partners—were recurring topics. Board meetings and networking events reinforced the importance of sharing best practices and supporting each other through change.
Mike Wherry and I led sessions on acquisitions, sales, mergers, and compliance, sparking lively engagement and practical takeaways for attendees.
Beyond the sessions, dinners and networking events provided invaluable opportunities to reconnect with colleagues and forge new relationships. The exhibit hall buzzed with innovation, showcasing solutions to help career education institutions meet today’s challenges and tomorrow’s opportunities.
Overall, the 2025 North American Career Education Convention reaffirmed our shared mission: to equip students with the skills and opportunities they need to succeed in a dynamic workforce. I’m grateful to have been part of this extraordinary event and look forward to working together to advance the sector.
Dave McClintock
