Hosted by Wisconsin APSE
Registration is now open for the 2026 Employment First Conference, hosted by Wisconsin APSE. The conference will take place June 1-2, 2026, at the Kalahari Resort in Wisconsin Dells.
This year's theme, Talent Unlock | Workforce Strong, focuses on strengthening workforce participation and expanding opportunities for individuals with disabilities through Employment First practices.
Featured Sessions
June 1 - 1:00-4:00 PM
The conference will begin with a session led by session led by Janet Estervig of Attainment Company. Janet develops curricula for special education transition programs and provides training that supports positive employment outcomes for students and adults with disabilities.
Her session, Employer Engagement and Networking, will focus on strategies for engaging employers using a business-focused approach to expand talent pipelines and strengthen workforce partnerships. Participants will learn practical approaches to build meaningful, long-term relationships with employers, including:
- Inventorying community resources
- Analyzing labor market data
- Marketing services effectively
- Utilizing professional networks
- Developing professional business proposals
June 2 - 8:00 AM-4:15 PM
Day two will begin with a session led by Erik Nelson of SETWorks. Erik brings nearly 20 years of experience in the DD/IDD sector and partners with disability service providers to strengthen performance and expand impact through technology and AI solutions.
In addition to his professional work, Erik is also the father of a child with autism and is passionate about building systems that are more accessible, responsive, and person-centered. His session will explore how providers can translate real-world challenges into practical AI applications that help reduce administrative burden, improve documentation, and strengthen service outcomes.
Additional breakout sessions will take place throughout the day on June 2. Please refer to the conference agenda for full details.
Additional Opportunities
Exhibitor Tables: Organizations interested in being an exhibitor may apply to host an exhibitor table for June 2.
Micro-vendor Tables: Opportunities are also available for small vendors to host a table and share their goods.
Registration and Additional Information
Register for the conference: 2026 Employment First Conference Registration
Exhibitor Applications: 2026 Employment First Exhibitor Applications
Micro-vendor Applications: 2026 Micro-Vendor Application
Hotel accommodations: A block of rooms has been reserved at the Kalahari Resort for the evening of June 1. Please use this booking link to reserve your room: https://book.passkey.com/e/51157508
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