AI to LinkedIn: CERIC launches Spring 2026 Learning Season with expert-led webinars
February 11, 2026
Cannexus26, Canada’s largest bilingual career development conference presented by CERIC, brought together more than 1,600 delegates in Ottawa and online from January 26-28, 2026 for three days of learning, dialogue and community building. The conference marked a significant milestone as Cannexus celebrated its 20th anniversary, reflecting on two decades of advancing career development research, policy and practice across Canada.
Guided by the theme Evolving Work, Expanding Impact: 20 Years of Cannexus, the conference highlighted how career development continues to expand in importance amid labour market disruption, technological change and growing demands for inclusive, human-centred support.
A rich and relevant learning experience
Cannexus26 featured more than 140 sessions spanning a wide range of topics relevant to current and emerging challenges in the field. Delegates consistently highlighted the strength and breadth of the program, noting that sessions were practical, thought-provoking and immediately applicable to their work.
Popular sessions explored:
- Responsible and ethical use of AI in career development
- Strengths-based and future-focused client language
- Neurodiversity, including ADHD, in career development contexts
- Professional practice challenges in career development
- Workplace well-being for career development professionals
Ariuna Kostova, an in-person attendee from the Immigrant Services Association of Nova Scotia (ISANS), shared, “Being in a space where so many experienced professionals gathered to share deep insights, research, data and evidence-based approaches shifted something in me. It reaffirmed the value of this field and expanded my perspective on what is possible.”
In the post-conference survey, 95.6% of delegates rated the conference as good to excellent, and 82.3% indicated they plan to recommend it to their colleagues.
Inspiring voices and diverse perspectives
The Cannexus26 program brought together respected practitioners, researchers and thought leaders from across the country and beyond. Keynote speakers included psychotherapist Sonny Wong, disability advocate Spencer West, award-winning journalist Farah Nasser and Inuk singer-songwriter Susan Aglukark, each offering timely perspectives on leadership, resilience and maintaining the human element in career development work.
For Eman Ismail-Elmasri of Skilled Trades Prep Inc. in Ontario, attending Cannexus26 in person for the first time was both inspiring and energizing. “The keynote speakers were inspiring and full of positive energy,” she said. “The sessions were insightful, and I loved connecting with so many amazing professionals who made the conference feel welcoming and engaging.”
Connection at the heart of Cannexus
For many in-person participants, the opportunity to connect with colleagues from across Canada was a defining feature of Cannexus26. Delegates described the conference as energizing and community-focused, with both formal and informal networking frequently cited as highlights.
“As someone new to a role focused on career pathways this year, it was incredibly valuable to learn what others are doing differently and what we are doing similarly to advance career readiness,” shared Carmen Neale of Edmonton Public Schools in Alberta. “Opportunities to be in a room with people who share such a deep commitment to supporting clients are rare, and this conference was truly special.”
Krista Power of Qalipu First Nation in Newfoundland and Labrador highlighted the sense of belonging that carried through the entire experience. She described Cannexus26 as “beyond incredible,” noting the passion and dedication of presenters, hosts and fellow delegates alike.
Ahead of the official program, delegates also came together for the expanded ISET National Gathering, a pre-conference event that brought together Indigenous Skills and Employment Training (ISET) agreement holders from across the country. With more than 300 participants this year, the gathering created space for Indigenous-led dialogue, knowledge sharing and relationship-building focused on workforce development and community-centred approaches to employment and training.
Meaningful engagement online
Virtual participants also reported a positive and impactful experience, emphasizing the accessibility and quality of the online programming. Attendees appreciated being able to engage with expert speakers and diverse topics regardless of location, as well as the ability to rewatch sessions and access learning from concurrent programming.
Jessica McKenna of Acorn Avenue Consulting in New Brunswick shared that the virtual format made it possible for her to attend during a particularly busy season. “I was genuinely impressed by how meaningful the experience still felt,” she said. “The platform supported real connection and collaboration, not just passive viewing.”
Recognizing leadership in the field
During Cannexus26, Sareena Hopkins was recognized with the 2026 Etta St. John Wileman Award for Outstanding Achievement in Career Development, honouring her transformative leadership and lasting contributions to the field. Hopkins serves as Co-CEO of the Canadian Career Development Foundation (CCDF), where she has played a defining role in strengthening professional standards and advancing evidence-based practice across Canada and internationally.
As Cannexus celebrated its 20th anniversary, the conference provided space to reflect on the evolution of the field and the collective contributions of career development professionals over the past two decades. Anniversary moments woven throughout the program, including the Rhythms of Recognition cultural celebration and a 20th anniversary panel, underscored Cannexus’ role as a national gathering place that continues to strengthen professional identity, community and impact.
Cannexus26 was presented by CERIC and supported by The Counselling Foundation of Canada, along with a broad network of 40 supporting organizations and valued partners who contributed to its success.
More Cannexus26 highlights
- Conference photos: Explore moments from Cannexus26, capturing learning, connection and celebration
- Wrap-up video: Watch highlights from three days of sessions, networking and reflection
- Cannexus 20th anniversary video: Celebrate two decades of Cannexus and its impact on the career development field
- CareerWise features:
Plans are already underway for Cannexus27, taking place January 25–27, 2027. Watch for the Call for Presenters this spring