Summer 2026 Working Connections in Ohio Recap
From June 1–4, 2026, educators from across the country gathered in Columbus for the Summer 2026 Working Connections in Ohio, hosted at Columbus State Community College’s downtown campus.
A total of 45 participants representing more than 30 institutions took part in four days of hands-on learning, collaboration, and skill-building.
Kicking Off the Week
The event opened with welcoming remarks from Columbus State President David Harrison and NITIC National Visiting Committee member Doug McCollough. Their comments emphasized the importance of continued learning, innovation, and investing in IT education in the wake of the rapid change of the technology field.
Focused, Hands-On Learning
Participants chose from three high-impact tracks:
- Advanced Data Analytics using Python, External APIs & AI
- AI-Powered Cybersecurity
- Intro to DevOps: Shipwrecks, Pirates, and Pipelines
Each track focused on practical skills and sessions were designed to help educators quickly apply what they learned in their own classrooms moving forward.
Building Meaningful Connections
It’s called Working Connections for a reason! It provided space for networking and peer learning. Participants shared ideas, discussed challenges, and built relationships across institutions.
“I found the networking and collaborative discussions with faculty from different institutions particularly valuable. Sharing experiences, teaching strategies, and resources provided new ideas that I can apply in my classroom and helped build connections for future collaboration.” – WC Faculty Participant
Early Impact
Participants left with new tools and fresh ideas for their programs. Early feedback highlights the value of the experience:
“I experienced re-encounters at this WC event that strengthened existing bonds and continued to foster critical thinking. Also, within my course, there was a huge amount of experience shared in the form of multiple attendee stories and demonstrations which showed real-world context versus academic positions.”
“We worked as a team and everyone was involved, hearing other instructor’s and what they do made this class priceless. We all need to follow today’s technology, that prepares our students for their future!”
Preliminary survey data shows positive feedback:
- 96% answered “agree” or “strongly agree” to statement WC 2026 provided them with high quality IT training
- 96% answered “agree” or “strongly agree” to statement WC 2026 provided them with training that they can use in their own classroom or program
- 96% answered “agree” or “strongly agree” to statement Time in class was well-spent
Looking Ahead
The Summer 2026 Ohio event demonstrated the ongoing impact of Working Connections. Participants returned to their institutions ready to apply new skills and strengthen their programs.
We look forward to continuing this work at future Working Connections events.