NCPERS Spring 2026: Key Events, Training Opportunities, and Ways to Engage

By: Hank Kim, CEO, NCPERS

The NCPERS team has just returned from San Diego, and we’re still energized by what unfolded there. More than 200 public pension professionals joined us for our inaugural Communications & Member Services Summit — a record turnout and a powerful reminder of what happens when this community comes together.

Over three days, attendees shared challenges, celebrated successes, swapped ideas, and connected over the purpose that drives our work. There’s a unique spark that happens when you get professionals from across the country in one room, speaking openly about what they’re navigating and what’s working back home. That sense of connection is exactly what makes the NCPERS network so special, and it’s what we’re carrying with us into our next big gathering.

Counting Down Until ACE in Las Vegas

We’re now gearing up for the NCPERS Annual Conference & Exhibition (ACE), happening May 17–20 in Las Vegas. This year’s ACE is especially meaningful as we celebrate 85 years of serving public pensions with programming designed to both honor our history and look boldly toward the future.

As one of the longest-running educational conference for state and local public pensions, ACE delivers four days of learning, inspiration, and collaboration through more than 40 peer-to-peer and expert-led sessions, a vibrant exhibit hall, and dedicated networking opportunities.

With more than 800 participants expected, you’ll have the chance to connect with trustees, administrators, staff, service providers, consultants, union representatives, and regulators from across the U.S. and Canada.

The breadth of participation offers diverse perspectives from plan leaders and top service providers on the key issues impacting our industry such as:

• The future of public pensions, from AI to workforce development and beyond
• Investment insights and asset class outlooks, with perspectives from investment consultants, asset managers and CIOs
• The role of financial literacy in member education
• Governance best practices and fiduciary trends
• And much more.

View the agenda, and be sure to book your room at Caesars Palace before the April 13 room block deadline.

Note: If you haven't already done so, please follow these steps to create your new account on our redesigned website before registering. Please contact registration@ncpers.org for further assistance or read our FAQs.

Arrive Early for NCPERS University: Your Path to Fiduciary Excellence

If you’re able to arrive a bit early (May 16–17), NCPERS University programs offer a great opportunity to level up your knowledge and make the most of your time in Las Vegas:

• Trustee Essentials Training is perfect for new trustees looking to grow their peer network and build a strong foundation in investments, actuarial science, board policies, and plan governance. View the agenda.

• The NCPERS Advanced Fiduciary (NAF) Institute supports seasoned trustees and pension professionals in deepening their expertise and mastering best practices around governance, finance, risk management, and human capital. Plus, you’ll have the chance to earn your Advanced Fiduciary (AF) credential.

These programs are hands-on, practical, and designed to equip trustees and pension professionals with the tools to excel long after the event ends. Space is limited and registration closes on May 8, so don’t wait to register!

Join Us in June: Chief Officers Summit

A few weeks later, CEOs and CIOs will gather in Newport Beach for the Chief Officers Summit, June 15–17.

With an agenda crafted by CEOs and CIOs themselves, this event focuses on higher‑level strategic conversations — leadership, innovation, human capital, and the toughest challenges facing public pension plans.

With only plan leaders in the room, it’s an environment where candid dialogue is encouraged and collaboration comes naturally. This closed-door format allows for candid conversations you can’t find anywhere else. Learn more and register now to reserve your seat at the table.

Where Will We See You in 2026?

Whether you’re a trustee, plan staff member, union leader, or service provider, there’s a place for you at NCPERS 11 annual in-person events. You’ll gain tools, insights, and connections needed to strengthen your retirement system and grow professionally.

I encourage you to explore our upcoming event and webinar calendar and reach out to education@ncpers.org with any questions. Be sure to bookmark our Get Involved page for the latest opportunities to learn, grow, and engage with our community.

We’re building real momentum, and we look forward to continuing that journey with you in 2026.