Events for Public Pension Trustees
As a pension trustee, you carry the critical fiduciary duty of shaping the financial security of millions—with each decision echoing for decades to come. NCPERS' events help prepare you to govern with clarity, competence, and confidence.
Navigating the responsibilities of serving as a pension trustee requires confidence, clarity, and ongoing education. NCPERS’ in-person events are designed to support trustees at every stage of their journey—whether you’re newly appointed or a seasoned board member seeking to strengthen your expertise.
Our programs offer practical guidance, peer-to-peer learning, and direct access to industry leaders who understand the evolving challenges facing public pensions. Each event is tailored to a specific level of experience, helping you identify the right learning path for your role on the board.
Which NCPERS Events Are Right for Me?
NCPERS University
NCPERS Conferences
NCPERS Forums
New to Your Board?
Develop Your Skills at NCPERS Trustee Essentials Training
The Trustee Essentials Training is designed to provide new trustees and public pension plan staff with the knowledge, confidence, and practical skills needed to make informed decisions and effectively fulfil their fiduciary duties.
This interactive, expert-led program (formerly known as the Trustee Educational Seminar, or TEDS) covers the fundamentals of investing, actuarial science, board policies, and plan governance. The Trustee Essential Training is conveniently held each May, immediately before NCPERS Annual Conference & Exhibition.
Mastered the Basics?
Navigate Emerging Challenges at NCPERS Fiduciary in Focus Workshop
Take your learning to the next level with NCPERS Fiduciary in Focus Workshop (formerly known as Program for Advanced Trustee Studies, or PATS). Each fall, this program dives deep into two timely, high-impact topics, giving trustees and plan staff the expertise to tackle critical challenges. Hands-on exercises, collaborative discussions, and expert guidance in a small classroom setting help participants translate complex issues into actionable strategies.
Lead with Confidence with NCPERS Advanced Fiduciary Institute
Held annually in both the spring and fall, NCPERS Advanced Fiduciary (NAF) Institute is where pension professionals and experienced trustees go to master the skills needed to strengthen their retirement systems. Through real-world case studies and tailored insights, you’ll learn advanced strategies to enhance board performance, ensure compliance, manage risk, and address workforce challenges. Once you complete all four modules, you’ll have the opportunity to earn your Advanced Fiduciary (AF) credential.
Build Your Peer Network at NCPERS Conferences
As some of the largest gatherings in the public pension space, NCPERS Conferences attract hundreds of professionals from across the U.S. and Canada. This breadth of participation creates unmatched networking opportunities and diverse perspectives that help provide a 360-degree view of the issues shaping public pensions. No matter your experience level, you’ll leave with new ideas and new connections to help you succeed.
- NCPERS Annual Conference & Exhibition (ACE) is the longest-running educational conference for state and local public pensions. Held each May, you'll have the opportunity to connect with and learn from more than 800 trustees, plan staff, industry leaders, and service providers at this essential industry event.
- In October, attend NCPERS Fall Conference or Public Safety Conference for forward-looking insights and valuable peer connections. The Public Safety Conference is held in even-numbered years, while the Fall Conference is held in odd-numbered years.
Explore Pension Policy and Funding Solutions with NCPERS Forums
NCPERS Forums bring together trustees, administrators, and finance professionals to tackle the issues that shape the future of public pensions. These focused events provide a collaborative space for policy engagement and exploration of funding strategies, helping leaders navigate complex legislative and financial challenges with clarity and confidence.
- At the Legislative Forum & Policy Day, participants engage directly with lawmakers, regulators, and federal agencies—gaining insights and influencing decisions that impact pension systems nationwide. This event is open to all experience levels and ideal for those passionate about advocating for retirement security.
- The Public Pension Funding Forum dives into research, funding models, and real-world case studies to uncover practical solutions for fiscal sustainability.
This event is best suited for attendees with a mid-to-advanced level of understanding of public pension funding practices.