NCPERS Public Safety Conference

Shaping the Future of Public Safety Pensions and Benefits

Police officers, firefighters, and first responders face higher risks, earlier retirements, and unique pension realities, and this is where leaders gain the tools to meet those challenges.

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October 25-28, 2026 — Nashville, TN

About NCPERS Public Safety Conference

As the only national event dedicated to the unique challenges of public safety pension systems, NCPERS Public Safety Conference brings together nearly 400 trustees, administrators and staff, state and local officials, service providers, union officers, and regulators from the U.S. and Canada biannually in October.

Since 1985, this conference has provided trusted education and insights for professionals managing the retirement security of police officers, firefighters, and other first responders, who face higher risks, earlier retirements, and distinct pension considerations compared to other public-sector employees.

Get Notified of Speaker Opportunities Explore Event Calendar

Executive Director and Pension Trustee (Firefighter, IAFF leader) mingle at NCPERS Conference

"The NCPERS Public Safety Conference is an amazing opportunity for new, as well as experienced, public safety professionals to learn and understand the importance of public pensions and retirement security.” - David J. Harer, President, Professional Firefighters of Alabama; Vice Chair Pro Tempore, Retirement Systems of Alabama

Who Should Attend NCPERS Public Safety Conference?

As one of the largest gatherings in the public pension space, NCPERS Conferences help connect hundreds of professionals from across the U.S. and Canada, providing the ideal environment to expand your network and explore the latest issues affecting public safety pension systems.

Pension Trustees seeking strategic guidance to support sound decision-making and fiduciary responsibilities.
Administrators , Plan Staff, and Industry Stakeholders aiming to strengthen plan performance, ensure compliance, and address the unique needs of first responders.
Plan Sponsors and State/Local Officials navigating complex policy, legal, and governance challenges.
Service Providers looking to connect with decision-makers and showcase solutions tailored to the retirement security of police, firefighters, and other first responders.

Please note: While this event is geared towards public safety plans, all members of the public pension community are welcome. As a reminder, your organization must be a current member of NCPERS at the time of registration. Contact membership@ncpers.org to learn more.

Partnering for Success: Public Safety Conference Exhibitors & Sponsors

Build brand recognition and connect with nearly 400 top public pension decision-makers at NCPERS Public Safety Conference. Dedicated exhibit hall breaks help to strengthen your existing relationships and showcase your products or services, while thoughtful sponsorship opportunities leave a lasting impression on attendees.

Sponsorship Exhibit Hall

Wolf Popper staff in the exhibit hall ready to meet with public pension leaders

Continuing Education: What Will I Learn at NCPERS Public Safety Conference?

As a leading provider of continuing education in the public pension industry, NCPERS conference agendas are carefully curated to cover key issues impacting our industry. View the most recent 2024 Public Safety Conference agenda for a glimpse of what's to come, and learn more about our upcoming speaking opportunities.

Firefighter David Harer engages in a small classroom setting, part of NCPERS University

Panelists discuss securities litigation opportunities and challenges for institutional investors.

Firefighter trustees learn fiduciary best practices at NCPERS Conference

Arrive Early: Advance Your Skills with NCPERS University

Make the most of your time onsite with our pre-conference programming: NCPERS University is designed to give trustees and pension professionals the tools, confidence, and practical skills to excel—not just during our events, but in every decision that shapes your fund’s future.

NCPERS Fiduciary in Focus Workshop

Each fall, this program (formerly known as Program for Advanced Trustee Studies, or PATS) dives deep into two timely, high-impact topics, giving trustees and plan staff the expertise to tackle critical challenges.

NCPERS Advanced Fiduciary (NAF) Institute

Held in both the spring and fall, NAF is where pension professionals and experienced trustees go to become certified experts in the skills needed to strengthen their retirement systems.

Frequently Asked Questions: NCPERS Public Safety Conference

Is membership with NCPERS required to attend?

Yes. Your organization must be a current member of NCPERS at the time of registration.

What is included in the registration fee?

Registration includes access to all sessions, conference materials, the event app, scheduled meals, and networking events.

Can I register onsite?

Onsite registration is available unless the event sells out. We encourage early registration to guarantee space.

What is the dress code?

Attire is business casual for all meetings and receptions.

Is there a special conference room rate?

Yes. Attendees who book in the group block will receive the NCPERS discounted room rate while rooms are available. Booking details and deadlines are listed on the conference website under the hotel tab.