Each year at Cal State San Bernardino, thousands of students take part in research experiences that push them beyond the classroom and into real-world problem solving. Now, a new national conference – held at the university – will connect those experiences directly to the workforce.

On April 15-16, CSUSB will host Defining the Future, the nation’s first conference dedicated to accelerated workforce development in emerging technologies. The event will take place alongside the university’s annual Meeting of the Minds student research symposium, creating a unique space where student innovation and industry opportunity converge.

Together, the two events highlight how research at CSUSB can serve as a pathway to future careers.

Meeting of the Minds celebrates the scholarly and creative accomplishments of CSUSB graduate and undergraduate students. Over the two-day symposium, students will present their work through poster sessions, oral presentations and art exhibits, sharing projects that span a wide range of disciplines.

Poster presentations will take place April 15-16 from 10-11 a.m. in the Santos Manuel Student Union North, while oral presentations will be held in the Center for Global Innovation from 3-5 p.m. each day. The event provides students with an opportunity to refine their presentation skills, share their research with the campus community, and compete for awards recognizing outstanding work.

The symposium is part of a broader culture of student research at CSUSB. Each year, more than 3,000 CSUSB students participate in programs through the Office of Student Research, gaining experience in critical thinking, data analysis, teamwork and communication.

The Defining the Future Conference builds on that foundation by connecting those academic skills with employers and emerging industries.

Students attending the conference will have the opportunity to explore career pathways in fields such as artificial intelligence, quantum computing, semiconductor manufacturing and other advanced technologies. The event will feature industry presentations, hands-on workshops, exhibits and a recruitment fair where students can meet directly with companies working at the forefront of innovation.

“All students can attend for free,” said conference co-organizer Ryan Keating, director of CSUSB’s Office of Student Research and executive director of the Applied Innovation and Economic Development Center. “They’ll hear from industry experts, see the kinds of products companies are developing, and talk directly with recruiters.”

For many CSUSB students, research experiences already help them develop the skills employers seek. Conferences like Defining the Future help them showcase those abilities and translate them into career opportunities.

With hundreds of student researchers presenting their work and industry leaders sharing insights on the future of technology, the event will bring together ideas, innovation and opportunity in one place.

Organizers hope the conference will not only inspire students but also strengthen partnerships between the university and industry, helping prepare the next generation of professionals for rapidly evolving fields.

Students, researchers, professionals and community members interested in technology, innovation and workforce development are invited to attend. Register online for the Defining the Future Conference.