First time attending ASTD’s International Conference & Exposition?
Welcome to ASTD’s signature event. Each year, the international conference welcomes more than 8,000 attendees from over 70 countries, giving the name literal meaning! It truly is an international conference.
This year, we’re making it easier to search through the 230 sessions available for you to attend.
What to Expect
The ASTD International Conference & Exposition continues to evolve with changes and innovations in the global marketplace. Attendees can expect a conference filled with the latest trends and best practices in the field of workplace learning and performance, engaging sessions with experts in the industry, and a world-class EXPO filled with cutting-edge suppliers.
ASTD conference attendees work hard, but always leave room to relax and network! This year, our popular Tuesday evening Celebration returns for a night filled with food, music, dancing, and fun. It's not to be missed!
Orientation
ASTD provides conference various orientation sessions for
U.S. and International Attendees.
Newcomers Orientation
Saturday, May 15, 5-6:15 p.m.
Sunday, May 16, 9:45-11:00 a.m.
First-Time International Attendee Orientation: Making the Most of the ASTD
Experience
Sunday, May 16, 9-10:15 a.m.
Networking
Think of ASTD as your yearly training and development reunion. Each year you'll see old friends, familiar faces, and numerous opportunities to forge new relationships. ASTD offers attendees multiple ways to connect, but the best networking opportunity of all remains attending the conference.
Learn about other networking opportunities.
Visiting Chicago
What’s your passion? Ballet? Baseball? Brontosauruses? Classical music? Political satire? Modern architecture? Chicago has them all. In this city, you’re sure to find attractions that match your interests, and you’ll probably develop some new ones while you’re here. Make your first stop one of the official Visitor Centers, located at Chicago Water Works, 163 E. Pearson St., or the Chicago Cultural Center, 77 E. Randolph St. Pick up some brochures, talk with one of our friendly visitor services representatives and then go out and do the town.
