Be Part of the Only Conference for STEM Society Professionals
Join us on July 13-15, 2026 in Raleigh, NC at the Raleigh Convention Center, for ACCESSE, a unique 3-day meeting designed exclusively for STEM society professionals.
Hosted by the Council of Engineering and Scientific Society Executives (CESSE), ACCESSE delivers leadership development, peer‑to‑peer connections, and expertise in the association management of science, technology, engineering, and math societies. At ACCESSE, attendees benefit from a focused environment where conversations go deeper, collaboration is strengthened, and peers further build their understanding of the unique context of STEM society work.
2026 Theme: Rooted in Purpose
Grounded stability and meaningful direction, this year's theme is 'Rooted in Purpose.' The theme will inform the program on three levels:
Individual: Know your why and let it guide you
Organizational: Operate with clarity and conviction
Global: Inspire purpose-driven impact at scale
The program is created by fellow STEM society professionals and rooted in purpose to help you lead with clarity. From CEOs and executive teams to staff across content, education, meetings, membership and marketing, publications, finance, HR, and operations, ACCESSE26 will help you align your “why” with actionable strategies.
If you shape member value, drive programs, manage meetings, steward publications, or scale your society's impact, you won't want to miss this event.
Registration Opening Soon
While the ACCESSE25 conference has concluded, we encourage you to stay connected by becoming a CESSE member.
Our partners know STEM societies and how to accelerate their outcomes. If you’re a current or prospective partner, contact Adriane Spiller, Partnership Manager, to explore packages and opportunities. If you are an ACCESSE partner or interested in partnering with CESSE, please contact Adrianne Spiller to learn more.
Following a strong response last year, CESSE is pleased to once again offer the Finance & HR Pre‑Conference Meeting for STEM society professionals working in finance and human resources roles.
Designed as a standalone program, the Finance & HR Pre‑Conference Meeting takes place prior to ACCESSE and provides dedicated time for focused discussion, peer exchange, and practical learning amongst Finance and HR professionals.
This program is separate from the conference, so attendance at ACCESSE is not required. Attendees may choose to attend the Finance & HR Pre‑Conference Meeting on its own or combine it with the full ACCESSE experience.
A Transformative Event for You and Your STEM Society
Attending the ACCESSE conference is important for STEM societies professionals at all levels. That’s why CESSE has created resources to help you explain why your association should send staff to ACCESSE, whether you’re a STEM CEO encouraging emerging leaders to attend or a professional eager to learn from our speakers and attendees. We’ll help you make the case for professional development specific to scientific societies.
As a trusted space for STEM society professionals, the ACCESSE conference brings together CEOs and staff from a wide range of scientific associations to share fresh perspectives and turn innovative ideas into reality.
At ACCESSE, you will:
Learn from dozens of insightful, engaging experts who are presenting on important topics that affect you and your STEM association.
Connect with hundreds of STEM professionals like you at social events, fostering important professional relationships and collaborations.
Find solutions for your organization’s challenges through ACCESSE partners, vendors who support association management and scientific societies.
