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We Invite You!

On behalf of NYS APSE, we invite you to join us for the 2026 Employment First Training Institute, a two-day event dedicated to bringing professionals, self-advocates, families, and service providers together to learn from one another, and to share practical strategies that support inclusive, meaningful employment for people with disabilities.

This year's learning sessions will include:

  1. Updates from ACCES-VR, OPWDD and other New York State Partners
  2. Leadership Strategies for Employment Services Professionals
  3. Reinventing Pathways to Employment
  4. Business Engagement, Tips, Tools and Strategies
  5. Employment First Initiatives in New York State
  6. Effective Practices in Working with Youth
  1. Using AI and Technology in our Work
  2. Recruitment, Training and Continuing Education of Employment Support Professionals
  3. Maintaining our Wellness!
  4. Navigating DEI with Intention
  5. Back to Basics: From Philosophy to Practice (Ethics)
  6. Workplace Supports and Accommodations on the Job

We look forward to seeing you in Saratoga Springs!

Event Details

Location: Embassy Suites by Hilton Saratoga Springs

Date: May 4th to May 5th, 2026

Time: 8:00 AM to 5:00PM (Day 1)

          8:00 AM to 12:00PM (Day 2)

Event Accessibility & Accommodation Requests

NYS APSE strives to host inclusive, accessible events that enable all people, including those with disabilities, to fully engage in the event. To request an accommodation or for inquiries about accessibility, please contact the NYS APSE team at [email protected].

All accommodation requests must be received no later than April 3rd, 2026.

Hotel Info &
Accommodations

Please note, the conference registration does not include your hotel reservations.

NYS APSE has reserved a block of rooms at the Embassy Suites in Saratoga Springs. Click HERE for more hotel details and reservations.

Explore Saratoga

Additional information about Saratoga Springs can be found here: Visit Saratoga Springs, NY | Things to Do, Hotels & Restaurants

Event Check-In

The registration desk will open on Sunday, May 3, 2026 at 4:00 PM, followed by a welcome reception. Name badges and Conference materials will be available for onsite pickup.

Get Wicked with NYS APSE! Welcome Happy Hour and networking with your NYS APSE colleagues. Enjoy a cash bar, hors d’oeuvres, an interactive networking activity, and 50/50 raffle tickets available for purchase.

Date: Sunday, May 3rd, 2026
Time: 5:30 PM to 7:00 PM
Location: Hotel Bar (Diamond Club Restaurant) and Skidmore Room

Witching Hour We encourage all attendees to wear pink or green and join us in celebrating with your fellow NYS APSE colleagues. Enjoy an evening featuring an ice cream social, karaoke, trivia, a silent auction, 50/50 raffle, and a cash bar.

Date: Monday, May 4th, 2026
Time: 8:00 PM to 11:00 PM
Location: Hotel Ballroom

2nd Annual NYS APSE Duck Hunt Date: May 4th, 2026 to May 5th, 2026

Begin Your Registration

For questions regarding the event or registration, please contact: [email protected].