About OETC
Hosted by the Ohio Ed Techs, the Ohio Educational Technology Conference (OETC) is one of the nation’s premier PK–20 state edtech conferences. Each year, thousands of educators, technology leaders, and innovators from across Ohio and beyond come together to explore how teaching, learning, and technology connect to enhance student success.
With guidance from a statewide network of collaborators, the Ohio Ed Techs are proud to present more than 300 sessions. These include keynote speakers, hands-on playgrounds, interactive sandboxes, and panel discussions that highlight emerging tools, relevant trends, and effective practices.
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OETC is designed to:
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Build statewide partnerships and professional networks
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Inspire innovation through high-quality, practical content
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Showcase where and how technology fits into today’s classrooms
After participating in impactful professional development, attendees can visit the Exhibit Hall, where vendors and sponsors highlight tools and resources that support the ideas and strategies introduced throughout the conference.
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Whether you're a classroom teacher, IT administrator, instructional coach, or faculty member in higher education, OETC is your place for inspiration, connection, and implementation.
History of OETC
The Ohio Educational Technology Conference (OETC) began in 1997 when the Office of Information Learning and Technology Services (OILTS) hosted a legislative showcase to demonstrate how PK–12 educators in Ohio were using technology to support teaching and learning. The showcase highlighted classroom innovations and inspired broader conversations about educational technology across the state.
In 1998, the event officially became the Ohio Educational Technology Conference and moved to Columbus. The conference quickly expanded its focus, adding hundreds of professional development sessions designed to help educators use technology more effectively. OETC also established strong partnerships with the Ohio Department of Education, educational technology agencies, education service centers, and special interest groups.
In 2013, OETC joined the Ohio Department of Higher Education, strengthening its role in connecting PK–12 education, higher education, and workforce development. The conference continued to promote innovative uses of technology, helping educators across all levels improve student learning and career readiness.
OETC has operated under several state agencies over the years, including Schoolnet, eTech Ohio, the Ohio Department of Higher Education, and the Ohio Department of Education. Throughout each transition, OETC has remained committed to delivering high-quality professional development and supporting Ohio educators in preparing students for the future.
In 2021, OETC responded to the COVID-19 pandemic by shifting to a fully virtual format. OETC21 featured over 200 live and synchronized sessions and more than 100 exhibitors, drawing attendees from 45 states and 13 countries. OETC22 also took place virtually, and OETC23 marked the 25th anniversary of the conference with a return to in-person programming.
OETC26 marks an exciting new chapter. The conference is now hosted by the Ohio Ed Techs, a statewide collaborative of educational technology agencies. With this transition, OETC continues its long-standing mission to provide innovative, relevant, and practical learning opportunities for Ohio educators. This year’s event will offer a refreshed experience that builds on a rich history and looks ahead to the future of teaching and learning with technology.
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OETC remains one of the premier educational technology conferences in the country, supporting educators across all stages of learning and all corners of Ohio.