About OETC
The Ohio Educational Technology Conference (OETC) is one of the nation’s premier PK–20 state edtech conferences. Each year, more than 1,000 educators, technology leaders, and innovators from across Ohio and beyond come together to explore how teaching, learning, and technology connect to enhance student success.
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.
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.
OETC enters a bold new era March 9–11, 2027, at the newly renovated Dayton Convention Center! Now hosted by the Montgomery County ESC as a traveling statewide conference, OETC returns to its roots in Dayton before taking regional expertise across Ohio. The theme of OETC 2027 is Grounded in Tradition, Elevated for the Future. Attendees can expect the tech integration sessions Ohio educators count on, plus tracks built around the state's priorities: the science of reading, high-quality math instruction, AI with a human focus, STEM and computer science, workforce readiness, leadership and smart spending, infrastructure and security, and access for every learner. Students will hold the stage with showcases, competitions, and student-led sessions.