Elevate Conference: 28th Student Leadership & Career Development Experience
Saturday, January 31, 2026
10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Bayou Building - Various Locations
University of Houston-Clear Lake
2700 Bay Area Blvd.
Houston, TX 77058
Join us for an engaging and energizing day at the 28th Annual Student Leadership & Career Development Experience, newly branded as the Elevate Conference. This experience brings together students, campus partners, alumni, and community members to help you strengthen your leadership skills, build career readiness, and take the next step in your personal and professional journey.
RSVP and Secure Your Spot
Free for UHCL Students. Submission Deadline: Friday, January 24.
Lunch and refreshments provided.
Conference Schedule
The Elevate conference will feature a morning keynote, interactive breakout sessions, and a networking lunch.
| Time | Activity/Event |
|---|---|
| 9:30 a.m. | Check-In |
| 10 a.m. | Opening Keynote |
| 10:55 a.m. | Breakout Session 1 |
| 11:40 a.m. | Breakout Session 2 |
| 12:25-1:25 p.m. | Networking Lunch |
| 1:30 p.m. | Leadership & Career Panel |
| 2:15-3 p.m. | Goal Setting & Planning |
Breakout Sessions
Students will have the opportunity to attend the following breakout sessions:
- Leadership Exploration: Explore the concept of leadership and understand why it is essential for your college journey and future career.
- Career Preparation: Get the support you need to prepare for entering the professional landscape with confidence.
- Skills Development: Focus on key skills that will help you grow and thrive on your professional journey.
What to Expect
Participants will:
- Strengthen their self-awareness and leadership identity.
- Learn practical personal and professional skills they can use in campus roles and future careers.
- Engage in meaningful networking with alumni, employers, and fellow students.
- Reflect on purpose, values, and direction to support their long-term growth.
Keynote Speaker
Keynote Session: Networking Strategies — How to Build Meaningful Professional Connections Early in Your Career
Dr. Josh O'Neal
Session Overview:
Led by Dr. Josh O'Neal, this keynote explores how students can begin building authentic, professional relationships early in their careers. Drawing on his experience in industry leadership and mentorship, Dr. O'Neal will share practical strategies for networking with purpose, communicating value, and creating long-term professional connections. Participants will learn how to move beyond transactional networking toward relationship-driven engagement that supports career growth, leadership development, and future opportunities.
Learning Outcomes:
- Understand the foundational principles of building meaningful professional relationships
- Identify effective strategies for networking in academic, professional, and leadership settings
- Develop confidence in initiating and sustaining professional conversations
- Recognize how early networking can support long-term career growth and leadership development
Read Dr. O'Neal's Bio
Dr. Josh O'Neal brings together a rare blend of academic excellence and real-world leadership, holding a PhD in Materials Science & Engineering from Texas A&M and serving as a member of the Senior Staff at Lockheed Martin. With over a decade of experience driving high-impact initiatives, he has guided teams and mentored both students and emerging professionals to grow beyond their limitations. As a speaker, Josh is passionate about equipping the next generation of leaders with the tools, mindset, and vision to lead with clarity and purpose. His message reflects the belief that true influence is not measured by titles, but by the lives we inspire and the leaders we multiply.
Directions
Conference activities will be held in the Bayou Building on the UHCL campus.
University of Houston-Clear Lake
2700 Bay Area Blvd.
Houston, TX 77058
Parking
Free parking is available in Student Lot D for conference attendees.
Dining
Lunch and refreshments are included with conference registration.
Special Accommodations
If you require accommodations to participate in the event, please contact the Center for Student Engagement in advance at 281-283-2560 or via email at engagement@uhcl.edu.
The Elevate Conference is hosted by the Center for Career Development, the Center for Student Engagement, and the Office of Alumni Relations.
Contact
-
Center for Student Engagement
Phone: 281-283-2560
Fax: 281-283-2566
Email: engagement@uhcl.edu
SSCB 1204
2700 Bay Area Blvd, Box 198
Houston, TX 77058-1002
Regular office hours:
Mon. - Thurs., 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Fri. - 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Please call ahead during holidays and semester breaks.
