Career Connections seminars, a component of the U.S. Exchange Alumni Network and Capacity Building Program, convene U.S. citizen alumni of U.S. government-sponsored exchange programs throughout the year for in-person and virtual professional development and networking opportunities. 

Through skills training, professional network development, and guidance on applying their international experience toward career success, these seminars support exchange alumni in advancing their careers and strengthening the American workforce. Career Connections seminars are open to all U.S citizen exchange alumni, and alumni of all career stages are welcome to attend. 

In-Person Career Connections Seminars 

In-person Career Connections seminars provide U.S. exchange alumni the opportunity to explore regional American industries and local economic ecosystems. Attendees strengthen their professional networks with other U.S. exchange alumni and local leaders, explore innovation-driven career pathways, and develop actionable strategies to advance their careers and contribute to local economic growth. 

In-person Career Connections seminars have a limited number of attendees to foster deep connections and conversation. To attend an in-person Career Connections Seminar, U.S. exchange alumni must complete a short application to indicate interest.  

In 2026, in-person Career Connections seminars will take place in the following regions: 

Career Connections Dallas-Fort Worth: Translating Exchange into Entrepreneurship | May 15-16, 2026 

Deepen your understanding of practical small business growth strategies. Gain real‑world insights and network with regional organizations and entrepreneurs.  

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Career Connections Washington, D.C.: Leading through Excellence | July 16–17, 2026 

Learn about U.S. foreign policy priorities and how exchange alumni can contribute to citizen diplomacy initiatives through a mobilized alumni network. Application opens May 2026. 

Career Connections Pittsburgh: From Steel to Startups | September 26, 2026 

Explore Pittsburgh’s evolution from steel to tech and gain insight into innovation‑driven career pathways and opportunities for entrepreneurship. Application opens July 2026. 

Career Connections Phoenix: Innovation in the Desert | December 11-12, 2026 

Get involved in the Southwest’s evolving tech and manufacturing landscape. Learn more about Phoenix’s rapidly expanding semiconductor and energy industries, the new frontier for high-growth career pathways. Application opens October 2026. 

Virtual Career Connections Seminars

Virtual Career Connection seminars support alumni in honing their professional skills and provide insights into careers across in-demand sectors such as technology and artificial intelligence. Virtual Career Connections also provide convenient opportunities for alumni to convene and engage in support of U.S. foreign policy initiatives and activities related to America’s semi-quincentennial and hosting of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The seminars will highlight alumni expertise and resources for U.S. exchange alumni to continue their professional advancement. Virtual Career Connections seminars will be added throughout the year. 

Contact 

For questions or requests, please email us at USexchangealumni@irex.org.  

 The U.S. Exchange Alumni Program is sponsored by the U.S. Department of State with funding provided by the U.S. government and supported in its implementation by IREX.