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IST Technical Conference | University of Liverpool | 15th SEP 2026

This years theme is — Future Ready: Skills, Systems and Stories – “You’ll Never Work Alone” —

We are very pleased to announce that we are preparing for this year’s conference to ensure it meets the needs of the technical and professional communities across all industries and sectors and we are delighted to be hosted at the University of Liverpool this year.

Early Bird Tickets are on sale NOW – book now as they are only available for:

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Many thanks to our 2026 Conference Key Sponsors:

The IST Conference, its talks and workshops offer the opportunity for you to update your technical knowledge, skills and advance your career development, providing valuable networking opportunities to engage and learn from the professional community. The event is aimed at anyone who works in Artificial Intelligence, Creative Industries and STEMM, whether you’re based in industry, higher education and research, business or working independently.

Keynote Speakers:

We are absolutely thrilled to announce this years excellent and inspirational keynote speakers:

2026 Conference Keynotes lineup

Professor Fiona Clark – Keynote Title: ‘How Hard Can it Be? How to Survive and Thrive in the Ever Changing World of STEMM’

Jiteen Ahmed – Keynote Title: ‘ Resilience and Collaboration – The Tale of a Technician’s Journey’

Dr Helen Sharman CMG OBE – Conference Chair and leading the expert panel discussion with special guest past keynote Professor Tracy Harwood

Workshop Categories:

  • AI and Technology
    Understanding the rapid advancements in AI and technology is crucial to stay ahead in an increasingly digital world and to ensure effective integration into your work.
  • Creative Technologies / Media / Comms
    Keeping pace with innovations in creative industries and communication ensures you remain competitive and can harness new tools to engage audiences and drive impact.
  • Health & Safety and the Environment
    A    dopting forward-thinking strategies in health, safety, and environmental management is vital to creating sustainable, resilient workplaces and addressing evolving regulatory demands.
  • Careers
    Developing strategies to future-proof your career ensures long-term success, adaptability, and the ability to thrive in a constantly shifting job market.

Image Competition:

At the 2026 Technical Conference we are excited again to be running the IST Image Competition. This years’ theme is ‘Technicolour‘ – we would like your images to feature and highlight how colourful the technical workforce can be.

Images will be judged by the IST president, Helen Sharman CMG OBE, members of the IST Executive and looked over by our Key Sponsors.

Prizes

  • First Prize: £100 vouchers
  • Highly Commended (2 awards): £50 vouchers each
    Winners will be announced at the Conference.

Submission Details

Please send your PDF submissions to: office@istonline.org.uk
Include your full name, image title, and a brief description (max 150 words) of your work.

Whether you’re a seasoned contributor or first-time participant, this is your chance to celebrate how our fantastic technical community continues to prepare for the future.

Supporting Apprentices / T-Level Learners:

We are committed to supporting the next generation of skilled technicians. As part of that commitment, we’re offering a 50% discount on the delegate ticket price for all apprentices and T-Level learners. Whether you’re just starting your journey in the industry or developing your technical skills through hands-on learning, we want to make it easier for you to attend and benefit from this event. This is our way of investing in the future of the workforce and helping emerging talent access valuable opportunities for growth and connection.

Do you want to be involved with organising the technical conference?

If anyone would like to help or be part of the team, then please contact office@istonline.org.uk to register your interest. We look forward to hearing from you.

Conference Organising Team:

  • Jan Brett (Co-Chair & Host University Representative)
  • Terry Croft (Co-Chair)
  • Ian Tidmarsh (Secretary)
  • Joan Ward (Finance Lead)
  • Arthur Nicholas (Sponsorship Lead)
  • JP Ashton-Kinlin (Marketing Lead)
  • James Fox (Competition Lead)
  • Richard Saldanha (AI Lead)
  • Graeme Shaw (Creative Lead)
  • Sarah Youde (Science Lead)
  • Jenny Bradley (Host University Representative)
  • Sarah Northey (Host University Representative)

Do you want to be involved with organising the technical conference? If anyone would like to help or be part of the team, then please contact office@istonline.org.uk to register your interest. We look forward to hearing from you.