About this Event
🔥 This year, we’re doing something bigger.
UXCON26 is where researchers, designers, product managers, engineers, strategists, and systems thinkers come together—because the product is a team sport, and great experiences don’t happen in silos.
Following an unforgettable 2025, this year’s conference is expanding to 1.5 days of workshops, panels, talks, and conversations that actually move the field forward. We’re bringing together the humans who build digital experiences—not just UXers, but the full team that shapes how people interact with products every day.
🧠 is coming to UXCON26
Yes, that Don Norman. The godfather of user experience. He’ll join us for a live Q&A session and a closing keynote to help us reignite the roots of our field—where we started, where we’re going, and how we thrive together now.
What to Expect
✔️ A full day of talks, expanded panels, and tactical sessions
✔️ Don Norman's keynote + Q&A
✔️ Networking mixers, sponsors, and real human connection
Why Come?
Because we’re not here to just “do UX.” We’re here to build something better—together. And this year, we’re shaping a space that reflects that: inclusive, cross-functional, community-fueled, and future-facing.
Whether you're early in your journey or shaping enterprise systems, there's a seat at the table for you.
🎤 Speakers & Panels
Full lineup dropping soon. For now, just know:
✅ Don Norman – UX legend & keynote speaker
✅ Calvin Robertson – Opening the day
✅ [Many more TBD — expect a blend of rising voices and seasoned leaders]
Tickets
On-Site Tickets
Immerse yourself fully in the event with in-person access to all Keynotes, Panels, and product stands. Enjoy unlimited coffee and beverages while networking with UX professionals. This ticket is ideal for those looking to connect, build their network, and explore new opportunities.
On-Site + Workshop Tickets
The ultimate experience for those serious about advancing their UX career. In addition to everything included in the On-Site Ticket, you'll gain access to the hands-on UX Workshop. Plus, enjoy private one-on-one sessions with seasoned UX Pros, giving you the chance to ask questions, pitch yourself, and receive personalized career advice. This is the ticket to choose if you’re looking to stand out and make a lasting impact in your UX journey.
Travel Tips
Silver Spring is well-connected by public transportation. Whether you're taking the Metro, a bus, or driving in, you'll find convenient options to reach the Civic Center. Parking is available nearby, and we recommend checking local transport apps for real-time updates.
- Flying in? Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) is the closest airport, about a 30-minute drive from Silver Spring.
- Taking the Metro? The Silver Spring Metro Station (Red Line) is a short walk to the Civic Center and the DoubleTree hotel.
- Driving? Use your favorite GPS app to navigate to the Civic Center, and there are plenty of parking options and nearby garages.
- Want to Explore? With a variety of restaurants, cafes, and shops, there's plenty to do and explore just outside the event.
Contact us: [email protected]
Experts Workshops (Oct 7)
🕑: 11:00 AM - 01:00 PM
Build an AI Strategy for Faster and Deeper Insights
Host: Leo Hoar
🕑: 02:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Exclusive Dovetail Workshop: From Insight to Action
Host: Cheri March
🕑: 03:00 PM - 06:00 PM
Building with AI Beyond the Conversation
Host: Jake Dibattista
Main Conference (Oct 8)
🕑: 08:00 AM - 09:00 AM
Registration + Coffee + Networking
Info: Arrive, check in, grab coffee, and start connecting with fellow attendees.
🕑: 09:00 AM - 09:10 AM
Opening Remarks
Host: Yao
🕑: 09:10 AM - 09:35 AM
Opening keynote: Becoming the Leader They’ve Been Waiting For
Host: Calvin Robertson
🕑: 09:35 AM - 09:45 AM
Morning Reset / Break
🕑: 09:45 AM - 10:45 AM
Don Norman + Yao - Podcast-Style Conversation
Host: Yao Adantor
🕑: 10:45 AM - 11:00 AM
Break + Networking
🕑: 11:00 AM - 12:15 PM
Career Panel: The Career Between the Titles
Host: Moderator: Edward Cupps
Info: An honest conversation with professionals from Netflix, Amazon, Skylight, and the UXR Institute about how they found their way, made difficult decisions, adapted to change, and kept moving forward.
🕑: 12:15 PM - 01:15 PM
Lunch + Networking
🕑: 01:15 PM - 01:40 PM
Mini-keynote: Questions Are How We Find Each Other
Host: Amanda Gelb
🕑: 01:40 PM - 02:10 PM
PM to PM: Cheri March + Teyibo
Host: Oladosu Teyibo
🕑: 02:10 PM - 02:25 PM
Afternoon Break + Networking
🕑: 02:25 PM - 03:40 PM
Industry Panel: Beyond the Prototype: Who Actually Builds the Future?
Host: Moderator: Edward Cupps
Info: Brings together voices from organizations including The New York Times, Target, User Interviews and more to examine what is happening across the wider UX and product landscape. Conversations designed to help you understand not only where UX is today, but where your own place within it could be heading.
🕑: 03:40 PM - 03:50 PM
Final Reset / Break
🕑: 03:50 PM - 04:50 PM
Don Norman - Audience Q&A / Closing Conversation
Host: Don Norman
🕑: 04:50 PM - 05:00 PM
Closing Remarks
Host: Yao
🕑: 05:00 PM
Live Music + Networking + Hangout
Event venue & nearby stays
Silver Spring Civic Building at Veterans Plaza, 1 Veterans Place, Silver Spring, United States