State Career Development Conference

February 24-27,2026

Chattanooga Convention Center | Chattanooga, TN

Tennessee DECA’s State Career Development Conference is the premier event for emerging leaders across the state. This exciting conference brings together students, advisors, and industry partners for competitive events, leadership development, and career exploration. It’s a unique opportunity to showcase skills, celebrate achievements, and connect with peers and professionals in the marketing, finance, hospitality, and management fields.

Conference Highlights

  • DECA members review their competition materials prior to their competition time.

    Competitive Events

    Competitive events challenge student members to demonstrate their knowledge, skills, and creativity in areas ranging from technical expertise and career-focused projects to leadership and public speaking.

  • DECA members pose for a photo outside of the leadership academy session rooms.

    Leadership Academy

    Interactive workshops are focused on building essential leadership, communication, and teamwork skills to empower students for personal and professional success.

  • An exhibitor shares college and university options with a student member.

    College & Career Fair

    Student members have the opportunity to connect with representatives from leading colleges, universities, and industry partners, offering invaluable insights and opportunities for future education and career pathways.

Key Information

Cost

  • Regular Registration: $85 per person​

  • Registration for a Person Not Staying in an Approved Hotel Block: $135 per person

  • Hotel: coming soon

Important Dates

  • December 8 | Registration Opens

  • December 19 | Registration Closes

  • December 22 | Prepared Events Submission Open

  • January 20 | Hotel Reservations Released

  • January 20 | Online Testing Window Opens

  • January 30 | Prepared Events Submissions Close

  • February 6 | Chapter Certification Form Deadline

  • February 13 | Payment Deadline

  • February 24-27 | State Career Development Conference

Get Involved

  • Two volunteer judges at the State Career Development Conference.

    Volunteer

    Volunteer as a competitive events judge to evaluate student projects and presentations.

    Volunteer
  • DECA member interact with an exhibitor booth at the college and career fair.

    Exhibit

    Exhibit during our college and career fair, showcasing opportunities available to students.

    Exhibit
  • DECA members pose for a photo while attending the conference.

    Sponsor

    Provide financial support for the conference, allowing students to attend this unique educational experience.

    Sponsor

Questions?

Submit a support request, and a member of our team will get back to you shortly.

Future Dates

Planning ahead? Here are the confirmed dates for the upcoming Tennessee DECA State Career Development Conference to help you prepare for the year ahead. While these dates are set, there’s always a small chance they could shift if changes are needed.

February 23-26, 2027 | Chattanooga, Tennessee

February 22-25, 2028 | Chattanooga, Tennessee