From Learning to Lasting Impact, Driving Change Through Apprenticeships
Networking Reception
November 17, 2025
6 – 8 p.m.
Summit
November 18, 2025
9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Younes Conference Center North, Kearney, NE
| Early Bird - Pre-Event & Summit (Monday/Tuesday) on/before October 1 | $125 |
| Pre-Event & Summit (Monday/Tuesday) after October 1 | $140 |
| Pre-Event Only (Monday) | $30 |
| Summit Only (Tuesday) | $125 |
Apprenticeships are reshaping the future of workforce development across the country.
Join us for an engaging discussion on the evolving landscape of work-based learning
and discover how organizations are building successful apprenticeship programs from
the ground up.
Hear directly from peers who have embraced this shift—and from apprentices themselves—about
how these programs have transformed their careers and lives.
Whether you're just starting to explore apprenticeships or looking to enhance your
existing program, this event offers valuable insights and inspiration.
Don’t miss this opportunity to connect, learn, and lead in the future of work.
Kick off the ELEVATE Summit on November 17 from 6 to 8 p.m. in style at our exclusive
Networking Reception!
Mingle with industry leaders, educators and apprenticeship champions in a lively,
relaxed atmosphere—complete with cocktails, gourmet appetizers and the smooth sounds
of a live jazz band setting the tone. This is your chance to make meaningful connections,
share bold ideas and build momentum before the main event begins. Let the conversations
flow and the music move you as we set the stage for an unforgettable ELEVATE experience!
9:00 a.m. - Welcome
9:15 a.m. - What's Happening Nationwide with Apprenticeships - John Colburn with Apprenticeships for America
10:00 a.m. - What’s Happening in Nebraska with Apprenticeship – Katie Thurber with NDOL
10:45 a.m. - Break
11:00 a.m. - Scaling Apprenticeships Statewide (Regional Breakouts)
11:45 a.m. - Regional Report Outs
12:15 p.m. - Lunch
1:00 p.m. - Panel – What’s Working in Nebraska
2:00 p.m. - What’s Working Nationally and How it Can Work in Nebraska - Eric Dunker with REACH University
2:45 p.m. - Closing Remarks and Networking
We’re excited to welcome John Colborn, Executive Director of Apprenticeships for America, as the keynote speaker at the Elevate Summit. With 30+ years of experience leading national workforce initiatives and expanding apprenticeship programs in IT, manufacturing, healthcare, and more, John brings unmatched insight into building stronger talent pipelines.
Eric Dunker
Dr. Eric Dunker is a nationally recognized higher education leader and workforce innovator, currently serving as Chief Engagement and Advancement Officer for Reach University. He is the co-founder of the National Center for the Apprenticeship Degree (NCAD) @Reach, which advances apprenticeship-based degree pathways with a goal of reaching 3 million working learners by 2035. Throughout his career, Dr. Dunker has secured significant public and private funding to build scalable, workforce-aligned education models that connect learners directly to high-demand careers.
Previously, he served as Vice President for Workforce and Economic Development at Arapahoe Community College (ACC), where he oversaw the Sturm Collaboration Campus, a $40 million partnership linking K‑12, higher education, workforce, and industry. Under his leadership, the Sturm Campus was awarded Colorado’s Economic Development Partnership of the Year and became a national model for education and industry collaboration. His work launching apprenticeship pathways in healthcare, technology, and business also earned him recognition as Colorado’s 2021 Apprentice Champion and selection as an Aspen Rising Presidents Fellow.
Dr. Dunker holds a PhD in Curriculum & Instruction from the University of Denver, an MS in Student Affairs from Colorado State University, and a BSBA in Business from Bucknell University. He and his wife Katie live in Colorado with their three children.
Katie Thurber
Katie Thurber is the Nebraska Commissioner of Labor. She was appointed to this position in 2025. Prior to her appointment as commissioner, Thurber served as Deputy Commissioner for Operations for the Department of Labor from 2023-2025. She has worked with all divisions across the department to ensure high quality service delivery. Thurber graduated from the University of Nebraska College of Law in 2010 and interned at the Nebraska Department of Labor the same year. Other than Deputy Commissioner for Operations, over the past 13 years, Thurber has served in roles such as hearing officer, legal counsel, and Director of Unemployment Insurance.
Thurber is a graduate of Gering High School in Gering, NE and received her undergraduate degree in mathematics from Birmingham-Southern College, where she had a full athletic scholarship.
Katie strives to promote cohesion across the NDOL’s programs while delivering timely and effective service for Nebraskans. She looks forward to building on these goals going forward.
Platinum Sponsor
$5,000
- Logo in conference booklet
- Announced in the pre-conference podcast episodes
- Premium sponsor for pre-conference event
- High top table during the pre-event
- Included in annoucement of sponsors
- Introduce a speaker on the main stage
- 6 free registrations with reserved seating and free pre-event
(2 sponsorships available)
Gold Sponsor
$3,000
- Logo in conference booklet
- High top table during the pre-event
- Included in annoucement of sponsors
- 4 free registrations and free pre-event
(3 sponsorships available)
Silver Sponsor
$1,000
- Name mention on Main stage presentation
- 2 free registrations and free pre-event
- Included in announcement of sponsors
Younes Conference Center in Kearney, https://www.younes.com/conferences
$169 group rate, valid through October 16, subject to availability.
Are there refunds?
No, but the tickets are transferrable. Contact Twilya
Will meals be included?
Yes, breakfast, lunch and afternoon snack. If you need special dietary restrictions,
contact Twilya.
Registration Deadlines
- Early Bird savings available now through October 1.
- Participants need to register by November 12.
- Sponsors need to register by October 1.
Questions
Contact Twilya.
Hosted by ELEVATE Apprenticeship Consortium: Central Community College, Northeast Community College and Southeast Community College
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| In partnership with APPRENTICESHIPUSA |  |
Thank You to Our Event Sponsors!
This project is funded by the U.S. Department of Labor as part of an award totaling $7.9M, either wholly or in part, with Federal funds from the Department of Labor, Employment & Training Administration, the contents of this publication do not necessarily reflect the views or policies of the Department of Labor, nor does mention of trade names, commercial products, or organizations imply endorsement of same by the U.S. Government.