NOW (Next Opportunity for Work) Conference
The Administration Division is committed to ensuring that staff voices are heard, ideas are valued, and the contributions of high-performing employees are celebrated.
The NOW (Next Opportunity at Work) Conference is one of UC Berkeley’s most celebrated annual staff development events. Designed specifically for Berkeley staff, the conference creates an energizing space for employees to reflect, learn, and chart their professional journeys. Each year, thousands of staff members participate in the conference, which offers a blend of keynote speakers, workshops, career panels, and individualized coaching sessions.
Hosted by People & Culture, one of the ten departments that make up the Administration Division, the NOW Conference reflects UC Berkeley’s commitment to supporting the growth, well-being, and success of its workforce. By investing in professional development, the conference ensures that staff are equipped not only to excel in their current roles but also to explore new opportunities across the campus.
A Conference Dedicated to Staff Growth
Since its founding in 2011, the NOW Conference has become an essential part of Berkeley’s culture of staff support. The conference was created to recognize the unique needs of staff employees, providing them with meaningful opportunities to expand their skills and discover what’s possible in their careers at Berkeley.
Unlike traditional professional conferences, NOW is designed with Berkeley staff at its center. Programming emphasizes practical skill-building, inspiring career stories from colleagues, and real-time coaching to help participants translate what they’ve learned into actionable next steps. Each session is carefully curated to address both the professional and personal aspects of growth—whether that means strengthening leadership skills, exploring new career paths, or deepening connections across the campus community.
Benefits for Administration Division Staff
For staff in the Administration Division, the NOW Conference is especially valuable. Our division is home to diverse departments that support the university in critical ways—from People & Culture and Environment, Health & Safety, to Facilities Services and Information Technology. Because of this range of work, staff development needs are equally wide-ranging.
The NOW Conference provides a rare opportunity for Administration staff to:
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Explore career pathways across campus. Attendees gain insights into the wide variety of roles available at Berkeley, opening doors to new opportunities within and beyond their current department.
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Develop new skills. Interactive workshops help staff sharpen competencies in areas such as leadership, communication, project management, and diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB).
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Build connections. The conference brings together staff from every part of campus, encouraging networking and collaboration that extend beyond the event itself.
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Access personalized coaching. The popular Coaching HQ offers one-on-one sessions with trained career coaches who help participants identify strengths, navigate challenges, and plan for growth.
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Recharge and reimagine. Many staff leave the conference feeling inspired and renewed, with a clearer sense of purpose in their work.
Looking Ahead to 2026
Planning is already underway for the 2026 NOW Conference extravaganza. Staff are encouraged to save the date:
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Main Event: Thursday, June 11, 2026 (virtual, all-day)
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Pre- and Post-Conference Coaching HQ: June 8, 9, 10, and 12, 2026 (virtual)
As in previous years, the conference will feature an inspiring keynote, diverse breakout sessions, and extensive opportunities for coaching and networking. The virtual format ensures that staff can participate fully, regardless of their department, schedule, or location.
Learn More
The NOW Conference exemplifies how UC Berkeley invests in its people, making staff growth and success a priority. For employees in the Administration Division, the conference is a valuable resource for professional development, career advancement, and community building.
