Brandon University to host annual Education Career Fair and BYTE Conference

A person stands and speaks in the front of a classroom. The backs of several attendees can be seen.
The Brandon University Faculty of Education hosts the annual Education Career Fair and BYTE Conference on Friday, Feb. 12.

Brandon University’s (BU’s) Faculty of Education will welcome school divisions, education leaders, and future teachers from across the country for its annual Education Career Fair and BYTE Conference on Friday, February 13, 2026.

The combined event will bring together more than 100 divisional leaders and educators from 36 school divisions from across Canada, along with mentor teachers, administrators, and teacher candidates, creating one of the largest education recruitment and professional learning gatherings in Manitoba.

Hosted by the Faculty of Education’s Field Experience Office, the Education Career Fair provides an opportunity for school divisions to connect directly with Bachelor of Education students who are preparing to enter the profession. The event supports early recruitment, relationship-building, and long-term partnerships between Brandon University and school systems nationwide.

“This event reflects the strength of our partnerships and our shared commitment to supporting the next generation of educators,” said Shawna Philpott, Director of Field Experience in the Faculty of Education, and BYTE Conference Co-Chair. “By bringing together school divisions and teacher candidates in one space, we are creating meaningful opportunities for mentorship, recruitment, and professional growth.”

A woman holds up a microphone as she speaks at a podium.
Shawna Philpott, Director of Field Experience at Brandon University, speaks at the 2025 BYTE Conference.

The Career Fair will once again be paired with the BYTE Conference (Build Your Teaching Experience Conference), which focuses on innovation, leadership, and best practices in teaching and learning. This year’s conference will feature keynote speaker Chris Woods, an internationally recognized education speaker known for his work on STEM in the classroom.

“Pairing the Career Fair with the BYTE Conference strengthens the experience for everyone involved,” Philpott added. “Participants are able to engage in professional learning while also building connections that support workforce development in education.”

Throughout the day, teacher candidates will have opportunities to meet with representatives from participating school divisions, learn about employment pathways, and explore career opportunities in urban, rural, and northern communities. School divisions, in turn, are able to showcase their programs, communities, and supports for new educators.

The annual event plays a key role in addressing teacher recruitment and retention, particularly in rural and remote regions, while reinforcing Brandon University’s longstanding commitment to community-engaged teacher education.

“The Education Career Fair and BYTE Conference demonstrate what is possible when universities and school divisions work together,” said Matteo Di Muro, Assistant Professor in the Faculty of Education and Conference Co-Chair. “It is about building strong, sustainable relationships that benefit students, educators, and communities.”

More information about the event, including registration and exhibitor details, contact Roxanne Martin, Faculty of Education, Field Experience Office: MartinR@BrandonU.ca.

Contact

  • Matteo L. Di Muro
  • Assistant Professor, Curriculum and Pedagogy, Faculty of Education
  • DiMuroM@BrandonU.ca

To receive any BU publication in an alternate format please contact Communications@BrandonU.ca

About BU

Success is built at Brandon University. Our growing, progressive campus welcomes a diverse and inclusive community that combines proud tradition with shared ambition. Through our excellence in teaching, research, and scholarship, we educate students to make a meaningful difference as engaged citizens and leaders. Join us at BrandonU.ca.