Learn About Volunteering

VOLUNTEER AT THE 2026 SHPE NATIONAL CONVENTION

Every year, hundreds of volunteers help make the SHPE National Convention a success. Whether you're assisting with registration, supporting competitions, helping attendees navigate the convention center, or providing behind-the-scenes support, your time and dedication help create an exceptional experience for thousands of attendees.

Volunteer opportunities are available for:

  • Convention Attendees 
  • Volunteer-Only Participants 
  • Exhibitor & Sponsor Representatives 

Volunteer application deadline: September 11, 2026

Why Volunteer?

Volunteering is a great way to give back to the SHPE community while supporting one of the largest STEM conferences in the country.

Benefits include:

  • Meet and connect with fellow SHPE members and industry professionals. 
  • Gain valuable event experience. 
  • Support the success of the SHPE National Convention. 
  • Earn volunteer recognition for your service. 

Eligible attendee volunteers who complete their required volunteer commitment will also receive 50% off registration for the 2026 or 2027 SHPE National Convention.

Volunteer Opportunities

Attendee Volunteers

If you are registered—or plan to register by September 11—for the 2026 SHPE National Convention, you are eligible to apply as an Attendee Volunteer.

If selected:

  • You will receive volunteer assignment information before the event. 
  • Once you have registered for the National Convention, you will receive instructions for selecting volunteer shifts through the National Convention Attendee Hub when shift sign-up opens in early October.
  • You must complete at least two (2) volunteer shifts, totaling a minimum of four (4) hours, to qualify for the volunteer recognition benefit.

Apply: Volunteer Application

Volunteer-Only Participants

Want to volunteer but not attend the National Convention?

Individuals who are not registering for the convention may apply as Volunteer-Only Participants.

If selected:

  • You will receive additional instructions before the event. 
  • Volunteer shifts will be selected through a dedicated Volunteer Registration site. 
  • You will receive a Volunteer Badge and lanyard that provides access only to your assigned volunteer areas and scheduled shifts.

Volunteer Badge Access

A Volunteer Badge does not include access to:

  • Workshops 
  • Competitions 
  • STEM and Career Fair
  • General convention programming 
  • Social events requiring convention registration 

Apply: Volunteer Application

Exhibitor & Sponsor Volunteers

Representatives volunteering on behalf of an exhibiting or sponsoring company should complete the Exhibitor/Sponsor Volunteer Application.

This application is separate from the attendee volunteer process.

Selected exhibitor and sponsor volunteers will receive volunteer assignment information before the event.

Apply: Volunteer Application

Volunteer Selection Process

Submitting an application does not guarantee a volunteer assignment.

Volunteer assignments are based on event needs, availability, and the number of applications received.

Selected volunteers will receive:

  • Volunteer confirmation 
  • Shift selection instructions 
  • Important event information before arriving onsite

Volunteer Recognition

>>>Attendee Volunteers

Attendee Volunteers (non-exhibitor/sponsor representatives) who successfully complete:

  • At least two (2) volunteer shifts
  • A minimum of four (4) total volunteer hours

will receive:

50% off registration for the 2026 OR 2027 SHPE National Convention

>>>Exhibitor & Sponsor Volunteers

Exhibitor and Sponsor Volunteers will receive a letter documenting the number of volunteer hours completed. This may be used for employer volunteer recognition programs.

Employer Volunteer Matching

Many employers recognize volunteer service through programs such as Double the Donation.

Check whether your employer participates:

Volunteer Policies

Please note:

  • Volunteers are responsible for their own convention registration (if attending), travel, lodging, meals, parking, and other personal expenses. 
  • Volunteer assignments are based on operational needs. 
  • Volunteers are expected to arrive on time and complete all assigned shifts. 
  • Volunteers should wear their volunteer badge while serving. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Questions?

If you have questions about volunteering, please contact: volunteers@shpe.org