This ain’t our first rodeo
Don’t miss the 2026 ILSHRM State Conference!
April 30 - May 1, 2026
Saddle up for the premier HR event in Illinois! The 2026 ILSHRM State Conference is circling back to the Tinley Park Convention Center with a bold new theme: HR’s Wild West: Wrangling Today’s Workforce. Join hundreds of HR professionals, business leaders, and workplace innovators from across the Midwest as we tackle the modern frontier of human resources.
Keynotes
Johnny C. Taylor, Jr., SHRM-SCP
Steve Browne, SHRM-SCP
Julie Develin, SHRM-SCP, GTML
Why Attend?
In today’s unpredictable landscape, HR professionals are expected to do it all—manage change, drive culture, retain talent, ensure compliance, and lead with strategy. This year’s conference will help you lasso the skills, knowledge, and tools you need to thrive in the ever-evolving world of work.
Whether you’re navigating remote work territories, blazing trails in DEI, or confronting the outlaws of burnout and disengagement, this event will empower you to lead with confidence and agility.
What to Expect
Get ready to dust off your boots and join us for two unforgettable days of learning, networking, and fun. Whether you’re a seasoned HR sheriff or a fresh-faced recruit, this conference will leave you inspired, equipped, and ready to wrangle whatever the workplace throws your way.
- Inspiring Keynotes from top HR thought leaders and industry pioneers
- Breakout Sessions covering employment law, talent strategy, technology, leadership, and more
- Networking Roundups to connect with fellow HR trailblazers
- Exhibitor Corral showcasing the latest HR products, services, and solutions
- Earn Recertification Credits for SHRM and HRCI
- In-person and virtual attendance options available
More details, speaker announcements, and session previews are coming soon! Subscribe to our updates or follow us on social media so you don’t miss a thing.
Call For Presentations
Step into the Arena!
The workplace is evolving fast—and HR is on the front lines. At the 2026 ILSHRM State Conference, we’re embracing the spirit of the frontier with our theme: “HR’s Wild West: Wrangling Today’s Workforce.”
We’re looking for trailblazing speakers who can help HR professionals navigate today’s toughest challenges with confidence, creativity, and grit. If you have fresh insights, practical tools, or pioneering strategies rooted in SHRM’s Body of Applied Skills and Knowledge (BASK), we want to hear from you.
Submit your proposal today and help us equip the HR community for whatever lies ahead on the trail.
Attendee Registration
Early Bird Registration (Ends January 15, 2026 at 11:59 PM)
- SHRM Dual Member (SHRM & Chapter Member) – $525.00
- SHRM Member Only – $625.00
- Affiliate/Local Chapter Member Only – $625.00
- Non-Affiliated Attendee – $725.00
- Undergraduate College Student – $100.00
- Corporate Discount – $500.00
Registration (Begins January 16, 2026 at 12:00 AM)
- SHRM Dual Member (SHRM & Chapter Member) – $625.00
- SHRM Member Only – $725.00
- Affiliate/Local Chapter Member Only – $725.00
- Non-Affiliated Attendee – $825.00
- Undergraduate College Student – $100.00
- Corporate Discount – $500.00
Welcome Business Partners
We’re excited to welcome you to the 2026 Illinois SHRM State Conference, returning April 30–May 1, 2026, at the Tinley Park Convention Center! With this year’s bold theme, “HR’s Wild West: Wrangling Today’s Workforce,” we’re preparing for our biggest and most engaging event yet—and we want you right in the middle of it all.
As an business partner, you’ll connect face-to-face with hundreds of HR professionals, decision-makers, and business leaders from across Illinois and surrounding states. This is your chance to showcase your solutions, generate new leads, and build long-term relationships in a fun and meaningful setting.
What’s New for 2026?
- Walking Breakfast in the Expo Hall: We’re kicking off Day 2 with breakfast in the exhibit hall, so attendees start their day with you.
- More Seating & Lounge Areas: More places for attendees to rest, connect, and engage with exhibitors comfortably.
- Country Line Dance Lessons at the Reception: Get ready to boot-scoot and mingle! Thursday’s reception will be high-energy and full of theme-inspired fun.
- Theme Participation Encouraged: Embrace the Wild West vibe! Dress up your booth, wear western gear, and join the fun—we’ll be highlighting the most creative exhibitor displays.
- Pick Your Booth Location When You Register!
Why Exhibit?
- Direct Access to hundreds of HR leaders looking for tools, tech, and services
- Engaged Attendees who value networking and exploring business solutions
- Brand Exposure before, during, and after the event
- Meaningful Conversations in a welcoming and energetic environment
Whether you’re showcasing new tech, training programs, legal services, or workforce wellness tools—there’s no better place to connect with the HR community than ILSHRM 2026.
Ready to Ride?
We are limited to 40 booth spaces. Secure your space early and start planning your Western-themed booth experience—we can’t wait to partner with you!