The countdown is over: STE 2026 – the International Conference on Smart Technologies & Education – begins this week in Brașov, Romania. From March 11–13, 2026, the global engineering education community will come together to exchange ideas, present research, and explore the future of smart technologies in education and industry.
With over 160 participants from over 30 countries and more than 100 paper presentations, workshops, and other events, STE 2026 promises a vibrant and diverse academic program. The conference will feature keynote lectures, workshops, round table discussions, special sessions, and numerous opportunities for collaboration and networking. Major recognitions such as the IAOE Cornel Samoila Meritorious Service Award, the new IAOE Distinguished Fellow, the GOLC Online Laboratory Award, the EWA Young Talent Award, and the Best Paper Awards will be presented during two award sessions. In addition to the academic program, participants can look forward to several community-building events, including the Welcome Reception ahead of the official opening and a Festive Conference Dinner.
This year’s conference holds particular significance as it coincides with the 20th anniversary of the International Association of Online Engineering (IAOE). Over the past two decades, IAOE has built a strong global community dedicated to advancing online laboratories, smart learning environments, and innovative approaches to engineering education.
As participants begin arriving in Brașov this week, STE 2026 marks not only an opportunity to share cutting-edge research but also a moment to celebrate the community and partnerships that have shaped IAOE over the past two decades.
We look forward to welcoming colleagues from around the world to Brașov and to an inspiring conference experience.
You will find conference details and the program here: https://ste-conference.org/current/index.php