2026 International ACAC Conference Session Proposal Form

The rapid advancement of AI and automation is fundamentally reshaping the future of work, challenging traditional college counseling frameworks. This interactive session equips counselors with strategies to guide students toward resilient, meaningful career pathways in an era of unprecedented uncertainty. Part 1: The Changing Landscape We'll examine how AI, automation, and the gig economy are transforming job roles, then explore "future-proof" skills—complex problem-solving, critical thinking, adaptability, and emotional intelligence—using OECD skills analysis and the WEF Future of Jobs Report. We'll reframe university selection to emphasize return on learning and institutional agility over traditional rankings, drawing on insights from experts including Doug Lederman, Tom Brunskill, Michael T. Nietzel, and Jeff Selingo. Part 2: Table Talk. Participants will share and discuss practical counseling frameworks to help students embrace ambiguity, build growth mindsets, and transform career anxiety into productive exploration. We'll collaboratively develop approaches that prepare students for lifelong career transitions, not just their first job. Part 3: Key Takeaways We'll synthesize actionable strategies for helping students and families look beyond short-term outcomes, focusing on skills, experience, and meaningful ROI rather than solely on institutional prestige and rankings.