Lolo, MT — With just five weeks remaining, the 2026 IHEA-USA Annual Meeting & Training is set to bring together state agencies, instructors, volunteers, conservation partners, and industry leaders in Glendale, Arizona (June 1–4) for one of the most collaborative and forward-looking gatherings in hunter education.
This year's event features a strong lineup of hands-on experiences, peer-driven discussions, and emerging technology sessions, all designed to equip attendees with practical tools and insights to strengthen hunter education programs across the country.
Among the featured highlights:
New Admin Academy (Monday)
A dedicated session for hunter education administrators and coordinators—whether new to the role or attending their first IHEA event—focused on national resources, partner relationships, and peer connection.
Ranges & Shooting Sports Community Meeting (Monday)
The second gathering of its kind in North America, bringing together range coordinators, NGOs, and partners to address challenges and opportunities in expanding access to shooting sports.
Range Day at Ben Avery (Wednesday)
A hands-on, half-day experience at one of the country's most recognized public ranges, featuring collaboration with the Ben Avery team, the USFWS Partner with a Payer program, and industry partners.
AI in Hunter Education Workshop (Thursday)
A forward-looking session exploring real-world AI applications for hunter education programs, including a new product announcement.
Participants can attend in person for the full conference experience or virtually, with free online access available to IHEA-USA volunteer members, making it easier for instructors and educators to stay connected regardless of travel.
The 2026 Annual Meeting & Training is supported by partners including: Kalkomey, Recademics, National Bowhunter Education Foundation, Determinator Targets, PayIt, Monologix, North American Lead-free Partnership, Guidefitter, Southwick Associates, National Wild Turkey Federation, Morrell Targets, Manners Stocks, Magpul, Rinehart Targets, Outdoor Edge, Federal Ammunition, Outdoor Edge, CVA Muzzleloaders, Savage Arms, TriggerSafe, and Umarex USA Airguns.
In-person registration:https://whova.com/portal/registration/XnsSjNVU4eYnrERmMy1b/
Volunteer virtual registration (free):https://whova.com/portal/registration/XnsSjNVU4eYnrERmMy1b/pv86jbix
For full agenda details, event information, and hotel accommodations, visit: https://www.ihea-usa.org/2026-ihea-usa-annual-conference/
With a focus on practical application, collaboration, and innovation, the IHEA-USA Annual Meeting & Training continues to serve as a central gathering point for those working to advance safe, ethical, and modern hunter education. Whether attending in person or online, participants will be part of the conversations, tools, and ideas shaping the future of hunter education nationwide.
About IHEA-USA: The International Hunter Education Association-USA is the professional association for state, provincial, and territorial fish and wildlife agencies responsible for hunter education programs. IHEA-USA supports hunter education through training, resources, technology, partnerships, and professional development—helping ensure safe, responsible, and ethical hunting practices across North America.