Preparations are well underway for the 2026 UC Tech Annual Conference at UC Merced from July 8-10. With just over a month to go, excitement is building as the conference Planning Committee finalizes activities and experiences for attendees to connect, learn, and explore.
What’s Happening at UC Tech 2026
Here’s a preview of some activities planned for attendees:
Metal on Main Stamp and Raffle Event: Explore the streets of Downtown Merced during the Metal on Main event and collect stamps from participating local businesses. Each stamp earns an additional entry into the Metal on Main raffle for prizes such as Bluetooth speakers and gift cards. Enjoy an evening filled with live music, local food, and vibrant community experiences!
Sponsor Fair and Raffle Event: Visit the sponsor fair, chat with industry partners, and collect sponsor raffle tickets for prizes valued at $300. View our lineup of UC Tech 2026 sponsors.
Optional Post-Conference Gathering—Lake Yosemite: Keep the good vibes going on Friday, July 10, with a relaxed afternoon by the lake near UC Merced campus. Unwind and decompress with music, lawn games, and casual conversations with colleagues in a scenic outdoor setting.
Optional Post-Conference Day Trip—Yosemite National Park: Extend your stay in Merced with an all-day outing to one of California’s most iconic parks on Saturday, July 11. Famous for its giant sequoia trees, rushing waterfalls, and dramatic granite cliffs, Yosemite offers breathtaking scenery and adventures for every pace, from challenging hikes to leisurely walks.
- Tickets are $50 per person and include park entrance fee and round-trip transportation from UC Merced campus. Be sure to plan your own sightseeing for the day.
- Tickets will be available for purchase until July 10th or when tickets are sold out.
- To purchase a Yosemite National Park ticket, select “UC Tech Conference Registration” on the UCOP Events landing page. You’ll be redirected to our “Yosemite National Park Registration” page to complete your purchase.
Behind the Scenes
The UC Tech 2026 Planning Committee is turning up the volume to create an enriching, memorable, and well-orchestrated conference experience. Here’s a look at what’s currently in the works:
Communications and Website Committee: Speakers can now review the Speaker FAQs for information on what to expect for their session and use conference-themed slide decks. Attendee communications are also in development to ensure everyone arrives prepared and ready to rock.
Programming Committee: Schedule planning is now in full swing within Guidebook, the conference event platform. A tentative program is expected to be released next week, with the finalized version planned for late June.
Design Committee: This year’s swag designs are almost ready to debut, bringing the conference theme, To the Metal: Reflect. Reforge. Reimagine, to life. Expect a blend of playful artwork and rock-and-roll flair that captures the energy of UC Tech.
Atmosphere, Meals, and Flow Committee: Registration numbers are being finalized to coordinate meals, activities, and swag merchandise.
We’re excited to welcome attendees to UC Merced this July to experience the best of the Merced region!
Questions? Email uctech@ucmerced.edu.
