2026 Educator Workshop for Endodontic Program Directors: Recap
The 2026 Educator Workshop, held August 14–15 in St. Louis, brought together endodontic program directors from across the country for two days of education, candid discussion and collaboration focused on the challenges and opportunities facing advanced endodontic education. The program covered a wide range of timely topics. The American Board of Endodontics shared updates on a record 166 new Diplomates, its completed Job Task Analysis, updated examination domains and changes to the examination process. Sessions also explored AI in education, CODA updates, ADEA PASS and the Dental Match, giving attendees an opportunity to better understand changes affecting both educators and residents.
A major focus of the workshop was the future of the educator workforce. Program directors discussed the challenges of recruiting and retaining faculty, noting that barriers to academic careers extend beyond compensation. Early identification of future educators, mentorship, part-time teaching opportunities and stronger pathways into academics were among the strategies discussed. Attendees also spent significant time examining the residency application, interview and offer process, including opportunities for greater consistency and clearer expectations across programs.
Just as valuable as the formal presentations were the conversations among program directors themselves. The workshop provided dedicated time to compare experiences, discuss common challenges and identify areas where continued collaboration could support both educators and residents. As a next step, the AAE Educational Affairs Committee will develop a resident survey focused on interview timing and the residency application experience, providing additional insight to inform future discussions. More information on the survey will be shared as that work progresses. These conversations and next steps will continue to inform the work of the Educational Affairs Committee in the year ahead.
Check out our Flickr album of photos from Educator Workshop and APICES!
Save the Date: Educator Workshop 2027
The next Educator Workshop will take place August 20–21, 2027, at the Marriott New Orleans in New Orleans, Louisiana, and will focus on predoctoral directors. The 2027 program will include two joint presentations with Corporate Community Conference attendees, along with dedicated programming developed around the priorities and challenges identified by predoctoral educators. Attendees from both groups will also have an opportunity to connect at a joint Educator and Corporate Community Welcome Reception on Thursday, August 19, before the program begins. Registration is expected to open in June 2027. Additional program and registration information will be shared with predoctoral directors as planning continues.