Reflections on the 2026 ERICSA Conference

By Jamie Eichenberg, Court Analyst, SCAO FOCB

The Eastern Regional Interstate Child Support Association (ERICSA) held its annual conference this year in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, bringing together child support professionals from across the world with attendees from states, tribes, and countries. Although the word interstate appears in the organization’s name, the conference offers far more than intergovernmental information. ERICSA has become one of the most rewarding learning opportunities in the child support field, offering a wide range of sessions designed for workers at every level of the child support program. 

This year’s agenda featured plenary presentations, 47 breakout sessions, and one of the most anticipated events of the week: the Interjurisdictional Fair (IJ Fair). During the IJ Fair, representatives from states, tribes, and countries set up informational tables highlighting the aspects of their child support programs. It is a lively networking space full of conversation, shared insights, and yes, even some fun state-themed swag. For many attendees, the fair is a chance to build relationships with colleagues who understand the importance of interstate collaboration. 

I had the opportunity to present two sessions during the conference. The first explored how federal legislation passed in H.R.1 impacts the child support program. We discussed not only the tax law changes in the legislation, but also the ripple effect that the law may have on public assistance programs and the families we serve. 

My second session focused on effective training design. We examined how to create memorable and meaningful training, using concepts from cognitive load theory to understand how people absorb new information. A well-designed training does not just deliver content, it ensures that learners can process, retain, and apply what they learn. 

A notable addition to this year’s conference was “ERICSA Next,” a new leadership development track aimed at preparing the next generation of leaders in the child support community. I attended several of these sessions, and they were among the highlights of my week. After nearly 24 years working in the child support program, I still find great value in learning from others’ experiences and perspectives. The leadership discussions emphasized mentoring, communication, and relationship-building. Even more importantly, the sessions created a way to connect with professionals from around the nation, giving me a new network of colleagues I can reach out to when questions arise. 

As always, ERICSA provided a space to learn, reflect, and grow. Whether through formal sessions, hallway conversations, or the energy of the IJ Fair, the conference reaffirmed the shared dedication of child support professionals. I left Milwaukee inspired, informed, and grateful for the opportunity to continue developing both my knowledge and connections within this meaningful program. Because we were in Wisconsin, I also left with a cooler full of delicious cheese!