Overview
Each year, the Emerging Techniques Forum (ETF) advances the future of operations research by bringing together the newest ideas, technologies, and analytical approaches shaping national security decision-making. This event is the premier venue for exploring innovative methods before they become mainstream practice, connecting analysts, researchers, operators, and decision-makers across government, industry, academia, and the military.
This year's Forum places a special emphasis on artificial intelligence for the operations research community, exploring how AI is transforming the way analysts develop insights, evaluate alternatives, and support mission-critical decisions. Rather than viewing AI as a separate discipline, ETF 2026 examines how AI and operations research complement one another to create more capable, transparent, and effective analytical solutions for today's most complex defense and national security challenges.
The technical program is organized around three complementary tracks:
- Emerging Techniques explores innovative operations research methods, advanced analytics, and novel approaches that push beyond conventional analysis and expand the future toolkit for national security analysts.
- AI in Practice focuses on the development, validation, integration, and responsible use of artificial intelligence and machine learning within the analytic workflow, highlighting practical lessons learned and best practices for deploying AI-enabled capabilities.
- AI in Operations showcases real-world applications of AI to operational and mission problems, demonstrating how emerging technologies are improving decision advantage across defense and national security organizations.
New for 2026: ETF introduces a dedicated hands-on AI learning series woven throughout all three days of the Forum. Participants can build practical skills through short, interactive AI skill sessions scheduled each morning and after lunch, followed by a one-hour hands-on workshop at the end of each day. These learning experiences complement the AI in Practice and AI in Operations tracks, providing attendees with immediately applicable tools, techniques, and workflows they can bring back to their organizations.
Beyond the technical program, ETF offers keynote presentations from leaders shaping the future of analytics, engaging discussions on emerging challenges and opportunities, and numerous networking opportunities designed to foster collaboration across the defense analytical community. The Forum also continues its tradition of recognizing outstanding early-career talent through the Eugene P. Visco Prize, which honors exceptional research quality, technical innovation, and presentation excellence among emerging operations research professionals.
For those exploring the future of operations research, the 2026 Emerging Techniques Forum provides a unique opportunity to learn from leading practitioners, exchange ideas with peers, and help shape the next generation of national security analytics.
Abstracts
The planning team is now seeking abstracts for presentations.
The deadline to submit abstracts is 9 October 2026.
Tracks
- Emerging Techniques — Novel OR methods that push beyond conventional analysis
- AI in Practice — Building, validating, and integrating AI/ML into the analytic workflow
- AI in Operations — Applying AI to operational and mission problems
Visco Prize
Eugene P. Visco 1927-2019
MORS Eugene P. Visco Prize for International Collaboration in Operations Research
Established in 2019, this prize recognizes excellence in research quality, contributions, and presentation. Early career and Junior Analysts conducting impactful, technically rigorous, and multi-disciplinary research are highly encouraged to apply! Visit the Visco Prize webpage for more information.
Interested in sponsoring the Visco prize winner? Contact kmiller@mors.org
Register Now, Pay Later:
Register Payment Options Refund Policy
Take advantage of the option to register now and pay later with the “invoice me” option at checkout. This option will display in the credit card dropdown menu on the checkout page. If you need assistance registering, please contact Ms. Karla Lee-Riviere, karla.lee-riviere@mors.org.
*Note: This can only be used to purchase registration fees. This can not be used for social events, lunches or membership.
*Note: Students are able to take advantage of a discount, but must show proof of student status.
Please contact morsoffice@mors.org to register as a student.
| Employer |
Early (7/17 - 9/1) |
Regular (9/2 - 10/19) |
Late (10/20 - Onsite) |
| MORS Government Sponsor* |
Member |
$450 |
$500 |
$550 |
| MORS Government Sponsor* |
Non-Member |
$550 |
$600 |
$650 |
| U.S Federal Government |
Member |
$500 |
$550 |
$600 |
| U.S Federal Government |
Non-Member |
$600 |
$650 |
$700 |
| All Others |
Member |
$550 |
$600 |
$650 |
| All Others |
Non-Member |
$650 |
$700 |
$750 |
| Students |
Member |
$75 |
$100 |
$125 |
| Students |
Non-Member |
$100 |
$125 |
$150 |
*Government Sponsor organizations include: Center for Army Analysis, HQDA/DCS Program G-8; Marine Corps Combat Development and Integration; Naval Operations, N81; Secretariat of the Air Force, Studies and Analysis SAF/SA; and OSD, A&S.
Exhibitors
Overview
Come demonstrate your company’s capabilities, share innovations, and build lasting relationships as you connect directly with our diverse community of national security professionals, government analysts, academic leaders, and industry experts within the Emerging Techniques space.
Exhibitor Benefits:
- Build your brand awareness to 100+ professionals, students, and academics in the industry
- Increase exposure and return on your investment with listing on the website
- Two (2) complimentary general registrations are included in the industry exhibitor fee
Interested companies are first asked to contact Katherine Miller at kmiller@mors.org or complete the online exhibit request form.
Space is limited — we encourage early interest and registration.
The deadline to register as an exhibitor is 16 November, 2026.
Looking for more ways to engage with attendees?
Position your brand at the forefront of innovation with one of our exclusive branding opportunities! Please contact kmiller@mors.org if interested in branding opportunities for this meeting.
Exhibiting Price
- Industry: $3,500
- Military/Government* Exhibitor Only: $1,500
- MORS Partner: Complimentary, no fee
*All military/government space must be approved by Katherine Miller, Director of Partner Relations, kmiller@mors.org to qualify for the military/government rate. The contracting group must have a .mil or .gov in their email address to qualify.
General Setup
- One 6ft Table
- Two Chairs
- Power and Wifi
Participating Exhibitors
TBD