Thursday, July 31st 9:30am-4:15pm PDT

Sheraton Grande Central Seattle

Step inside the newsroom with NBCU Academy. We’re offering a one-day, invite-only experience packed with practical skills and powerful conversations with award-winning journalists at NBC News, NBCU Local, Telemundo, CNBC and MSNBC. Learn through immersive workshops on writing, interviewing and storytelling for TV, streaming and digital — all with real-time feedback. Participants will also have exclusive access to the HelloHive team, who will offer advice on your resume. If you’re curious, driven and ready to grow — this is where your next level begins.

Who should apply? 

Our workshops are designed for attendees who are: 

• Registered with AAJA to attend their 2025 conference in Seattle
• Strongly interested in writing, editing and producing
• On-air talent looking to move into a new market 
• Skilled journalists interested in new media 

What should I expect? 

Conversations with NBC News, NBC News NOW, Noticias Telemundo, NBCUniversal Local, MSNBC & CNBC professionals to identify the most effective tools to improve your journalism skills.

NBCU Academy in Conversation with Vicky Nguyen: Identity, Resilience and Breaking Through  

Thursday, July 31st 9:30-10:15am PDT
Sheraton Grande Central Seattle

In her deeply personal new memoir “Boat Baby: A Memoir”, NBC News anchor and correspondent Vicky Nguyen pays tribute to her parents’ sacrifice and the journey that brought her from refugee to national news anchor. In this inspiring conversation, Vicky shares how her Vietnamese American identity shaped her path in journalism, the lessons learned from local newsrooms coast to coast, and how she brings her full self to the anchor desk. Don’t miss this powerful session on belonging, perseverance, and what it means to tell stories that matter—from the inside out.

Speakers:

• Ali Velshi, Host, MSNBC’s “Velshi”  
• Vicky Nguyen, “NBC News Daily” Co-Anchor & NBC News Chief Consumer Investigative Correspondent 

The Art of the Interview: Asking Questions That Matter

Thursday, July 31st 10:30am-12:00pm PDT
Sheraton Grande Central Seattle

Great interviews are built on thoughtful questions, sharp instincts, and genuine curiosity. In this interactive session, you’ll learn the art of asking better questions—from setting the tone to knowing when to stay silent. Through real-world examples and guided discussions, you’ll gain practical tools to build trust, spark emotion or unlock a headline. We’ll cover techniques for approaching interviews with public officials, experts, and people impacted by breaking or tragic events.  Whether reporting for on-air, print or digital platforms, this session will help you grow not just as a journalist—but as a better communicator, listener, and storyteller.  

Speakers:

• Brian Cheung, NBC News Business and Data Correspondent
• Additional speakers to come

CNBC Presents: What Every Journalist Needs to Know About Personal Finance

Thursday, July 31st 12:45-1:45pm PDT
Sheraton Grande Central Seattle

When you’re chasing deadlines or covering the latest market moves, your own finances can end up on the back burner. Knowing how to manage your money is just as important as knowing how to cover the story. Join Sharon Epperson, CNBC’s Senior Personal Finance Correspondent, for a candid and practical conversation about what every journalist—no matter your beat or career stage—should know about personal finance. Whether you’re just starting out or leveling up in your career, this is your opportunity to gain the tools and confidence to take charge of your financial future. 

Speakers:

• Sharon Epperson, CNBC Senior Personal Finance Correspondent 
• Additional speakers to come 

NBCU Academy Script Doctor

Thursday, July 31st 2:00-4:15pm PDT
Sheraton Grande Central Seattle

Great journalism doesn’t live in just one format. Whether you’re turning a digital article into a broadcast script—or adapting an on-air story for digital — the power is in how you write and adapt. Hear from NBCU News Group journalists who’ve mastered storytelling across platforms, then get personalized feedback from our local news directors and NBC News Digital editors. Bring a printed or digital copy of either a script or article. Sign up in advance to reserve your one-on-one critique.  

Speakers:

• Emilie Ikeda, NBC News Correspondent
• Additional speakers to come