Pre-conference Training

Level up with SAS Training Sessions

Develop in-demand skills with expert instructors, get hands-on experience with the latest tech and earn a globally recognized certification.

Very educational, a lot of practical takeaways that I can actually apply.” Austin Shifrin, FHLBank of Pittsburgh

When it comes to AI and analytics, building new skills and learning the latest technologies are the best ways to excel in your role. Our SAS training sessions make it easy to gain this knowledge as part of your conference experience.


PRE-CONFERENCE ADD-ONS

Grab a spot in one of our pre-conference add-on sessions early because these popular skill-building sessions always sell out. Enhance your résumé and earn certifications through a dedicated day of training sessions, in-depth tutorials and SAS certification exams.

Given the condensed schedule, attendees may purchase a boxed lunch during registration and collect it between sessions.

Sessions are subject to change. Check back for the latest details.

Courses
April 27, 12:30 – 5:30 PM

Give yourself dedicated time to focus on real-world examples, hands-on practice sessions and interactive Q&A opportunities with our expert instructors during our pre-conference courses. Each session costs $150.

SAS® Viya® Overview

Attend this course for a general overview of the SAS Viya platform, including the architecture, applications, and programming features. The core applications of SAS Viya take you through the AI and analytics life cycle. Learn about:

Learn about:

  • SAS® Information Catalog
  • SAS® Data Explorer
  • SAS® Visual Analytics
  • SAS® Model Studio
  • SAS® Model Manager
  • SAS® Studio

Explore Data and Build Reports With SAS® Visual Analytics

Attend this course for an introduction to data discovery and report creation in SAS Visual Analytics.

In this course, you will:

  • Learn how to work with data items.
  • Create data items.
  • Explore and analyze data with charts and graphs.
  • Create reports in SAS Visual Analytics.

Migrating SAS®9.4 Content to the SAS Viya Platform

In this course, learn to support the migration from SAS®9.4 to SAS Viya. Participants will have the opportunity to plan, prepare, execute and validate a migration of content from SAS®9.4 to SAS Viya.

This course begins with an overview of the options for migrating to the SAS Viya platform. It reviews migration support for SAS®9 content and how that content migrates to the platform.

  • The SAS content assessment tool is used to understand the SAS®9 source environment and assess its readiness to migrate.
  • The SAS Viya target environment is reviewed, and any configuration changes that are required to support the migration are performed.
  • SAS Environment Manager and the SAS Viya command-line interface are used to import SAS®9 content to the SAS Viya platform.

The course ends with a review and validation of the migration results. The content that has been migrated is tested, and any additional steps needed to complete the migration are performed.

Note: This course requires you to bring your own personal laptop to access course materials and participate in activities that require digital interaction.

Tutorials
April 27, 10:00 – 12:30 PM

Tackle complex statistical concepts with our two+ hour pre-conference tutorials led by seasoned SAS experts. We keep the format focused and effective so you can quickly expand your knowledge and sharpen your skills. Each session costs $100.

Getting Started With Generative AI

In this tutorial, you will learn the essentials of generative AI, how it differs from AI and how SAS can work with the latest innovations in Generative AI. (Abstract subject to change)

Introduction to Quantum Computing: An Applied Perspective

Learn the fundamentals of quantum computing and its role in AI. Explore how quantum differs from classical computing, why it can outperform in some cases, and its limitations. Understand current hardware types, trends, and future directions. Discover real-world business applications and how they compare to classical solutions. The tutorial concludes with an intro to qubits, quantum circuits, and key quantum AI algorithms, focusing on practical uses for businesses.

SAS Studio for the Data Engineer

This tutorial demonstrates how to take your point-and-click SAS Studio Flow skills to the next level with SAS Studio Engineer. This advanced SAS® Studio license includes steps that enable you to integrate data, improve data quality and perform specialized data transformation tasks while working with a variety of data types.

SAS Certification Exams
April 27, 9 AM – 12 PM and 1 – 4 PM

Start the conference with a brand new SAS certification! Add one of these sought-after certifications to your resumé before the conference kicks off. Take any exam for $50 (more than $100 off the average exam price)!

There will be two times offered for certification exams on Monday:

  • 9 AM – 12 PM
  • 1 – 4 PM

Click here for a comprehensive list of SAS certifications and the required exams.


MORE EDUCATION OPPORTUNITIES

SAS Learning
April 28-30

During SAS Innovate, you can also join your choice of 20+ Hands-on Workshops, 10+ Learning Labs and SAS Learning sessions (introductory content) included with your registration fee. These workshops and labs let you try out cutting-edge technology for yourself in sessions led by expert instructors.

Sessions will be added to the Agenda page when content is finalized.


Join us at the Gaylord Texan for SAS Innovate 2026!