The annual Central Coast Writers’ Conference at Cuesta College returns Friday and Saturday September 26-27 with its largest program ever, featuring 45 presenters, more than 50 workshops, two keynoters, and—this year—eight optional, additional-fee, three-hour master classes.
“Our master classes give writers the chance to work closely with industry-leading authors and professionals,” according to conference director Meagan Friberg. “They’re designed to sharpen skills, provide insider insights, and inspire participants to take their work to the next level.”
Master classes will be held Friday, September 26 from 9 a.m. to noon, before the conference’s regular programming begins. Topics covered include AI tools, self-publishing, launching a novel, character development, screenwriting, editing, author website design, and nonprofit storytelling.
The $150 registration fee is separate from the main conference, and each class is limited to 20 participants.
Hollywood director, screenwriter and producer Rob Edwards will lead a master class in “Everything They Never Taught Me About Screenwriting in Film School.” Brenna Humphreys will lead “Storytelling for Impact: Transforming Nonprofit Narratives” with former conference director Teri Bayus, who says “Great stories can make or break whether a nonprofit gets a grant, donation or sponsorship.”
The conference officially opens Friday afternoon with motivational and interactive group sessions, writing workshops, a bookstore, vendors, networking opportunities and a teen program. The theme, “It’s Time!,” marks the return to a full two-day format for the first time since 2019, when The Writer magazine named the conference the “Best Conference in the West.”
Following a Friday evening social hour, the opening keynote features Brooke Warner, author, publisher and memoir coach, who will present “Now or Never: Why the World Needs Your Words.”
Saturday sessions run from 9 a.m. to 4:15 p.m., followed by Edwards’ closing keynote, “A Tankful of Inspiration for Your Drive Home.” The day offers sessions in genres ranging from fiction, nonfiction and memoir to poetry, screenwriting, publishing, business writing and more.
“This year’s schedule is packed with diverse breakout sessions and dynamic panel discussions,” Friberg said. “Writers will leave CCWC with new tools, inspiration and connections to fuel their creative life.”
Conference registration is $300 in advance and $325 at the door. Regular conference registration includes Saturday lunch.