The Order of the Arrow Experience (OAX) is Scouting America’s National Honor Society’s Section E8’s annual hands-on learning and discovery program at Cardinal Conclave. Bringing together Arrowmen and exhibitors from across North Carolina, OAX connects participants with new skills, career opportunities, hobbies, and leadership experiences.
Unlike a traditional exhibit hall, OAX encourages you to get involved. Explore equipment, participate in demonstrations, meet skilled professionals, and discover something you might never have tried before.
Whether you’re interested in technology, outdoor adventure, public service, or improving your lodge, there’s something to explore at OAX.
What's New for 2027??
This year’s focus, Forging the Future, emphasizes three areas:
Tools — Discover New Skills: Explore science, technology, skilled trades, and career opportunities through practical demonstrations and interactive activities.
Trades — Learn from Experience: Connect with professionals, organizations, and community groups that can introduce you to careers, services, and valuable life skills.
Traditions — Strengthen Our Brotherhood: Discover Scouting history, explore opportunities within the Order of the Arrow, and learn skills that strengthen our chapters, lodges, and communities.
Our goal is to bring together 75 engaging exhibits for our largest and most interactive OAX experience yet.
Interactive Training & Leadership
OAX is more than an exhibit hall. We’re developing short, engaging training experiences focused on practical skills and the challenges facing today’s Arrowmen.
Planned opportunities include skills-based instruction, OA leadership development, and collaborative discussions where members can share ideas and solutions to common lodge challenges
Specific sessions, topics, and schedules will be announced as plans are finalized.
Become an OAX Exhibitor
Are you passionate about your career, hobby, trade, or organization? Help inspire the next generation of leaders by sharing your expertise at OAX!
We welcome businesses, educational institutions, public agencies, Scouting organizations, and individuals who can provide engaging, educational experiences.
What you should know:
- Exhibiting is free.
- Interactive demonstrations and hands-on activities are strongly encouraged.
- Selling merchandise or services during OAX is not permitted. Free educational materials and giveaways are welcome.
- Lunch and water are planned for registered exhibitor staff.
- Exhibit space, equipment requests, and special arrangements will be coordinated with our team.
Interested in participating?
Email training@e8.oa-scouting.org with your organization, proposed exhibit, and primary contact information. Our team will discuss the next steps and logistical needs with you.
2027 Event Information
OAX Program: Saturday, April 17, 9:00 AM–12:00 PM
Cardinal Conclave: April 16–18, 2027
Location: Camp Bowers, Camp Bowers Trail, White Oak, NC
Planned Exhibitor Schedule:
- Arrival and unloading: 7:30–8:30 AM
- Vehicles parked by: 8:45 AM
- Program: 9:00 AM–12:00 PM
- Teardown and departure: 12:00–1:30 PM
Final arrival instructions, parking maps, and exhibit assignments will be distributed to participating exhibitors before Conclave.
Attend OAX
OAX is part of the annual Section E8 Cardinal Conclave. Explore exhibits, meet people from across North Carolina, and bring new knowledge and experiences back to your home lodge.
Learn more about the event on our Cardinal Conclave page.
Questions or Suggestions?
Have an idea for an exhibit, training session, or organization we should invite?
Contact the Section E8 Vice Chief of Training at training@e8.oa-scouting.org.