As the skilled labor force faces an unprecedented wave of retirements, the utilities, construction, and manufacturing industries are at a crossroads. How do we address immediate workforce needs while preparing for long-term sustainability?

Join us for the Business Forum: “Bridging the Gap: Building Tomorrow’s Skilled Workforce Today”, where industry leaders, educators, and workforce experts will explore strategies to attract, train, and retain skilled workers.

This interactive forum will focus on:

• Immediate Challenges: Tackling labor shortages and recruitment strategies.
• Long-Term Planning: Preserving institutional knowledge and building a sustainable talent pipeline.
• Collaborative Solutions: The role of education and partnerships in addressing workforce needs.

Whether you’re a business leader, HR professional, educator, or workforce organization, this event will provide actionable insights and resources to help you navigate today’s workforce challenges and prepare for tomorrow’s opportunities.

Don’t miss this chance to shape the future of skilled labor in your industry!

Tentative Agenda:

• 8:00 am – 8:30 am   Networking, Resources and Refreshments
• 8:30 am – 9:00 am   Welcome and Introductions
• 9:00 am – 9:40 am   Education Panel Discussion and Q&A
  • Bo Bundrick, CTE Director, Louisa County Public Schools
  • Elizabeth Creamer, Vice President Workforce Development, Community College Workforce Alliance
  • Dr. Leonda Keniston, VP for Academic Affairs & Workforce Development, Piedmont Virginia Community College
• 9:45 am – 10:30 am  Resources Panel Discussion and Q&A
  • Alisha Bazemore, Ed.D., Assistant Director of Innovative Work Based Learning Initiatives, State Council of Higher Education for Virginia
  • Casey Hollins, Managing Director Public Relations and Communications, Rappahannock Electric Coop
  • Jennifer Hynson, Registered Apprenticeship Consultant, Virginia Works
  • Jim Robertson, Manager of Member Services and Communications, Virginia, Maryland and Delaware Association of Electric Cooperatives
• 10:30 am – 11:00 am   Resource Fair & Networking

Resource Fair:  8 am – 11 am Exhibit Time

The Resource Fair is a dedicated opportunity for businesses, educators, and workforce organizations to showcase programs, tools, and partnerships that can help solve immediate and long-term workforce challenges. Exhibitors will connect directly with business leaders in the utilities, construction, and manufacturing industries, offering valuable resources to address labor shortages, training needs, and employee retention strategies.

REGISTER