Summit Outcomes:
The Work Summit 2026: Building a Talent-Ready Workforce for the Future is designed to strengthen collaboration, innovation, and alignment among education, workforce, and industry partners across the Southern Crescent Region.
The outcomes of this regional conference aim to drive long-term strategies that build a sustainable, inclusive, and talent-ready workforce. No matter the industry, Georgia depends on a skilled, educated workforce to grow and succeed.
Regional Impact:
By engaging leaders and stakeholders from Butts, Fayette, Jasper, Henry, Lamar, Pike, Spalding, and Upson Counties, the Workforce Summit 2026 will serve as a catalyst for coordinated regional action.
Through the sharing of data, best practices, and innovative strategies, the summit will empower communities to cultivate a workforce that supports economic growth, strengthens local industries, and ensures long-term prosperity for the Southern Crescent Region.
Join us for the Southern Crescent Region Workforce Development Summit, a premier annual convening for employers, educators, workforce partners, and community leaders committed to building a talent-ready workforce across the Southern Crescent region. This showcase event brings together industry leaders alongside education and community partners to highlight effective workforce solutions and set priorities for the year ahead.
As employers across the region continue to face persistent talent shortages, this summit will elevate local and regional workforce strategies, spotlight innovative training and upskilling models, and provide attendees with hands-on opportunities to explore successful partnerships in action. Participants will engage in meaningful discussions focused on strengthening pipelines, aligning education with industry needs, and addressing the workforce challenges impacting our communities today and into the future.
Registration is now open for the summit! Registration is free and includes breakfast and lunch. Advance registration is required, and space may be limited.
Agenda - Building a Talent-Ready Workforce for the Future
8:00 – 8:30 AM – Registration and Networking Breakfast
Participants arrive, enjoy light refreshments, and connect with fellow attendees.
8:30 – 8:45 AM – Welcome and Opening Remarks
An overview of the summit’s goals, themes, and the importance of building a talent-ready workforce in the Southern Crescent Region. We will also acknowledge our sponsors.
8:45 – 9:45 AM – Session 1: Economic & Demographic
Trends Shaping the Future. Discover how shifting demographics, industry demands, and regional economic forecasts will shape the labor market over the next decade. This session highlights key data trends to guide workforce planning and resource allocation.
9:45 – 10:30 AM – Session 2: Coffee & Conversation with Local Elected Officials
Join an informal dialogue with city, county, and state leaders as they share perspectives on economic development priorities and workforce challenges. Participants will have the opportunity to ask questions and share ideas for collaborative solutions.
10:30 – 10:45 AM – Break
10:45 – 11:45 AM – Session 3: WIOA Engagement and Local Workforce Board Perspectives
Hear from Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) partners and local workforce board leaders about how federal and regional programs are meeting the needs of job seekers and employers. Learn how these programs can be leveraged to address critical workforce gaps.
11:45 AM – 12:30 PM – Session 4: Lunch / Voices of the Future – What Students and Families Need to Know About High-Demand Careers
This interactive panel-style session brings together current students, parents, and workforce experts for an open, honest dialogue about navigating career decisions in today’s rapidly evolving job market. With a special focus on high-demand fields such as manufacturing and allied health, participants will explore the information, resources, and support families need to feel confident in choosing a career pathway.
Students will share their firsthand experiences, questions, and aspirations, while parents discuss what they wish they understood better about technical careers, training requirements, earning potential, and long-term opportunities. Industry leaders and educators will listen, respond, and help bridge knowledge and perception gaps.
12:30 – 1:30 PM – Session 5: Sector Strategies in Action – Higher Education Partnerships for In-Demand Jobs
Explore how industry-specific sector strategies and higher education partnerships are aligning talent development with the needs of high-growth sectors. This session showcases innovative programs that prepare students and workers for the jobs of tomorrow.
1:30 – 1:45 PM – Closing Remarks and Call to Action
A summary of the day’s discussions, key takeaways, and next steps for continued regional collaboration.
For more information:
Contact Candice Buckley
candice.buckley@sctech.edu
(770) 914-4427
Thank You to our 2026 Sponsers
We sincerely thank our sponsors for their continued support and commitment to our mission. Their investment helps create meaningful opportunities for our community.
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