This summit is part of Community Development Week 2026:
Shaping Tomorrow’s Community Development Ecosystem
Capacity Building Institute , Community Development Week , Workforce Development ,
This summit is part of Community Development Week 2026:
Shaping Tomorrow’s Community Development Ecosystem
As part of Community Development Week 2026, The Coalition will convene employers, workforce organizations, training providers, and ecosystem partners to explore how DC can strengthen the systems that connect residents to quality employment opportunities.
A strong workforce ecosystem requires alignment across many partners—from employers defining workforce needs, to training providers preparing residents for opportunities, to organizations supporting job readiness, placement, and career advancement. Yet challenges across recruitment, training alignment, retention, and coordination can create barriers for both employers and job seekers.
The Workforce Development Summit will bring together stakeholders from across the workforce ecosystem to examine how existing systems function today, identify opportunities for stronger coordination, and explore strategies to improve job access, training alignment, and employment outcomes across the District.
Through facilitated discussion and cross-sector engagement, participants will examine where greater alignment is needed and identify opportunities to strengthen pathways that connect residents to quality jobs while supporting employers’ workforce needs.
Preparing Residents for Today’s Workforce
Exploring evolving workforce expectations, including core competencies, digital proficiency, AI readiness, and other skills needed for successful employment and career advancement.
Strengthening Hiring, Retention, and Advancement Pathways
Examining challenges employers and workers face throughout the employment journey, including hiring barriers, retention challenges, second-chance employment opportunities, and strategies that support long-term career success.
Building Stronger Workforce Partnerships
Identifying opportunities to improve coordination among workforce providers, training organizations, adult education providers, apprenticeship programs, employers, and other partners to create more connected and effective workforce pathways.
Creating Shared Ownership Across the Workforce Ecosystem
Exploring how employers, service providers, training institutions, and other stakeholders can work together to strengthen workforce outcomes across the District.
Who Should Attend?
This summit is designed for:
Why Attend?
Participants will have the opportunity to:
Thank you to our Community Development Week Funders
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