“Building a Resilient Maryland Workforce” Topic of MEDA Summer Conference
Baltimore, Md. — The Maryland Economic Development Association (MEDA) announces its 2016 Summer Conference, slated for July 27 at the World Trade Center in Baltimore. The conference will explore the complexities and challenges of building a resilient workforce. Industry experts will speak about effectively assessing the talents and skills of workers and recognizing the requirements for jobs of the future.
“An effective workforce development strategy can transform lives, while a workforce with strong training opportunities will propel communities forward. Investing in our people is crucial, this is why MEDA is dedicating the summer conference to developing a resilient workforce,” said MEDA President Keasha Haythe, CEcD.
A diverse group of conference speakers from the public and private sector will deliver an overview of workforce development as well as discuss resources Maryland can put in place to respond to the rapidly changing world of work.
The conference will open with key words from Kelly Schulz, secretary of the Maryland Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation (DLLR). She will highlight workforce development as an integral part of the state’s ability to grow its economic base and share DLLR’s vision for fostering economic growth. As part of this vision, Schulz will share the department’s goal of providing the resources to prepare workers with the skills Maryland employers need to flourish.
Two provocative panels will spark conversation and fuel thought at the MEDA Summer Conference. The first panel discussion will be centered on rapidly-changing workforce dynamics such as shifting demographics, technology advancements, and how employers are preparing to navigate these changes. The following panel will discuss the resources, partnerships and programs that are preparing skilled workers for Maryland’s workforce.
Robert Caret, Chancellor of the University System of Maryland (USM) will present the luncheon keynote address. Caret will discuss the initiatives University System of Maryland has in place to tackle workforce challenges. The conversation will also shift toward how economic developers can work with USM to advance workforce and economic development in Maryland.
“The conversations stemming from this conference have the potential to revolutionize how Maryland thinks about the workplace. We will address how we can effectively assess bringing potential employees and existing employers together,” said MEDA Executive Director, Pam Ruff.
Registration for the 2016 MEDA Summer Conference is $65 for members and $100 for non-members. Conference sponsors include the Maryland Department of Commerce, Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development, University System of Maryland and the Maryland Port Administration.
The MEDA Summer Conference is held annually in conjunction with the Chesapeake Basic Economic Development Course. The Basic Course is a professional development opportunity allowing attendees to explore all areas and aspects of economic development in order to become a well-rounded professional. For more information about the Chesapeake Basic Economic Development Course and the 2016 MEDA Summer Conference, visit www.medamd.com www.Facebook.com/MEDAmd or follow MEDA on Twitter @MEDAmd.
ABOUT MEDA
MEDA is a nonprofit organization of economic development professionals. Established in 1961, MEDA members promote the economic well-being of Maryland by working to improve the state’s business climate and the professionalism of those in the field of economic development.
MEDA’s membership includes economic development practitioners employed by government, businesses and chamber of commerce and other professionals with an interest in the economy of Maryland. Through its regular meetings, special programs and projects, MEDA member address such diverse issues as local planning, workforce, transportation, international trade, tourism and finance.
MEDA members work diligently transforming lives by creating opportunities, inspiring innovation and enriching communities in Maryland. To learn more about MEDA, visit www.medamd.com
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Media Contact:
Sandy Sponaugle
sandy@medaMD.com
(301) 358-9255
