The Virginia Chamber of Commerce Foundation is pleased to present the 2026 Virginia Education and Workforce Conference on Thursday, October 1st in partnership with The Virginia Business Higher Education Council and the Virginia Economic Development Partnership.
Virginia’s greatest competitive advantage is its people.
Join us on Thursday, October 1, as we convene leaders from business, education, workforce development, and government for a timely conversation about how Virginia can strengthen its talent pipeline, from the classroom to the workplace.
Through dynamic panel discussions and practical insights, this summit will explore how collaboration, innovation, and shared leadership can prepare the next generation of talent while fueling long-term economic growth across the Commonwealth.
Sponsor opportunities
| MW | For sponsorship opportunities, contact Mary-Michael Wachur at m.wachur@vachamber.com |
Panel discussion topics
| 01 Building Virginia’s Talent Advantage: Connecting Classrooms, Careers, and Opportunity |
| Virginia’s future competitiveness depends on a strong, connected talent pipeline. This opening panel brings together leaders from K–12 education, higher education, workforce development, and economic development to discuss strategies for strengthening talent development, expanding opportunity, and ensuring Virginia has the skilled workforce needed to support thriving businesses, communities, and a resilient economy. |
| 02 Before College, Before Careers: Why K-12 Engagement Is a Talent Strategy |
| Building tomorrow’s workforce begins long before students enter college or the job market. This panel explores how employers are partnering with K–12 schools to spark career awareness, strengthen foundational skills, and create meaningful pathways into high-demand industries. Panelists will share practical examples of successful school-business partnerships and discuss how early engagement can expand opportunity, strengthen local talent pipelines, and help ensure Virginia’s future workforce is prepared for the careers of tomorrow. |
| 03 Talent by Design: Aligning Curriculum, Credentials, and Careers |
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Building a strong workforce requires more than recruiting talent. As industries evolve and workforce needs change, employers and higher education institutions are working together to develop students for successful careers. This panel will examine what employer-education collaboration looks like today, including the growing role of internships, skills-based hiring, industry advisory boards, and community college partnerships in creating stronger talent pipelines. Panelists will discuss what effective employer-education collaboration looks like today, how it benefits students and businesses alike, and what it will take to prepare Virginia’s workforce for the jobs of tomorrow. |
Blueprint Virginia 2035
In December 2025, the Virginia Chamber of Commerce presented Governor-elect Spanberger with Blueprint Virginia 2035.
The recommendations outlined in Blueprint Virginia 2035 serve as an action plan to foster long-term economic growth and resiliency. They will ensure Virginia remains a leader in the global economy, continues to develop a strong and diverse workforce that businesses need, and maintains its position as a top state for business.
Statewide education and workforce development is one of the critical focus areas of the Blueprint. The ability to attract and retain talent is essential for business stability and expansion. A skilled and educated workforce remains a critical priority for the business community in every region of the Commonwealth and in every industry.
Learn more about the Blueprint recommendations here:
Accommodations
Time: 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Location: Greater Richmond Convention Center, Grand Ballrooms, Level 2 (Directly across from the Richmond Marriott Hotel) 403 North 3rd Street, Richmond, VA 23219
GPS/Directions to Parking Deck: 351 North 3rd Street, Richmond, VA 23219
Dress: Business Attire
Registration and Check-In: The registration desk is located on Level 2 in the foyer outside the Grand Ballrooms. Your name badge serves as your ticket for the day and includes your assigned luncheon seating.
Seating: The morning program is open seating unless you are a speaker or panelist. Check your name badge at check-in for your luncheon table assignment.
Parking: Parking in the GRCC Parking Deck is $8.00 per vehicle. The deck connects directly to the Convention Center via the 3rd level. Additional parking is available near the intersection of 5th Street and Marshall Street. Please note there is one entrance to the parking deck, which can become congested as guests arrive. Allow extra time to park and reach registration.
