The Virginia Chamber 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, the Virginia Economic Development Partnership and the Virginia Business-K12 Partnership.
**Registration is CLOSED. If you would like to inquire if space is still available, please contact EventsTeam@vachamber.com for assistance.**
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.
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| PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS: |
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Blueprint Virginia 2035 Updates Statewide education and workforce development was a critical focus of Blueprint Virginia 2035. We will be hearing opening keynote remarks from Edmond Hughes, Co-Chair of Blueprint Virginia 2035, member of the Virginia Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors Executive Committee, and Executive Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer, HII. Mr. Hughes will examine the recommendations presented in 2025 and where we are today, nearly a year later.
Work-Based Learning: Aligning Education and Industry Our Luncheon Keynote Speaker, Stephen Moret, will share his insights on how Virginia businesses can best align with educators at all levels. Talent by Design: Aligning Curriculum, Credentials, and Careers 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.
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. We will explore how employers are partnering with K–12 schools to spark career awareness, strengthen foundational skills, and create meaningful pathways into high-demand industries. Building Virginia’s Talent Advantage: Connecting Classrooms, Careers, and Opportunity Virginia’s future competitiveness depends on a strong, connected talent pipeline. Hear from leaders across the Commonwealth 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. The First Annual Internship Virginia Awards Our Education and Workforce Conference will feature the first-ever “Top Employers for Interns” Awards Presentation. The Internships VA “Top Employer for Interns Awards” recognize employers that create meaningful internship experiences and invest in Virginia’s future workforce. |
SPONSOR RESOURCES:
Atlantic Union Bank Internships:
https://www.atlanticunionbank.com/about/careers/internship
https://www.atlanticunionbank.com/bank-better/september-2025/internship-program
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:
