May 20, 2026

Water Wednesdays: Investing in Our Water Workforce

In this Water Wednesdays episode, IEI Policy and Program Manager Jessica Solis Aguilar welcomes three guests to discuss the state’s workforce crisis in the water industry. They explore solutions to rebuild the talent pipeline, including community college training, apprenticeships, certification reforms and industry partnerships.

May 06, 2026

Water Wednesdays: Rethinking Resiliency in Our Water Systems

In this kickoff to The Connector’s “Water Wednesdays” series, three special guests join IEI Policy and Program Manager Jessica Solis Aguilar to explore how local leaders can work together to fortify North Carolina’s water systems against extreme weather, aging infrastructure and other challenges to build a more resilient future.

April 30, 2026

Director’s Message | April 2026

In honor of Earth Day, IEI Director Sarah Hall reflects on the vital role of nature-based solutions in addressing North Carolina’s critical infrastructure challenges. She also highlights the forward-thinking work of NC State faculty and students who are already leading the way by implementing these sustainable strategies across the state.

April 07, 2026

Spring 2026 Strategic Workforce Leadership Initiative Accepting Applications

Applications are currently being accepted for the Spring 2026 Strategic Workforce Leadership Initiative cohort, taking place June 15-18. Only 25 spots are available. Applications are reviewed and accepted on a rolling basis until May 8, or until all spots are filled.

March 30, 2026

Director’s Message | March 2026

With spring in full swing, IEI Director Sarah Hall gives an update on the recommendations from the 2026 forum on water and reflects on the leadership breakfast that officially launched planning for the 2027 forum on housing. She also celebrates the team’s participation at the 2026 Rural Summit and previews a robust lineup of community initiative events in the coming months.

March 11, 2026

Christopher Chung Joins IEI National Advisory Board

IEI is pleased to announce the appointment of Economic Development Partnership of NC CEO Christopher Chung as a new member of IEI’s National Advisory Board.

May 20, 2026

Water Wednesdays: Investing in Our Water Workforce

In this Water Wednesdays episode, IEI Policy and Program Manager Jessica Solis Aguilar welcomes three guests to discuss the state’s workforce crisis in the water industry. They explore solutions to rebuild the talent pipeline, including community college training, apprenticeships, certification reforms and industry partnerships.

May 06, 2026

Water Wednesdays: Rethinking Resiliency in Our Water Systems

In this kickoff to The Connector’s “Water Wednesdays” series, three special guests join IEI Policy and Program Manager Jessica Solis Aguilar to explore how local leaders can work together to fortify North Carolina’s water systems against extreme weather, aging infrastructure and other challenges to build a more resilient future.

December 02, 2025

Watt’s Next?

In the season two finale, IEI Policy and Program Manager Tarik Woods is joined by three EIAC members: Andrea DeSantis, Dana Magliola and Claire Williamson. Together, they reflect on the Strategies for Strengthening Our Energy Infrastructure, policy recommendations aimed at helping North Carolinians tackle energy challenges in their communities.