SWLI Agenda
Curriculum for the Spring 2026 Strategic Workforce Leadership Initiative
Developing a regional skilled workforce requires well-informed leaders on topics such as economics, government, education and training, data analytics and system building. The Strategic Workforce Leadership Initiative will introduce participants to these topics and their role in developing a regional workforce ecosystem.
The Strategic Workforce Leadership Initiative was designed by those in workforce development, economic development, industry, government and others to help enhance the workforce development profession by providing leaders with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed today while preparing them for what may come tomorrow. Course certification is provided by the Workforce Leadership Institute.
Spring 2026 Cohort Dates:
June 15-18, 2026
Session Topics
Considering Stakeholders, Trends and Issues in Workforce Development
- Who are the key stakeholders shaping workforce development in my region?
- What current economic or demographic trends most impact workforce strategy?
- How can I better align our programs with these emerging trends?
What Does the Research Tell Us?
- How does the current research challenge or confirm our current practices?
- How can I use data and research to strengthen my organization’s decisions?
- Which findings should inform our future planning and funding priorities?
NC Workforce and Economic Development Priorities
- How is the state navigating workforce and economic development challenges, and what opportunities are emerging as a result?
- What’s working in North Carolina when it comes to funding and policy for upskilling and reskilling?
- Which leadership skills are most essential for those working in workforce and economic development across North Carolina today?
Introduction to the History of Federal Policy in Skills and Education
- How have past policies shaped today’s workforce landscape?
- What lessons can we learn from past successes and failures?
- How can we anticipate and influence future policy changes?
The Process of Public Policy
- What are the stages of public policy development, and where can leaders have the most influence?
- How can I more effectively advocate for workforce initiatives at the local, state and federal level?
- Who do I need to engage to move policy ideas in my region that I am currently not engaging with?
The Job of Storytelling as Leaders
- Why is it important for a leader to help convey the value of workforce programs?
- What stories from my community best illustrate our impact?
- How can I tailor stories to resonate with policymakers, employers and funders?
The Ideal Team Player
- What qualities make an effective team player in the workforce ecosystem?
- Which of these qualities do I already have and which could I strengthen?
- How can these lessons improve my collaboration with partners and team members?
The Process of Skill Development
- What models of skills development have proven most effective?
- How can we balance employer needs?
- What barriers exist in scaling high-quality skills development programs?
Examples of Employer Connections
- What makes partnerships with employers sustainable?
- How can we ensure mutual benefit between business and training providers?
- What practical ideas can I take back to strengthen employer engagement?
Financing Skill Development
- What funding streams currently support skill development in my area?
- How can we braid or leverage funding across systems?
- What creative financing strategies could expand access and sustainability?
Understanding Data and Metrics
- What metrics matter most for success?
- How can I use data to tell a clearer story about outcomes and impact?
- What data gaps impact decision-making?
Skills-Based Hiring and Credentials
- How are employers redefining hiring based on skills rather than degrees?
- What steps can I take to promote equitable, skills-based pathways?
- How do industry-based credentials help workers and businesses?
Challenges Ahead for Workforce Development
- What emerging disruptions are reshaping the field?
- How can my organization prepare for these challenges proactively?
- What role should leaders play in driving strategy development?
Community Dynamics
- How do local factors influence workforce strategy?
- How can we strengthen partnerships with community organizations?
- What equity and inclusion considerations should be top of mind?
Credentialing in Workforce Development
- What trends are emerging in the credential landscape?
- How can we ensure credentials remain relevant and portable?
The Role of Artificial Intelligence (AI)
- How is AI changing entry-level jobs and skill requirements?
- How can workforce systems use AI responsibly and ethically?
- What new opportunities does AI create for workforce development?
Understanding Individual and Group Leadership
- What’s my personal leadership style, and how does it impact my team?
- How can I adapt my leadership to support diverse groups and stakeholders?
What Do I Do Monday Morning?
- What actionable steps will I take based on what I have learned?
- How will I share insights and apply strategies within my organization?
- What short-term wins can I pursue to build momentum for change?