At this session, state leaders and other experts will react to a provocative brief authored for this Summit discussion. What roles should state workforce development systems play in this era of worker movement, labor shortages, rapid digitization, and a changing higher education landscape, including the acceleration of free college opportunities? What are the system's comparative advantages and how can they be marshalled toward a new business model through strategic partnerships with other state agencies and local workforce entities? What states are moving quickly to adapt to change and where are they heading?

Moderator:

• Maria Heidkamp, Director of Program Development, John J. Heldrich Center for Workforce Development, Rutgers University

Presenter:

• Kathy Krepcio, Executive Director and Senior Researcher, John J. Heldrich Center for Workforce Development, Rutgers University

Panelists: 

• Mardy Leathers, Director of Workforce Development, Missouri Department of Higher Education and Workforce Development
• Deniece Thomas, Deputy Commissioner, Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development
• Chris White, Associate Commissioner for the Future of Work, New York State Department of Labor