Executive Director, Pennsylvania Workforce Development Association
Bio:
Lauren Holubec, Ed.D., is the Executive Director of the Pennsylvania Workforce Development Association (PWDA) with nearly two decades of experience across state and local workforce systems, higher education, and economic development. She has led statewide strategy, policy advocacy, and system modernization initiatives, and is committed to elevating practitioner voice, cross-state learning, and equitable workforce solutions.
What is your vision for the workforce development profession?
My vision for the workforce development profession is one where people feel proud of the work they do and supported in how they do it. Workforce professionals should be seen as problem-solvers and community leaders, not just program managers. I believe in sharing what works across states, simplifying systems for employers and job seekers, and making sure practitioner voices shape policy. At its core, workforce development should open doors, strengthen communities, and help people navigate change.
Do you have a particular interest area or passion in workforce development?
I am especially passionate about building strong, connected workforce systems that truly work for people and employers. My interests include workforce–education alignment, youth and early career pathways, and helping states and local areas modernize systems to reduce silos and employer fatigue. I am also deeply committed to elevating practitioner voice, supporting peer learning across states, and advancing equitable access to high-quality career pathways.
Why do you want to serve on the Board?
I want to serve on the NAWDP Board because I believe deeply in the power of this profession and the people who do the work every day. Workforce leaders are navigating rapid change, increasing complexity, and rising expectations, and they need strong peer leadership and advocacy. Serving on the Board would allow me to give back, elevate practitioner voice, strengthen cross-state learning, and help ensure NAWDP remains a trusted, practical, and forward-looking home for workforce professionals.
What do you think is the biggest challege facing the profession today and how can NAWDP address that challenge?
One of the biggest challenges facing the workforce development profession today is uncertainty around WIOA reauthorization and funding, which creates instability for all elements of the profession. Having worked alongside state and local workforce leaders navigating these pressures in real time, I’ve seen how uncertainty strains capacity and planning. NAWDP can support members by providing clear policy translation, timely guidance, peer learning, and strong national advocacy.