NAWDP Annual Conference
Sheraton Phoenix Downtown, Phoenix, AZ
May 18 – 20, 2026
NAWDP is heading to Phoenix, Arizona, for the 42nd Annual Conference from May 18-20, 2026. This event brings together the nation’s most dedicated workforce development professionals and thought leaders from organizations spanning workforce boards, community colleges, private sector business, economic development, community- and faith-based organizations, and more.
Over three days, attendees will explore innovative strategies, gain fresh insights, and strengthen their ability to adapt in an ever-evolving workforce landscape. The conference will feature inspiring keynote speakers, interactive workshops, and forward-thinking discussions that challenge participants to think critically, act boldly, and rise to meet the opportunities ahead.
This year’s theme, “Rising to the Challenge,” celebrates the resilience, creativity, and leadership that define our field. As workforce professionals, we know that every challenge is an opportunity to grow stronger, collaborate deeper, and make lasting impact.
Join us in Phoenix as we come together to learn, lead, and rise to the challenge—together.
IMPORTANT DEADLINES:
Award Submissions: January 22, 2026
Workshop RFP Submissions: February 1, 2026
Early Bird Registration: February 11, 2026
Hotel Room Block: April 23, 2026
Standard Registration: May 6, 2026
OUR SPEAKERS
Adesewa Adesiji
Workforce Strategy Consultant
Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development
Casey Tiefenwerth
Deputy Director of the Office of Strategic Initiatives
Maryland Department of Labor
Chrissie Klinger
Workforce Development Director at the Institute of Adult Literacy
The Pennsylvania State University
Jessica Cardott
Senior Manager and Policy Strategist, Adult Services
Baltimore Mayor’s Office of Employment Development
Jessica Sances
Assistant Director of Program Development and Evaluation for Transition Pathways
AJ Drexel Autism Institute
Joanne Wang
Associate Dean and Executive Director of Strategic Partnerships
Vanderbilt University School of Engineering
Melvin Shepard Jr.
Workforce Development Consultant and Project Manager
Florida Department of Transportation
Missy Hopson
System Vice President and Chief Learning and Workforce Development Officer
Ochsner Health
Odile Dilone
Campus Director of Workforce Development and Continuing Education
CT State Community College
R. “Reese” Broadnax
Workforce Project Manager/WIOA Equal Opportunity Officer/Interim Board Liasion
Southwest Arkansas Planning & Development District, Inc.
Schedule at a Glance
NAWDP
Become a Sponsor or Exhibitor
Showcase your brand, build meaningful relationships, and position your organization as a leader in workforce development. Become a sponsor or exhibitor at the NAWDP Annual Conference to engage directly with professionals shaping the future of work.
