Annually, NAWDP recognizes individuals, programs, and employers that display exemplary performance in workforce development. Award winners are recognized at NAWDP’s Youth Symposium.
NAWDP presents the following awards at the Youth Symposium:
- Youth Workforce Professional of the Year: recognizes exceptional behind-the-scenes customer service that pushes past internal silos to link different teams and accomplish workforce development project goals within an organization.
- Youth Program of the Year: recognizes significant contributions in developing youth workforce development programs.
- Youth Employer of the Year: recognizes exemplary contributions to the workforce development system in assisting youth to gain meaningful employment. It is bestowed upon an employer who partners with workforce programs to provide employment opportunities.
The award nomination period for 2025 is closed.
2024 Youth Workforce Award Recipients

Youth Workforce Professional of the Year
Lee Ann Weaver-Hayes
Workforce Development Coordinator
Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC)

Youth Workforce Program of the Year
Connected Lane County, Oregon

Youth Workforce Employer of the Year
Nacho’s Restaurant
San Angelo, Texas
Partnership: Concho Valley Workforce Board