The National Association of Workforce Development Professionals® (NAWDP) has opened early bird registration for the 27th Annual NAWDP Youth Symposium, November 16-18, San Antonio, TX.

This year’s theme, Mission: Possible, is about the possibility of what can happen when the workforce development field comes together. A session attended could reshape a program back home. A conversation in the hallway could turn into a new referral partner. A new tool picked up could be the difference for a young person who’s been struggling to find their path. That’s the possibility the NAWDP Youth Symposium creates.

Each year, more than 900 workforce development professionals serving youth gather from across the country, making NAWDP’s Youth Symposium one of the largest events of its kind. Join us at this impactful event to:

  • Network with workforce professionals who serve youth across the country
  • Share your best practices or learn from others who are solving similar challenges
  • Create partnerships with other organizations doing this work
  • Discover innovative programs and potential solutions to the issues you’re facing in your area

This year’s event is focused on the following learning tracks:

  1. ENGAGE: Youth Voice, Outreach, Retention & Belonging
    Center youth perspectives while exploring effective outreach, engagement, and retention strategies that help young people feel heard, valued, connected, and invested in their success.
  2. EMPOWER: Career Pathways, Career Coaching & Workforce Readiness
    Equip youth with the skills, guidance, experiences, and opportunities needed to successfully navigate career pathways and thrive in education, training, and employment.
  3. SUPPORT: Mental Health, Wellness & Resilience
    Strengthen practices that promote mental health, resilience, and holistic well-being for both youth and staff.
  4. CONNECT: Partnerships, Systems & Community Impact
    Build stronger collaborations among workforce education, community, employer, and family partners to improve youth outcomes
  5. ADVANCE: AI, Technology & Emerging Trends
    Explore how artificial intelligence, technology, and emerging trends are transforming the way we prepare, engage, and support the next generation.
  6. INNOVATE: Innovative Programs & Partnerships
    Discover proven strategies, creative partnerships, and innovative programs that are driving positive outcomes for youth and communities.
  7. GENERAL WORKFORCE TOPICS
    These sessions do not fall under any of the learning tracks above, but are relevant to current workforce trends and the professional development needs of the workforce community.

Early bird registration offers the best pricing for this year’s event. Register and pay by September 9 to secure your $100 early bird discount. NAWDP members save an extra $125 (must be logged in to receive discount). Not a member? Join as a member prior to registration to receive your discount. Individual memberships start at $95 per membership cycle.