Support youth on their path to meaningful careers with resources built for workforce professionals like you. From best practices and training opportunities to events, podcasts, and expert insights, this hub is your go-to source for advancing your work and making a lasting impact in youth workforce development.
Featured Youth Success Story
From Uncertainty to Opportunity: A Veteran’s Journey to Lockheed Martin
August 12, 2025
When William Bivens Sr. saw a flyer for the CobbWorks PowerUp! Aircraft Structures/Assembler Pre-Apprenticeship Program, he immediately thought of his son, William Jr. At the time, William Jr., a disabled veteran, was struggling to find direction. Though just 70 hours from finishing an audio production certification, he wasn’t sure what path to take.
Latest Youth News, Resources, and Training
Discover the latest news, tools, and training opportunities designed to support youth workforce professionals and the young people they serve.
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Sarah Kearns: A Rising Star in the Arts, From ArtWorks Student to Mentor
From student participant to mentor, Sarah Kearns embodies the spirit of growth…
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Bayer Electric Honored as NAWDP 2025 Youth Workforce Employer of the Year
The National Association of Workforce Development Professionals (NAWDP) is proud to announce…
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NAWDP Names “Beyond the Stethoscope” 2025 Youth Workforce Development Program of the Year
The National Association of Workforce Development Professionals (NAWDP) is proud to announce…
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NAWDP Names Dr. BJ Paige as 2025 Youth Workforce Professional of the Year
The National Association of Workforce Development Professionals (NAWDP) has named Dr. BJ…
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Turning Determination Into Opportunity
Jalon Marshall joined the KEYS Program in October 2024 with a determination…
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From Uncertainty to Opportunity: A Veteran’s Journey to Lockheed Martin
William Bivens Jr., a disabled veteran unsure of his next steps, took…
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NAWDP Opens Nominations for Annual Youth Workforce Awards
NAWDP is accepting nominations for the 2025 Youth Workforce Awards, to be…
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Opening Doors to Opportunity for Underserved Youth
At Moraine Valley Community College, Tonesha Sanders and the team are building…
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Call for Presenters: RFP Now Open for the 26th Annual NAWDP Youth Symposium
Shape the future of youth workforce development—submit your session proposal for NAWDP’s…
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EP06: Mentorship That Matters: Building Youth Career Confidence
Dr. Scott Brewster shares mentorship strategies to help youth navigate career choices,…
Our Youth Focused Events
NAWDP is committed to supporting workforce professionals who serve young people by offering events that highlight innovative practices, challenges, and solutions in youth workforce development.
NAWDP Youth Symposium
Our signature youth-focused event is the Annual Youth Symposium, held each fall, which brings together practitioners, thought leaders, and partners to share strategies that empower youth in their career journeys. Attendees gain practical tools, network with peers, and explore cutting-edge programs that improve outcomes for youth across the country.