Ohio Chapter Hosts Successful Annual Workforce Training Conference with Ohio Workforce Association

The Ohio Chapter of the International Association of Workforce Professionals (IAWP), in collaboration with the Ohio Workforce Association, held its annual Workforce Training Conference on September 19-20, 2024. With over 200 workforce development professionals in attendance, the event proved to be a major success, providing an excellent platform for learning, networking, and sharing best practices.

The conference opened with Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS) Director Matt Damschroder, who outlined the agency’s vision and discussed ongoing efforts to prepare the workforce for new technologies and the influx of employers coming to Ohio. Valerie Nash from 821 Consulting inspired attendees with her keynote on becoming “Dream Makers,” motivating professionals to help individuals achieve their career aspirations. Cassie Palsgrove from Ohio Excels shared valuable insights on artificial intelligence, demonstrating how AI can enhance services to better meet the needs of customers.

Assistant Deputy Director Julie Wirt from the Office of Workforce Development highlighted current projects and future initiatives that solidify Ohio’s leadership in employment services. UI Chief of Staff Alphrena Prince from the Office of Unemployment Insurance shared updates on the new UI system modernization, a progress tracker for claimants, and innovative methods to improve customer engagement and claim filing. Her presentation also provided resources for staff to take back to their counties to assist customers more effectively.

Attendees had the chance to choose from over 20 breakout sessions, where experts discussed a variety of critical topics, including apprenticeships, labor trafficking, labor market information, child support, the electric vehicle project, Comprehensive Case Management and Employment Program (CCMEP), the Reemployment Services and Eligibility Assessment (RESEA) program, human-centered design, de-escalation techniques, poverty, outreach, partnership development, and OhioMeansJobs center best practices.

This year’s event was not only a celebration of Ohio’s workforce development efforts but also an opportunity for professionals to Innovate, Adapt, and Succeed in their respective fields. We look forward to seeing how attendees apply the knowledge gained to transform their local workforce development efforts.

Stay tuned for next year’s event as we continue to build on this momentum!