Finding great employees for any organization can be challenging, and keeping them on board presents its own challenges. In response, many creative leaders are adopting strategies that expand talent pipelines to reach a wider variety of candidates based on skills and competencies. Others are exploring ways to build organizations that support internal growth and leadership with a clearer focus on skills and competencies, as well. How can leaders across the workforce ecosystem lead organizational change and partnerships to open opportunities in sectors as diverse as affordable housing and advanced manufacturing?

This event — hosted by the Aspen Institute Economic Opportunities Program on April 16, 2026 — features a conversation with leaders from our Workforce Leadership Academies who are driving changes in industry practices and organizational culture. Their work has not only created more opportunities to get workers to the door, but also supported employees once they’re through the door — for both frontline and leadership roles.

Our speakers include Leah Palmer, executive director of the Maricopa County Community College District’s Arizona Advanced Manufacturing Institute, Tiffany Mangum, executive director of Fresno Housing’s Beyond Housing Foundation, who will share their lessons in leading these changes, and Dee Wallace, senior fellow with the Aspen Institute Economic Opportunities Program.

For more information about this event, including a transcript, speaker bios, and additional resources, visit our website.

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