More than 200 employers, educators, workforce and economic development professionals, government officials and students are expected in Jefferson Thursday, Oct. 13, for the Employer Educator Summit hosted by IowaWORKS – Western Iowa and Western Iowa Advantage. According to Workforce Development statistics, 50 percent of Iowa’s jobs require workers with middle skills, but only 33 percent of the workforce as that level of skills. The “workforce gap”
“Last year’s summit in Templeton proved to be successful in turnout and inspiration for attendees to bridge the workforce gap by engaging students with early initiatives to prepare them for the diverse workplace,” a press release stated.
This year’s summit will highlight successes from the past year and showcase innovative programs throughout the state. The summit will include several speakers and round table discussions.
The Employer Educator Summit is sponsored by the Employers’ Council of Iowa, Iowa Economic Development Authority, Black Hills Energy, Alliant Energy and MidAmerican Energy. It will be held at Wild Rose Casino’s Greene Room.