Workforce Forum: From Vision to Action - January 2026

Description

The region’s workforce is evolving, and building the talent pipeline our businesses and communities need requires bold action and collaboration. The 2026 Workforce Forum is a half-day event designed to give HR leaders, executives, educators, nonprofit professionals and community decision-makers the insights and tools to address current challenges and plan for the future of work.  

Keynote speaker Rebecca Ryan, nationally recognized futurist, will provide a forward-looking perspective on workforce trends. Participants will also hear local, data-driven updates on housing, child care, immigration and support for individuals experiencing homelessness. A hands-on skills-based hiring workshop offers actionable strategies that can be applied immediately in organizations of any size. 

This convening is held in collaboration with United Way of Cass-Clay, and in partnership with the NSF AgTech Engine in North Dakota, Minnesota DEED Drive for Five, and FMHRA (affiliate of SHRM), aligning regional efforts to accelerate workforce innovation and impact.

*Registration includes lunch

AGENDA

11 a.m. | Doors Open

• Check in or registration, networking and connection with community partner booths and resources

11:30 a.m. | Welcome

• Shannon Full, President and CEO, Fargo Moorhead West Fargo Chamber of Commerce

11:35 a.m. | Keynote - Built to Win: The FMWF Advantage...and How to Leverage It

• Rebecca Ryan (APF, FRSA), Founder, NEXT Generation Consulting, Inc. 

12:35 p.m. | Lunch

• Lunch buffet provided; networking and connection with community partner booths and resources

1:20 p.m. | Community Impact Updates

• Unhoused Populations
• Immigration
• Childcare
• Housing

2 p.m. | Networking & Refreshments

• Networking and connection with community partner booths and resources, light hors d'oeuvres provided 

2:15 p.m. | Skills-Based Hiring Workshop

• Allen Mavis, Consulting Facilitator, MN Skills-Based Hiring Accelerator

4:15 p.m. | Closing Remarks

4:30 p.m. | Event End

In partnership with