NWGA Workforce Summit
No matter the industry, our state and Northwest Georgia need a well-trained and educated workforce to thrive.
Join us August 21-22, 2025, for an exciting and engaging forum at the inaugural Northwest Georgia Workforce Summit, where educators, business leaders, and community partners will unite to discuss strategies for enhancing our region’s economic and workforce competitiveness.
Presented in partnership with Georgia Northwestern Technical College, this event promises to be filled with insightful discussions, regional data analysis, and the exchange of best practices aimed at boosting educational attainment and workforce development.
Be a part of this crucial conversation that will shape the future of our region!
| Thursday, August 21 | ||
| 5:30-7:00 PM | Optional Networking Reception Gignilliat Hall Atrium | |
| Friday, August 22 | ||
| 8:30 – 9:00 AM | Registration and Coffee Gignilliat Hall Lobby | |
| 9:00 – 9:10 AM | Summit Kick-off Gignilliat Hall, Goodroe Auditorium | |
| 9:10 – 10:00 AM | The Future of Work in Northwest Georgia Discuss emerging trends, technological advancements, and industries shaping the future workforce in the region. | Moderator: Jason Mock, Greater Dalton Chamber Panelists: Brian Cooksey – Shaw Industries; Judean Guinn – Hamilton Medical Center |
| 10:00 – 10:10 AM | Break | |
| 10:10 – 11:00 AM | Preparing Tomorrow’s Workforce Explore how educational institutions and employers can work together to provide education and training that bridges the skills gap and needs. | Moderator: Kelly Jones, Dalton Utilities Panelists: Dr. Heidi Popham – Georgia Northwestern Technical College; Dr. Gina Kertulis-Tartar – Dalton State College; Brandi Hayes – Calhoun City Schools; Marissa Brower – Catoosa County College & Career Academy |
| 11:00 – 11:10 AM | Break | |
| 11:10 AM – noon | Better Together Examine collaborations that can strengthen workforce initiatives and economic development. | Moderator: Chris Kidd, University System of Georgia Panelists: Barry Gentry– Murray County Chamber of Commerce; Karen Kirchler – Technical College System of Georgia; Stephani Womack – Greater Dalton Chamber of Commerce |
| 12:00 – 1:00 PM | Lunch Pope Student Center | Join facilitated roundtable discussions to share best practices, challenges, and opportunities for collaboration. |
| 1:00 – 1:45 PM | The Power of Partnerships Learn about the formation of RISE, the Regional Industry Support Enterprise formed by the Savannah Economic Development Authority following a 2023 workforce study. | Daniela Perry, Georgia Chamber of Commerce; Anna Chaffin, RISE |
| 1:45 – 2:45 PM | The Path Forward Dr. John Fuchko will lead an interactive discussion leading to action steps, partnerships, and strategies to grow, attract and retain talent. | |