Description

As the Rockford region faces increasing employment demands and declining population trends, the Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce (GRCC) is taking proactive steps to address the workforce challenges in its first event in its Community Series titled Future-Ready Workforce – Data, Collaboration, and Action to highlight current initiatives in our region’s school districts as well as ways businesses can be actively involved to ensure a ready and willing workforce in the future.

Employment opportunities in the Rockford region are projected to grow by nearly 1,300 jobs over the next five years according to Lightcast data provided by The Workforce Connection and “availability of skilled workers” ranked as the top barrier for growth according to the soon-to-be released results of GRCC’s new business sentiment survey. The balance between employment demand and the availability of skilled workers is critical to the economic vitality of the region. 

The event will highlight data-driven initiatives shaping workforce development across the Rockford region with representatives from all four major regional public-school districts (Harlem, Belvidere, RPS, and Hononegah). 

Panel Moderator: Angela Kay Larson, CEO, Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce

Panel: 

Jacob Hubert, Harlem High School, District 122

Matthew Fry, Belvidere School District 100 

Bridget French, Rockford Public Schools, District 205 

Chad Dougherty, Hononegah High School, District 207

Attendees will gain valuable insights into how local educational institutions and businesses are working together to develop a sustainable workforce, equipping students with the skills needed to succeed in today and tomorrow’s job markets. 

Designed for business leaders, small business owners, HR professionals, educators, and community members invested in the growth of Rockford's talent pool, the discussion will explore actionable ways to engage in the workforce development process.

Last day to register: March 7

Lunch Menu:

All Meals start with the House Salad:  Mixed Greens, Carrot, Cucumber, Cherry Tomato, 

Champagne Vinaigrette

Attendees get a choice of: 

Chicken Provencal GF

Mushroom Dijon Sauce | Truffle Roasted Fingerling Potatoes | Green Beans & Peppers

- OR -

Pesto Pasta GF & VEG

GF Pasta | Roasted Tomato | Mushrooms | Artichokes | Spinach | Topped with Fresh Basil & Parmesan

You will make your lunch choice during the registration process. It will be a dropdown menu.