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Driving The Future Forward - 42nd Annual Conference

May 6, 2026 - May 8, 2026

Description

May 6th-May 8th, 2026

 Multiple Registration Options Available. 

Member: 3 Day - $540 -- Non-Member: 3 Day - $600

Member: 2 Day - $500 -- Non-Member: 2 Day $560

Member: 1 Day - $445 -- Non-Member: 1 Day - $515

REGISTRATION CLOSES 4/20/2026


Arrive Early - Before the main stage opens, join a small‑group session
 with our Pre-Conference Series

Policy & Advocacy Update - Join Bill Bova and Chris Andresen to learn What Workforce Leaders Need to know. Get the latest insights from government relations experts and key stakeholders on issues impacting workforce development     

Workforce Pell Update - Lynette Kuhn, Ed.D., Deputy Secretary for Postsecondary & Higher Education, Pennsylvania Department of Education + James Martini, Executive Director, Pennsylvania Workforce Development Board  

JOBS THAT WORK - Nick Beadle, Jobs That Work, brings a candid, real‑world perspective on how the workforce 
Systems can better serve employers, workers, and communities. 

Click Here to go to the Pre - Conference Series Event Page



SPONSORS AND EXHIBITORS

Spaces are filling up quickly! Sponsor and Exhibitor registrations will close on April 4, 2026. Please reach out to Becky Conte, Director of Events, bconte@pawork.org, with any questions! 

2026 Annual Conference Vendor Prospectus


SCHEDULE


Click here for a pdf version of the agenda

WORKSHOP SCHEDULE 2026






Click Here for a PDF Workshop Schedule


HERSHEY LODGE AND CONVENTION CENTER

Guests may contact the Hershey Lodge Reservation office at 855-729-3108, (toll-free number) and ask for the room block for the PA Workforce Development Association Annual Conference, May 05 - 08, 2026.  You can also click the link below. The group rate is $203.00 per night plus 11% taxes. 


 Reservation Link:  Hershey Lodge Group Rate Reservation Link


You will be asked for a Group Code: 6766819 and a General Attendee Password: PWDA2026. Guests will need to change the dates to their desired stay dates to check for availability. 

 

Reservations must be made before Monday, April 06, 2026. 


OFF - SITE LODGING

Room Block deadline is April 12th, 2026

Hilton Garden Inn Hershey - $109/ night plus tax. 

Online Booking Link:   https://group.hiltongardeninn.com/ix0wvd

Reservations may be made via www.Hershey.GardenInn.com or on the Hilton App:  Use Group Code PWDA26 under Special Rates

For Reservations by Phone:  Call (717) 566-9292 and reference the Group Name or Group Code above.

Any modifications or cancellations require a 72 hr notice before arrival.  The room block is available for May 6 and May 7. 


Courtyard by Marriott Hershey Chocolate Ave - $164/ night plus tax.

To reserve your room, click this link: Courtyard by Marriott Room Reservation Link

Any modifications or cancellations require a 48 hr notice before arrival.  The room block is available for May 6 and May 7. 

HEADSHOT PHOTOGRAPHER NEEDED

📸 We're seeking a Headshot Photographer!
PWDA is accepting proposals for a conference headshot photographer for our May 6–8, 2026, Annual Conference in Hershey, PA.

👉 Full RFP + details: Annual Conference - Headshot Photographer RFP
⏰ Deadline: April 3, 2026

#RFP #PhotographyJobs #PAEvents


WHY ATTEND!

Pennsylvania's workforce development system and professionals are best equipped to navigate the changing economic times and complex rules and regulations, and to center employer, worker, job-seeker, and youth customers for success.

Join us at this year's 42nd Annual Conference to seize opportunities, address challenges, demonstrate impact, and drive innovation. Through inspiring keynotes, thought-provoking sessions, and dynamic networking opportunities, the event offers actionable strategies to transform your work and impact. 

Whether you're looking to explore cutting-edge trends, collaborate across sectors, or gain insights from industry leaders, this conference is your chance to elevate your expertise, expand your network, and make a real difference in the future of workforce and economic development. 

Don’t miss the opportunity to engage, learn, and lead as we tackle today’s most pressing issues and create a brighter tomorrow through a strong workforce.




Get the Latest on PWDA Events, Advocacy, Membership and more! 

www.pawork.org 


Pricing

Registration Options include 3-day Member/Non-Member discounts apply.  

Additional fees may apply if you want to attend the Pre-Conference sessions or only the Awards ceremonies.


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Contact Information

PA Workforce Development Association
Name: Becky Conte
Email: bconte@pawork.org
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