What's Happening
Upcoming Events
Make Your Mark - 43rd Annual Conference
5/5/2027 - 5/7/2027
Description
May 5 - May 7, 2027
Hershey, PA
Early Bird Registration Opens November 1st
CALL FOR WORKSHOPS NOW OPEN!
Scan the QR code or click the link below
Annual Conference 2027 Workshop Proposal Submission – Fill out the form
KEYNOTE SPEAKER
JACOB BROWN
Keynote Speaker, Best Selling Author, and Business Coach
After rebuilding his life through creativity and spending more than 15 years as a Creative Director leading team, earning a 40 Under 40 recognition at age 32, his professional success masked significant personal struggles. A painful divorce left him effectively homeless for three months. He battled alcoholism, job loss, and suicidal thoughts during what became the darkest chapter of his life.
It was during that season that he discovered the power of Fail Forward: the ability to transform setbacks into fuel for growth rather than sources of shame. That mindset not only helped him overcome adversity but ultimately became the foundation of his life's work and the inspiration for a book.
Today, he teaches leaders how to Lead From the Core™, a philosophy born from his own journey of resilience and self-discovery. Over the past decade, he has shared this message with thousands from stages around the world and reached millions online. Through powerful storytelling, practical leadership strategies, and his A.V.O.C.A.D.O. Leadership™ framework, he equips leaders to show up authentically, navigate change with confidence, and lead with purpose.
The lessons learned from an unexpected end to an NFL dream, homelessness, heartbreak, and personal struggle have become the wisdom he now shares with others.
His mission is simple: to help people move beyond fear, unlock their potential, and build lives and careers worth celebrating.
Keynote Speaker
Erika Rothenberger
Erika Rothenberger inspires women and organizations to lead with audacity, rise through adversity, and build a life of purpose and power. Erika Rothenberger walks her talk. A high-impact executive in the male-dominated construction industry by day and a keynote speaker, podcast host, entrepreneur, and mom of two by always, she's living proof that you can build a life of both impact and intention.
HERSHEY LODGE AND CONVENTION CENTER
Hershey Lodge and Convention Center
Great American Hall
325 University Drive
Hershey PA 17033
ROOM BLOCK INFORMATION AVAILABLE SOON!
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 43rd 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!
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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.
325 University Drive
Hershey, PA 17033 United States
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