The 2nd annual SkillUpAmerica Summit takes place virtually from April 21-23, 2026. This free workforce development conference gathers innovators and professionals to share best practices, learn, and empower each other. This year’s theme is “The Workforce Rebellion” – reject outdated systems and empower professionals to reshape the future of work themselves. Secure your spot and register today!
As artificial intelligence continues to reshape the workforce, Capital Region Workforce Development Executive Director Brian Williams and Metrix Learning/Workforce 180 Account Management Director Kerry Twomey joined CBS6 to discuss how AI is impacting jobs across industries and what workers can do to prepare for the future.
In today’s workforce, apprenticeships bridge hands-on work experience with classroom instruction, preparing workers for high demand careers. This underutilized model of workforce development blends paid on-the-job training and structured skills development in a variety of industries, resulting in higher skill competency and job retention.
A gradual erosion has taken hold of traditional pathways to finding and securing work, including the reliance on resume templates, job centers, and even mentorship and career coaching. Now, the influence of artificial intelligence (AI) ripples through industries and jobs worldwide as a new and far more convenient set of sidekicks emerge.
Check out key insights shared by workforce leaders across the nation.
Over 500 attendees joined Workforce Development thought leaders to explore the future of workforce readiness and skills development.
The innovative approach of gamification is a literal workforce development game-changer that integrates interactive challenges, progress tracking and performance-based rewards. It utilizes the power of psychology management to ensure knowledge and participant retention that infuses talent pools with sustained skills development.
“We are thrilled to bring this resource statewide to empower Oregonians to improve their skills and pursue meaningful employment,” said Heather DeSart, Chair of the Oregon Workforce Partnership. “By removing barriers to training, SkillUp Oregon ensures that everyone, regardless of their circumstances, has the opportunity to grow professionally and personally.”
The economy can draw only so much from capital and innovation; for real growth, it needs people—more specifically, it needs a well-skilled workforce. One of the labor force’s main resources for consistent and industry-aligned talent is the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), which has prepared millions of job seekers to meet the demands of the labor market. For the past decade, WIOA has been a driving force and conduit of federal funds to state and local workforce development boards.
“Equus Workforce Solutions is thrilled to partner with Metrix Learning to offer learning content designed to help those we serve build the skills and knowledge needed for workplace success. In addition to providing our participants, clients, and students with the tools to achieve their goals, Metrix’s vast library of professional development content is available to our team members. This enables them to better serve our customers while also growing and developing in their roles, ultimately achieving their own personal success.” – L. Bradley Williams, Equus Chief Customer Officer
