River Valley Workforce Development Summit
River Valley Workforce Development Summit
The River Valley Workforce Development Summit will unite educators, employers, and community leaders to strengthen workforce pathways and partnerships across the region.
October 10, 2025  ·  Sallisaw Middle School

Welcome to the River Valley Workforce Development Summit!

Thanks to our generous sponsors, this all-day, jam-packed informational event is FREE this year- the inaugural year.

Join us for a day filled with insightful discussions, networking opportunities, and workshops focused on fostering collaboration, addressing workforce challenges, and exploring solutions for economic and workforce growth. This in-person event will create a dynamic platform for stakeholders across industries, education, government, and community organizations to address workforce needs, share insights, and develop actionable strategies that drive sustainable economic development in the River Valley region.

Whether you’re an employer striving to strengthen your workforce, an educator preparing the next generation of talent, or a community leader working to drive economic growth, this summit offers a unique opportunity to collaborate, learn, and connect. Engage in meaningful discussions with industry leaders, educators, and municipal and nonprofit professionals to bridge gaps, share insights, and develop innovative workforce solutions. Together, we can build a stronger, more resilient workforce for the River Valley region.

Mark your calendar and get ready to be inspired! We can't wait to see you there.
Agenda
Friday, October 10
7:45 AM
7:45 AM
7:45 AM - 8:30 AM
7:45 AM - 8:30 AM
Begin the day with check-in and a light breakfast. Attendees will have the opportunity to network and engage in informal meet-and-greets.
8:30 AM - 8:45 AM
8:30 AM - 8:45 AM
An introduction to the summit’s vision, highlighting the importance of workforce development efforts in the River Valley region.
8:45 AM - 9:30 AM
8:45 AM - 9:30 AM
A data-driven presentation exploring labor market trends, anticipated skill demands, and regional economic opportunities shaping the future workforce.
9:30 AM - 9:45 AM
9:30 AM - 9:45 AM
9:45 AM - 10:45 AM
9:45 AM - 10:45 AM
A collaborative discussion on creating effective partnerships between employers, educational institutions, and local communities to address workforce gaps and expand career pathways.
10:45 AM - 11:30 AM
10:45 AM - 11:30 AM
Presentation of regional workforce data and generational workforce trends followed by a moderated conversation with students—“Voices of the Future Workforce”—reflecting on the data and sharing their perspectives on career readiness.
11:30 AM - 12:30 PM
11:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Enjoy a networking lunch and keynote which will provide a big-picture view of Oklahoma’s rapid economic growth and workforce needs, highlighting how education, industry, and community partnerships can align to create opportunities for the future.
12:30 PM - 12:45 PM
12:30 PM - 12:45 PM
12:45 PM - 1:30 PM
12:45 PM - 1:30 PM
Sector-focused roundtables to share employer insights. Discussions will center on strategies to address recruitment, retention, and reskilling.
1:30 PM - 2:30 PM
1:30 PM - 2:30 PM
This session reviews findings from sector roundtables, highlighting key employer issues. Attendees will engage in a gallery walk to explore insights, share perspectives, and contribute input.
2:30 PM - 2:45 PM
2:30 PM - 2:45 PM
2:45 PM - 3:30 PM
2:45 PM - 3:30 PM
A focused discussion on available funding sources, grants, and policy initiatives that support workforce development across sectors.
3:30 PM - 4:15 PM
3:30 PM - 4:15 PM
A motivating keynote to close the day, encouraging attendees to take actionable steps toward long-term workforce investment and regional collaboration.
5:00 PM
5:00 PM
LOCATION
Sallisaw Middle School, 2301 W Ruth Ave, Sallisaw, OK 74955
Map
Location: Sallisaw Middle School, 2301 W Ruth Ave, Sallisaw, OK 74955