Louisiana is taking giant leaps toward securing its economic future. The LABI Foundation, alongside the Louisiana Department of Education and ABC Pelican, will host the Workforce Next Summit on Tuesday, August 4th, at the LABI building. This full-day event connects educators, business leaders, and policymakers to build stronger work-based learning opportunities across the state.
Aligning Education with Local Industry Needs
Louisiana’s economic landscape varies greatly by region, meaning career preparation must adapt to local demands. The summit brings key stakeholders together to help employers launch targeted internship programs. Highlights include:
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Keynote Insights: DOE Chief of Staff Ken Bradford and Dr. Ernie Singleton will discuss K–12 progress and expanding work-based learning.
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Best Practice Panels: Employers like Meta, Sparkhound, and Baton Rouge General will share real-world internship models.
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Regional Strategy: Local chambers of commerce will lead discussions on tailoring workforce initiatives to specific parish needs.
Capitalizing on Legislative Momentum
Louisiana recently passed impactful legislation to streamline career technical education, expand dual enrollment, and consolidate workforce development under LA Works. With over $200 billion in investment projects entering the state’s pipeline, business and education leaders must collaborate to train local talent and prevent the “brain drain.”
Starting Early: K–5 Career Exploration
Preparing the future workforce begins well before graduation. Recent legislation introduces career exploration activities for K–5 students, planting the seeds for diverse career paths early in a child’s academic journey.
As Superintendent Dr. Cade Brumley closes out the event, attendees will celebrate Louisiana’s national leadership in literacy and numeracy growth while focusing on the work ahead.