The University of Tennessee Center for Industrial Services hosted the inaugural Tennessee Workforce Development (TNWFD) Academy

The UT Center for Industrial Services hosted the inaugural Tennessee Workforce Development (TNWFD) Academy in Knoxville February 18-20, 2025. This two-and-a-half-day training event supported learning, networking, and collaboration among  economic and workforce development partners and stakeholders.

The course featured collaborative activities and panel discussions on critical topics such as skills gaps, workforce challenges and emerging trends. Expert instructors and panelists shared invaluable insights on workforce strategies and promising practices to address key state and regional goals. The class heard presentations and panel discussions from nineteen leading experts in economic and workforce development.

Participants commented that the course included “a fabulous roster of speakers covering the many interesting facets of workforce development,” and that “it exceeded the highest expectations for an academy of this kind.”

Academy attendees represented various organizations, including state government agencies, local workforce development boards, private sector, local elected officials and economic development organizations.

The course concluded with a graduation ceremony. Dr. Herb Byrd III, UT Institute for Public Service Vice President, presented completion certificates with celebratory cupcakes.

Visit our website for more information about the TNWFD Academy: https://www.cis.tennessee.edu/economic-development/tennessee-workforce-development-academy