About The Forum 2027

Lead. Influence. Transform.

What is The Forum? NAWB Forum 2027 is the national gathering for workforce leaders committed to strengthening their organizations, their communities, and the workforce system. Through timely discussions and sessions, practical learning, and meaningful peer exchange, The Forum offers an opportunity to step away from the day-to-day and invest in your professional growth.

Who Attends The Forum? Workforce Development Board leaders and staff, business and industry leaders, educators, economic development professionals, policymakers, community partners, and workforce innovators from across the country.

When is The Forum? April 4–8, 2027

Where is The Forum? New York City

Why Should You Attend? The challenges facing workforce development continue to evolve, and so must our leadership. Forum 2027 is designed to provide the ideas, strategies, and relationships that help professionals lead with confidence, influence change, and transform outcomes in their communities.

Explore the Conversations Shaping Workforce Development

Programming will explore six focus areas that reflect the issues shaping workforce development today and into the future:

  • Workforce Board Member Excellence
  • Workforce Board Staff Excellence
  • Apprenticeship Evolution
  • AI and Future Technology
  • Partnerships and Economic Development
  • Local Impact

Whether you’re looking to strengthen your leadership, discover innovative approaches, or connect with colleagues facing similar challenges, Forum 2027 is an investment in your work and the communities you serve.

Mark your calendar now and plan to join us in New York City as we come together to lead, influence, and transform the future of workforce development.

Take the Stage - Submit A Proposal by August 14th

Concurrent Session

Lead a dynamic, 75-minute interactive learning experience designed to equip attendees with practical tools, strategies, and insights they can bring back to their communities.

If selected as a concurrent session presenter, you’ll have the opportunity to:

  • Share innovative practices, programs, and partnerships
  • Engage directly with workforce professionals, policymakers, and industry leaders
  • Provide actionable tools, resources, and lessons learned
  • Receive a special discounted speaker registration rate for NAWB Forum 2027

Spotlight Session

Have a big idea that doesn’t require a full session? Our 10-minute Spotlights are designed for concise, engaging presentations that highlight inspiration, leadership, and storytelling. Think TED Talk-style presentations that you can take in any direction that inspires you. All big ideas are welcome.

If selected as a Spotlight presenter, you’ll have the opportunity to:

  • Take the main stage
  • Share an inspirational story
  • Discuss a key leadership decision
  • Share a transformative experience that shaped who you are or how you approach the work

Build Your Case for Forum 2027

Every year, NAWB Forum brings together the people and ideas shaping the future of workforce development. In the letter below, you’ll get a preview of what to expect at Forum 2027 and why it continues to be the premier event for workforce leaders across the country. We hope you use this letter as a resource as you make your plans to attend.

We hope you’ll join us in New York City next April.

Accommodations and Travel

Lodging

The New York Marriott Marquee will be the official hotel and conference space for The Forum 2027.

Located conveniently in Times Square, you will be situated in the epicenter of New York City excitement!

Hotel block information coming soon!

Getting to New York City

There are three airports in the New York City area to fly into. Find approximate travel times from each airport to the Marriott Marquee Hotel below:

John F. Kennedy International Airport

Taxi/Uber: ~ 1 hour

Public Transport: ~ 1 hour

LaGuardia Airport

Taxi/Uber: ~40 minutes

Public Transport: ~45 minutes

Newark Liberty International Airport

Taxi/Uber: ~30 minutes

Public Transport: ~ 45 minutes