The 2026 NAWB Forum in Las Vegas brought together workforce leaders from across the country for 4 days of connection, shared learning, and candid dialogue. This year’s theme, Ignite, Innovate, Impact, was reflected throughout the conversations and helped shape the direction of the event.
At the center of that experience for us was KRA’s Podcast Zone, an intentional space designed to capture the voices of leaders in real time. Over the course of the Forum, we recorded 26 podcast conversations with leaders representing 20 states, spanning metropolitan and rural communities, as well as local, regional, and national workforce organizations. Each conversation offered a unique perspective, while collectively pointing to a shared focus on what lies ahead.
The Podcast Zone captured real and authentic insight from leaders across the country. Several priorities stood out. Leaders are moving beyond the buzz around AI and focusing on practical application, exploring how it can strengthen service delivery and better support staff.
Apprenticeship and work-based learning continue to gain traction as scalable solutions for both jobseekers and employers. Advocacy remains critical in a shifting policy environment, where workforce systems must clearly communicate and demonstrate their value. Across every conversation, the importance of strong, intentional partnerships was evident.
As we reflect on the Forum, one thing is clear: This industry is evolving, and it is being shaped by leaders who are willing to listen, adapt, and move the work forward together.
To continue sharing these conversations, we have launched Voices From the 2026 NAWB Forum, where new podcast episodes will be released each week.
Follow along here: Voices From the 2026 NAWB Forum