Triangle Workforce Public Summit

Local governments across the Triangle face persistent challenges recruiting and retaining the talent needed for critical positions. The Triangle Public Workforce Summit will bring together local government leaders for an interactive working session focused on understanding these challenges and identifying opportunities to strengthen career pathways across the region.

When: October 15th, 2026 8:30 am - 11:30 am*

*Breakfast served at 8:30, event begins at 9am

Where: Central Pines Regional Council - 4307 Emperor Blvd, Durham, NC 27703

Participants will work alongside colleagues from their own jurisdiction and peers from neighboring communities to:

• Explore regional workforce trends and findings related to hard-to-fill positions

• Identify the most pressing recruitment and retention challenges facing their jurisdictions

• Map local government career pathways and the barriers that prevent people from entering and advancing in public service

• Learn from PowerCorpsPHL about its community-rooted, employer-responsive approach to workforce development

• Help shape practical regional resources, including internship and apprenticeship pilots, hiring guides, and training tools

We encourage each jurisdiction to send a team of two to four representatives, particularly leaders familiar with positions that are difficult to fill or retain.

Participants may include:

• City, town, and county managers

• Assistant or deputy managers

• Department heads

• HR directors

• Hiring managers

Priority Departments:

• Stormwater and water services

• Public works and utilities

• Parks and recreation

• Social services

The priorities identified during the Summit will directly inform the workforce tools and programs developed after the event, giving participating communities an opportunity to shape the region’s next steps.