Employers, business partners and education leaders from across Cumbria are being invited to attend Shaping Tomorrow's Workforce, a major county-wide conference focused on strengthening talent pipelines and preparing young people for the future world of work.
The free event, organised by Cumbria Careers Hub and Cumbria Combined Authority, takes place on Wednesday, 14th October, 2026 at Keswick Pencil Factory.
The conference will bring together employers, schools, colleges, training providers and key partners to explore practical solutions to workforce challenges, share best practice and build stronger links between education and industry.
Alongside employers and partners, the event is also open to secondary school and college leaders, careers leaders and governors who play a vital role in preparing young people for future careers.
Cath Dutton, from Cumbria Careers Hub, said: "This conference is about bringing employers and education together to create practical solutions for the future.
"Employers will gain ideas and connections that can support recruitment and workforce planning, while education leaders will have the opportunity to strengthen partnerships that help young people understand and access local career opportunities.
"Whether you represent a small business, a large organisation, a school, college or governing board, everyone has a role to play in helping Cumbria develop the skilled workforce our economy needs."
The conference comes at a time when national attention is focused on supporting more young people into education, employment and training. The recent Young People and Work report, led by Alan Milburn, highlights the need for employers and education providers to work more closely together to improve opportunities for young people and strengthen future workforce pipelines.
Delegates will hear from expert speakers, take part in interactive workshops and network with organisations from across the county. Topics will include recruiting future talent, meaningful employer engagement, workplace experiences, changing labour market needs and the impact of emerging technologies.
Mark Fryer, Chair of Cumbria Combined Authority, said: "Cumbria has some fantastic businesses, schools, colleges and training providers, all working hard to create opportunities for young people and support our economy. This conference is a chance to bring those people together, share ideas and build stronger connections that will benefit communities across the county.
"Developing the workforce of the future is something we all have a stake in. By working together, we can help ensure young people understand the opportunities on offer to them, businesses can access the skills they need, and Cumbria continues to grow and thrive.
"I would encourage employers, education leaders and partners from across the county to come along, get involved and be part of the conversation. This is a positive opportunity to shape the future together and make a real difference for the next generation."
The conference will conclude with a collaborative session, Let's Make It Work, bringing employers and education partners together to identify shared actions that will support young people and strengthen Cumbria's economy.
Shaping Tomorrow's Workforce takes place from 9am to 3.45pm on Wednesday, October 14, 2026 at Keswick Pencil Factory.
Attendance is free, but places are limited advance booking required.
Find out more and book your place: Find out more and book a free place at Shaping Tomorrow's Workforce by visiting https://www.careershubcumbria.co.uk/employers-volunteers/shaping-cumbrias-future-conference
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