The Maryland Economic Development Association (MEDA) held their Summer Conference in Baltimore at the World Trade Center. Building a Resilient Maryland Workforce was the focus. Developing talent and skill-set as technology continues to develop and jobs become more advanced are a few of the challenges that were addressed.

Secretary Kelly Schulz of the Maryland Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation (DLLR) was the opening keynote speaker. She highlighted DLLR’s vision for fostering economic growth, through job training programs and apprenticeships.  Todd Metcalfe, senior economist from RESI, Towson University presented data that included Maryland’s occupation forecast over the next two years.  Construction and healthcare related jobs are projected for the highest growth followed by professional, scientific and technical jobs. To view RESI’s PowerPoint please visit http://www.slideshare.net/medamd.

Robert Caret, chancellor of the University System of Maryland, presented ways the university system is developing talent. He also shared initiatives to address workforce issues and collaboration efforts with industry. Two panel discussions were held focusing on the preparation of workforce and the ever changing workplace dynamics and how employers are navigating these changes. Resources, partnerships and programs related to workforce were shared.

Secretary of the Maryland Department of Commerce, Michael Gill also spoke to the conference attendees.

To learn more about MEDA please visit www.medamd.com.