The MSU Office of Research and Economic Development is hosting a symposium Thursday [Dec. 1] focused on the future of workforce training and professional development.

The symposium will take place from 1 p.m. - 4:40 p.m. in section M of the Colvard Student Union Ballroom. Click here to register. 

The program will include a round of 10-minute lightning talks, a panel and presentations about initiatives in workforce training and professional development. Following the 10 minute lightning round presentations the floor will open for discussion around topics of interest and engagement for all those in attendance.  This is a great way to learn about and/or share what you or others are doing across campus.  

Does your work involve the recruitment, training, and retention of skilled labor in Mississippi? Whether you are researching workforce challenges or developing innovative programs this symposium provides a casual, networking forum designed to (1) hear across campus who is doing what on this topic, (2) allow people to connect and network with one another, and (3) help think into the future. This symposium is designed for MSU administrators, faculty, and staff to interact with one another along with a selected group of external professionals.   

A full agenda is below:

1:00 p.m. — Panel Discussion: Workforce Training and Professional Development Initiatives  

1:30 p.m. — Panel Discussion Q&A   

1:45 p.m. — Lightning Talks Begin (10 minutes each w/5 minute Q&A)   

3:00 p.m. — Break  

3:15 p.m. — Continue Lightning Talk  

4:30 p.m. — Larger Q&A/Informal Discussion Among Attendees   

5:00 p.m. — Adjourn