MONTGOMERY – Alabama is hosting a virtual event with workforce and education leaders from all 50 states next month aimed at preparing America’s workforce for the future.

The 2021 Alabama Interstate Talent Development Convening, a free virtual event taking place on April 5, will bring together experts from across the nation to share talent development strategies and discuss plans to upgrade the knowledge and skills of workers.

Governor Kay Ivey, who will deliver opening remarks, said the event will help strengthen states’ talent development strategies for high-demand sectors.

“Alabama’s workforce development system is recognized as a national leader for innovation and producing positive results. By aligning our education and workforce development programs, Alabama is providing in-demand career pathways for workers throughout all phases of life,” said Governor Ivey. “Alabama looks forward to hosting the Interstate Talent Development Convening where we can share our success and join with others to improve efforts to recruit, train and empower the highly skilled workforce America needs for our future.”

The keynote address will be delivered by Lumina Foundation President and CEO Jamie Merisotis, who is a globally recognized leader in philanthropy, education and public policy. The Lumina Foundation is an independent foundation that is committed to making opportunities for learning beyond high school available to all. Before joining the Lumina Foundation in 2008, Merisotis was co-founder and president of the Washington, DC-based Institute for Higher Education Policy and served as executive director of a bipartisan national commission on college affordability.

The Alabama Interstate Talent Development Convening will also include 18 breakout sessions and more than 45 speakers and panelists from across the U.S. where participants will discuss various subjects related to expanding educational opportunities and workforce training strategies.

To register for this free virtual event, visit www.alabamaworks.com/register.