Maryland Business Summit Inspires Bold Actions to Build Talent Pipelines - Governor's Workforce Development Board

Local business leaders gathered to discuss the future of the local economy and ways to engage young people in their workforce

The Maryland Business Summit on Engaging the Future Workforce brought together over 150 leaders from across Maryland’s business, policy, and community sectors at the Ten Oaks Ballroom in Clarksville to discuss initiatives to empower the future workforce. Hosted by the Maryland Governor’s Workforce Development Board (GWDB) and the Annie E. Casey Foundation, the Summit focused on equipping Maryland businesses with strategies to engage and empower the next generation of workers.

The Summit's agenda included keynote addresses, panel discussions, and networking opportunities. Speakers, including GWDB members Marco Avila, Vice President of WSP, and Charnetia V. Young, Director of Diversity Workforce Initiatives for CVS Health, helped businesses understand the benefits of developing youth talent pipelines, sharing best practices, and connecting with local workforce development teams.

“Young people deserve career development opportunities where they can contribute meaningfully, build skills, and work towards their personal goals,” said Carim Khouzami, Chair of the Governor’s Workforce Development Board and CEO of Baltimore Gas and Electric Company. “When young people in our communities can access the employment, income, and benefits they need, our businesses, communities, and state benefit. Investing in young talent is not just corporate social responsibility—it’s smart business.”

The Summit also featured a keynote address by Lydia Logan, Vice President of Global Education and Workforce Development at IBM, who underscored the need to develop future-ready talent through innovative strategies, including skills-based hiring and flexible workplace practices.

“When young people in our communities thrive, our businesses and economy thrive,” said Lisa Hamilton, President and CEO of the Annie E. Casey Foundation. “Today’s discussions showcased the tremendous potential we unlock when we invest in youth talent pipelines.”

Panel discussions highlighted success stories from Maryland companies that have implemented strategies such as internships, summer employment programs, and registered apprenticeships. Business leaders shared insights into the critical role of partnerships with local education and workforce organizations in ensuring program success, and youth shared the benefits of their work experiences and advice to businesses interested in engaging young talent.v The Maryland Governor’s Workforce Development Board and its members will continue collaborating with local partners to support businesses in developing sustainable youth employment pathways and ensuring Maryland’s workforce remains competitive in a rapidly changing economy.