Future Workforce: Understanding and Empowering the Next Generation

As employers across the West of England respond to rapid changes in technology, workforce expectations and skills demand, this FREE practical event will explore what the future of employability looks like, how businesses can play an active role in shaping opportunity and improve productivity and social mobility.

Join the Youth Guarantee team from the West of England Mayoral Combined Authority and the Western Training Provider Network (WTPN) for a session designed to help businesses understand, attract and develop the next generation of talent.

This free event is for you if you want to:

• Better understand the future workforce
• Build the skills required to employ and develop young people
• Support inclusive growth and social mobility
• Connect with Youth Guarantee and WTPN support

Sign up today to secure your free place and start your journey towards understanding and empowering the next generation of talent.

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Agenda

9am to 9.30am: Arrival, check-in & breakfast
Networking with peers from across sectors

9.30am to 9.35am: Welcome & introduction
Overview of the Youth Guarantee Trailblazer.

9.35am to 10.10am: Keynote: Navigating the Future
Alice Macleod – Founder and Director, Tribe Associates

Drawing on workforce research, developmental psychology and extensive experience working with employers, education and government, Alice will explore:

• Future trends in employability and skills, including the impact of technology and societal change on early-career roles
• The expectations, motivations and development needs of Gen Z and emerging Gen Alpha
• How businesses can empower young people, strengthen social mobility and build sustainable talent pipelines

10.10am to 10.35am: Fireside chat

Alex Richards, Network Managing Director at WTPN, in conversation with Maya Blackmore, Graduate of Aviva's People Graduate Scheme.

A real-world perspective on recruiting, developing, and supporting young people within organisations.

10:35am to10:50am: Coffee break

Grab a coffee and network with peers

10.50am to 11.30am: Panel

Chaired by Alex Richards, Network Managing Director - WTPN

James Bruno, Lead Manager - Fowlers of Bristol

Sarah Stephens-Lewis, Assistant Principle for Apprenticeships, Adult and Employer Engagement - South Gloucestershire College

Melanie Lavin, Participation and Learning Manager - 1625 Independent People

Amy Stobie, Co-founder - Agency UK

Kelly Delahunty, Apprenticeships & Early Careers Advisor - Southern Co-op

Featuring experts from across employment, education, training and industry to share learning, lived experience and practical takeaways.

11:30am to 11:45am: Panel Q&A

11:45am to midday: Closing reflections.

Key takeaways and next steps for your business.

Midday to 13:00pm: Lunch and networking

Stay for lunch and network with your peers. There will also be a chance to chat with our experts in our clinic, and talk to WECA and WTPN colleagues in our marketplace.

About the organisers

The West of England Mayoral Combined Authority improves transport, housing and skills to boost investment and develop pathways to jobs in the region. Led by Mayor Helen Godwin, the West of England includes Bath & North East Somerset, Bristol and South Gloucestershire, working closely with North Somerset.

The Youth Guarantee Trailblazer is a UK government initiative aimed at supporting young people aged 18–21 in our region to find work, training or apprenticeships.

The Western Training Provider Network is a not-for-profit community bringing together training providers, universities, charities and awarding bodies. WTPN works with government, employers, schools, parents and residents to open up skills, education and apprenticeship opportunities.