WSDET Inaugural Workforce & Education Summit - The Power of Progress: Where Education Meets Industry

Workforce Solutions Deep East Texas is excited to announce that registration is open for our 2026 Inaugural Summit, The Power of Progress: Where Education Meets Industry. We are both excited and honored to bring together educators, industry leaders, workforce professionals and community partners who share a common commitment to strengthening the future of our regional workforce.

This summit represents the power of collaboration with education and industry where we create pathways that equip individuals with the skills, training, and opportunities needed to succeed in today's evolving economy. Together, we are building stronger partnerships that support employers, empower job seekers, and drive economic growth throughout Deep East Texas.

The keynote speaker for the day is Paul Fain, co-founder of Work Shift, an independent news site covering the intersection of education, work, and economic opportunity. Additional guests include Charlie Glover of the T.L.L. Temple Foundation, Dr. Kelty Garbee and Evan Wolstencroft of Texas Rural Funders, Texas Workforce Commission Commissioner Brent Connett, and other local experts on workforce, education, industry, and business interests.

We look forward to a day of meaningful dialogue, shared ideas, and forward-thinking solutions that will shape the workforce of tomorrow.

Register today to secure your seat!

If you have a question about registration, please call Valerie Salaiz at 936-707-5863 or Megan Morgan at 936-955-2627.

If you are interested in sponsorship opportunities for our inaugural event, please email Valerie Salaiz at vsalaiz@detwork.org.  We look forward to partnering with you!