4th Annual Chesapeake Regional Workforce Summit & Career Fair: Workforce as a Competitive Advantage

The 4th Annual Chesapeake Regional Workforce Summit & Career Fair focuses on the theme “Workforce as a Competitive Advantage.” This regional gathering convenes employers, educators, workforce development leaders, and policymakers to discuss strategies for attracting, developing, and retaining talent across Maryland’s key industries.

The event begins with a keynote session examining how Maryland is positioning itself to grow and sustain a competitive workforce, followed by panel discussions highlighting innovative work-based learning programs such as apprenticeships, internships, and experiential learning opportunities.

Additional micro-sessions will provide insights from HR and executive leaders on what employers are looking for in today’s candidates, as well as a discussion on workforce challenges and talent needs within the startup ecosystem.

The summit concludes with leadership perspectives from regional economic development and workforce organizations, followed by a Career & Resource Fair where job seekers can connect directly with employers and service providers.

Schedule Highlights:

• 1:00 PM – 1:30 PM: Registration

• 1:30 PM – 2:00 PM: Keynote – Maryland’s Competitive Advantage: Attracting and Retaining Workforce

• 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM: Panel – Work-Based Learning

• 3:00 PM – 3:30 PM: Networking Intermission & Snack Break

• 3:30 PM – 3:50 PM: Micro Session – HR/CEO Perspective: What Employers Are Looking for in Candidates

• 4:00 PM – 4:20 PM: Micro Session – Startup Community Workforce Needs

• 4:25 PM – 4:40 PM: Closing Leadership Perspectives

• 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM: Career & Resource Fair (open to all attendees)

Location Details:

• Summit Sessions: CADE Building, Room 219 (Parking in Lot F)

• Career & Resource Fair: CALT Building (Vendors/Job Seekers Parking in Lot G)

Registration:
General Registration: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2026-chesapeake-regional-workforce-summit-career-fair-tickets-1982281513368?aff=oddtdtcreator
Job Seeker Registration: https://WorkforceSummitCareerFair.eventbrite.com
Business Career Fair Registration: https://WorkforceSummitCareerFairBusiness.eventbrite.com