The eighth annual Workforce2030 Conference is returning to Saint Charles! Workforce2030 will explore the many strategies and programs that Missouri’s employers, educators and organizations can implement leading up to the year 2030 to make our state the home of a thriving, vibrant workforce.
Member rate: $350
Non-member rate: $450
The 2026 conference will be held at the Saint Charles Convention Center. 1 Convention Center Blvd., St Charles, MO 63303.
A block of rooms have been held at the Embassy Suites connected to the convention center. Book by Sept. 6 to get the discounted $169/night rate.
Check back for information on continuing education credits!
Dr. Christopher Laney is the Vice President of Public Sector Impact and a Labor Economist at Lightcast, where he specializes in education, workforce development, economic mobility, and using labor market data to create a more equitable workforce within communities. Laney leads initiatives within Lightcast’s Public Sector division, working alongside national nonprofits and foundations to develop strategies for workforce transformation and systemic change. His efforts focus on preparing communities for the future of work and building pathways that promote greater social and economic equity.
Throughout his career at Lightcast, Laney has collaborated with state governments on the development of policies related to education and labor markets. He has also partnered with a variety of stakeholders on key projects related to legislative priorities, including credentials of value, emerging industries, sector analysis, and the economic impact of workforce and career and technical education (CTE) programs. His work has spanned several states, including Indiana, Michigan, Florida, Maryland, and Mississippi.
Before joining Lightcast, Laney was a workforce development practitioner in Florida, where he led the nation’s largest high school student exploration conference. He also developed legislative priorities for the local workforce board and brought together community stakeholders statewide to address education and workforce challenges. Laney’s research, including his dissertation on the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) and its impact on the economic mobility of disenfranchised young adults, has influenced both policy and practice. He also served as the lead researcher for the State of Students report in Florida from 2015 to 2020.
Photo coming soon!
Bio coming soon!
Photo coming soon!
Bio coming soon!
Photo coming soon!
Bio coming soon!
Robin Phillips has dedicated 22 years to strengthening Missouri’s early childhood systems through her work at Child Care Aware of Missouri (CCAMO). Since becoming CEO in 2017, she has more than doubled the organization’s budget and staff capacity, and significantly diversified funding.
With deep knowledge of Missouri’s child care infrastructure and its challenges, Robin partners with state and local leaders to position early childhood education as a well-resourced, essential industry. She collaborates with national leaders to stay informed on federal policy and funding trends affecting Missouri families and providers.
Since April 2022, Robin has been advancing high-quality child care as a key driver of economic development and workforce participation across the state. Under her leadership, CCAMO launched Child Care Keeps Missouri Working℠ in 2024. Under this strategic priority, CCAMO has operationalized a statewide subsidy navigation call center, concierge referrals, and Child Care Works, powered by TOOTRiS, including a statewide child care cost share model and a local pilot in Kansas City supporting first responders. She was also successful in obtaining St. Louis County funding for Missouri’s first-ever WAGE$ program.
Robin holds a bachelor’s degree from Missouri State University, a nonprofit management certificate from Duke University, and is a John Maxwell Certified Leader.
Photo coming soon!
Bio coming soon!
Workforce2030 is our largest and most attended conference of the year. If you’re interested in learning more, contact Chris Burruss at cburruss@mochamber.com or call 573-634-3511.
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2030 is just five years away. It’s going to take a unified effort from all of us – the business community, policymakers and educators – to position Missouri as a global economic leader.
Workforce2030 will focus on what’s happening right now in Missouri — and what needs to happen going forward — to ensure the Show-Me State is home to a thriving, vibrant workforce.
We are still finalizing the agenda full of dynamic keynotes, interactive breakout sessions and networking opportunities!
Business leaders, HR professionals, policymakers and educators – this event is for you!
Yes! Connect with more than 200 conference attendees during dedicated networking breaks. Sponsors and exhibitors enjoy prime exhibit booth placement with ample time for interaction with attendees during meal functions, breaks and a dedicated exhibitor reception. We welcome your company’s participation and look forward to displaying your logo on conference promotional materials, providing your organization with added recognition and visibility.
For more information, please contact Chris Burruss at cburruss@mochamber.com.
If you have questions about Workforce2030, please contact Brian Crouse.
