2025 Future of Work

Description

Get ready to rethink, refresh, and revolutionize your approach to the workplace at the upcoming Future of Work event!

The Thurston County Chamber invites businesses, educators, and students to the Future of Work, a half-day event on Wednesday, October 8, 2025, at Saint Martin’s University, dedicated to building the skills and strategies essential for tomorrow's workforce.

Now more than ever, collaboration between industry leaders, education professionals, and career seekers is critical. The Future of Work provides a platform to share insights, analyze workforce trends, and develop actionable pathways for success.

This year's keynote speaker is Jon Girod, Founder & CEO of Quail Homes and Founder of Careers in Construction NW. With over 30 years in construction and community development, Girod has led innovative partnerships between businesses and schools, creating hands-on training opportunities and clear career pathways into the skilled trades. He will share proven strategies for closing workforce gaps, building strong education-employer collaborations, and developing a roadmap for workforce success.

For Businesses:

Identify and address skills gaps to strengthen organizational capacity.

Understand shifting generational attitudes toward employment.

Leverage opportunities for growth and innovation.

Build relationships with educators and fellow business leaders.

For Students & Educators:

Learn how local industries are eager to connect with schools.

Engage directly with business leaders about career pathways.

"This event is more than a conference-it's a call to action," said David Schaffert, President/CEO of the Thurston County Chamber. "When businesses, educators, and students work together, we can create a stronger, more resilient workforce for our community."