Eastern Iowa Community Colleges (EICC) will host a regional Business & Industry Forum from 7:30 to 10:45 a.m. Thursday, Oct. 16, at Scott Community College’s Community Center, 500 Belmont Rd., Bettendorf.
 
The event unites business and industry leaders from across the region for one collaborative discussion about workforce needs, economic trends, and strategies to strengthen Eastern Iowa’s talent pipeline.
 
This year, EICC has consolidated its four college-specific forums into one regional event to foster broader collaboration and a more unified approach to workforce development. The forum will highlight key findings from EICC’s recent Workforce Development and Training Survey, followed by a keynote presentation, roundtable discussions, and opportunities for business leaders to directly engage with college administrators and educators.
 
"We know the workforce is changing — and fast," said Ashlee Spannagel, EICC’s Vice Chancellor of Workforce Development. "By bringing industry leaders together in one room, we can identify shared challenges, spark new ideas, and co-create solutions that help both our students and our employers thrive."
 
The agenda features remarks from Scott Community College President Ann Lawler, an introduction from EICC Chancellor Dr. Bryan Renfro, and a keynote presentation by leadership speaker and author Dean Heffta, founder of Clarus Results.
 
Dean HeftaHeffta’s address, "Building a Learning Culture," will explore how organizations can strengthen their ability to adapt and grow through continuous learning — a crucial advantage in today’s fast-changing economy.
 
Following the keynote, attendees will take part in facilitated table discussions to share insights on workforce challenges, training needs, and emerging skills critical to regional industries.
 
The forum concludes with group report-outs and closing remarks summarizing next steps and partnership opportunities between EICC and area employers.
 
Business and community leaders from all industries are encouraged to attend — including those in manufacturing, healthcare, construction, education, agriculture, and more.
 
"Our goal is to make this more than a meeting," Spannagel said. "It’s an ongoing conversation about how we can move forward together and make Eastern Iowa’s workforce stronger for years to come."
 
Attendees can learn more and RSVP at eicc.edu/forum.