Fredericksburg, VA — Rappahannock Goodwill Industries (RGI) has been selected to present at the 2026 Virginia Workforce Symposium, to be held April 20–21, 2026 at Hotel Madison in Harrisonburg, Virginia.
Hosted by the Virginia Workforce Association, the Symposium convenes workforce professionals, educators, employers, policymakers, and community leaders from across the Commonwealth. Nearly 60 proposals were submitted to fill just 35 presentation slots, and RGI’s proposal was chosen through a competitive review process.
RGI’s session, titled “Beyond the Resume: Skills-Based Hiring in the Age of AI,” will be delivered by Chief Mission Officer Marty Bywaters-Baldwin and Director of Workforce Services Sara Drebes.
The interactive breakout session will highlight how artificial intelligence and skills-based assessments are reshaping hiring practices and creating new opportunities for both employers and job seekers. Attendees will:
· Review 2026 survey data from Virginia hiring managers
· Experience a live demonstration of an AI-powered skills assessment tool
· Learn about RGI’s innovative “CareerPath Accelerator” model, which uses skills tryouts, AI insights, and real-time labor market data to connect businesses with qualified talent
“This recognition reflects Rappahannock Goodwill’s commitment to advancing practical, scalable workforce solutions,” said Bywaters-Baldwin. “As hiring evolves, our role is to ensure employers and job seekers have the tools to succeed.”
Drebes added, “Our approach moves beyond resumes and degrees to verified skills and real-time data, increasing access, efficiency, and opportunity.”
The Virginia Workforce Symposium will explore talent pipeline development, employer engagement, economic and community development, and emerging workforce trends.
For more information or to register for the event, visit: https://meetinghand.com/e/virginia-workforce-symposium-2026/
About Rappahannock Goodwill Industries Rappahannock Goodwill Industries strengthens communities by empowering individuals
facing barriers to employment through workforce development, education, and career pathway programs that connect talent to opportunity. Learn more at fredgoodwill.org