1^st Regional Education Convener Conference

1st Regional Education Convener Conference Brings Together Leaders to Reimagine Education and Workforce Alignment

January 31, 2024 | The Ion, Houston

On Wednesday, January 31, 2024, educators, workforce professionals, industry leaders, and community partners from across the Gulf Coast region convened at The Ion in Houston for the inaugural Regional Education Convener Conference. This first-of-its-kind gathering, hosted by the Gulf Coast Workforce Board, aimed to strengthen collaboration between education and workforce systems and align regional efforts to better prepare young people for high-demand careers. 

A Day of Insight, Innovation, and Collaboration

The event began with a networking breakfast, setting the stage for a day full of shared insights and strategic conversations. Attendees quickly engaged in meaningful dialogue around the region's challenges and opportunities in career readiness and workforce development.

At 9:30 a.m., Juliet Stipeche, Executive Director of the Gulf Coast Workforce Board, welcomed attendees with opening remarks that underscored the importance of regional coordination and innovation in education-to-career pathways—particularly in high-growth sectors such as construction, healthcare, and technology.

Participants were then invited to explore The Ion, Houston’s innovation hub, during a guided tour, while others attended a concurrent Youth & Career Services Presentation. This session shared best practices in student engagement and workforce preparation programs that support long-term career success. 

Industry Panels and Practical Tools

The morning continued with the Career Exploration & Apprenticeship Panel, moderated by the Gulf Coast Workforce Board and featuring insights from:

• Paul Puente – Gulf Coast Workforce Board
• Carla Thompson – Turner Construction
• Erica Castro – HCA Healthcare

Panelists highlighted the value of industry-education partnerships in expanding access to apprenticeships and hands-on career experiences for students.

This was followed by a Career Exploration Demo led by Parker Harvey, showcasing tools and technology that help students navigate labor market trends and explore viable career pathways.

Focused Workshops and Data-Driven Dialogue

In the afternoon, attendees engaged in the ALICE Workshop presented by United Way, which addressed the unique needs of Asset-Limited, Income-Constrained, Employed (ALICE) individuals. The session focused on how schools and workforce systems can implement supports that meaningfully impact low-income working families.

A key data-focused highlight of the day was the GAP Analysis Presentation, delivered by Dr. Horn and Cami Anderson of ThirdWay Solutions. The session took a deep dive into disparities between education outcomes and labor market demands, sparking conversations around strategic alignment and regional solutions. 

Fostering Innovation Through Entrepreneurship

The day concluded with a powerful Entrepreneurship Panel, featuring CTE students and educators who shared their experiences fostering entrepreneurial mindsets in the classroom. Their stories underscored the need for adaptability and innovation in preparing students for evolving industries. 

A Launchpad for Regional Change

The 1st Regional Education Convener Conference was more than a one-day event it was the beginning of a movement toward stronger alignment between education systems and workforce needs. By convening leaders from K-12, higher education, industry, and community organizations, the conference laid the foundation for impactful partnerships and regional transformation.

As participants departed The Ion, they left with new ideas, valuable connections, and a shared commitment to equipping the next generation for success in a dynamic, opportunity-filled economy.