As America marks its 250th anniversary, leaders across business, education, and entrepreneurship face a common challenge: preparing the next generation with the skills needed to thrive in work, community, and civic life. Join national thought leaders to explore how civic knowledge, employability skills, and emerging technologies like AI are shaping the future of workforce readiness.

Date & Time

  • Thursday, September 17, 2026
  • 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. ET
  • U.S. Chamber of Commerce Briefing Center

What to Expect

The skills that sustain a strong workforce and a strong democracy are deeply connected. Join business, education, and civic leaders for timely discussions about how we prepare the next generation to succeed over the next 250 years.

  • The Business Case for Civics: Hear how civic literacy, trust, and community engagement contribute to stronger workplaces, economic growth, and a more resilient workforce. 
  • Disagree Better, Lead Better: Discover how respectful dialogue, critical thinking, and collaboration prepare young people for success at work and in their communities.
  • The Republic Works When Its Citizens Do: Explore the connection between civic participation, career readiness, and long-term economic opportunity.
  • Civics at Work: What skills are employers seeking today, and how can civic experiences help employees develop them?
  • Preparing for the Next 250 Years: Examine how AI, education, and workforce trends are reshaping the skills needed for tomorrow's jobs.

Who Should Attend

  • Businesses and employers interested in talent development
  • Workforce development professionals
  • Educators and higher education leaders
  • Chamber executives
  • Corporate citizenship and CSR professionals
  • Nonprofit and civic leaders

Speakers

Michael Carney
U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation
President

David Coleman
College Board
Chief Executive Officer

Stefanie Sanford
Civic Ventures
President

Dave Leichtman
Microsoft
Senior Director, Global Elections

Janet Kenefsky
Greater Vancouver Chamber
Chief Operating Officer

Sal Khan
Khan Academy
Founder & CEO

For questions, please contact Rina Levy, rlevy@uschamber.com.