Fredericksburg, VA — Rappahannock Goodwill Industries (RGI) has been selected to present at the 2026 Virginia Workforce Symposium, taking place April 20–21, 2026, at Hotel Madison in Harrisonburg, Virginia.
Hosted by the Virginia Workforce Association, the annual Symposium brings together 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 selected through a competitive review process.
Advancing Skills-Based Hiring in the Age of AI
RGI’s breakout session, titled “Beyond the Resume: Skills-Based Hiring in the Age of AI,” will be presented by Chief Mission Officer Marty Bywaters-Baldwin and Director of Workforce Services Sara Drebes.
The interactive session will explore how artificial intelligence and skills-based assessments are reshaping modern 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/