Created in 2005 by the National Association of Workforce Development Professionals (NAWDP), Workforce Development Month is recognized each September to raise awareness of the vital work workforce development professionals do to connect employers with the skilled workforce they need.
How is MAX focusing on the important role of workforce developers this Workforce Development Month? Through the recruitment of our third cohort of Leadership MAX!
As part of our ongoing commitment to providing high-quality professional development and meaningful network-building opportunities, Leadership MAX is a competitively selected, cohort-based leadership development program created specifically for workforce development professionals. Designed for emerging, established, and experienced leaders alike, Leadership MAX equips participants with the knowledge, relationships, and leadership capacity needed to strengthen our region’s workforce ecosystem.
Building on the success of our inaugural Class of 2025 and the Leadership MAX Class of 2026 – presented by Amazon – the Class of 2027 will continue bringing together a diverse group of workforce developers representing workforce boards, education, economic development, business and industry, community-based organizations, government, philanthropy, and nonprofit partners.
A Leadership Experience Built for Workforce Professionals
Leadership MAX combines retreat-style leadership development, interactive learning days, executive discussions, field experiences, and service-learning opportunities into a dynamic, year-long experience.Throughout the year, participants will engage in immersive learning while building lasting relationships with peers who share a commitment to advancing workforce development across our region for years to come.
Why Leadership MAX?
Leadership MAX is designed to help participants:
- Strengthen leadership skills and executive presence.
- Expand their understanding of Georgia’s workforce ecosystem.
- Build meaningful relationships across sectors.
- Learn from experienced workforce leaders and subject matter experts.
- Collaborate with peers to address complex workforce challenges.
- Upon graduation, join a growing network of Leadership MAX alumni committed to advancing workforce excellence throughout metro Atlanta and Georgia.
More than a professional development program, Leadership MAX is an investment in the future of workforce leadership. Graduates become part of a trusted network of professionals who continue to learn from one another, build partnerships, and create lasting impact long after the program concludes.
If you’re looking to grow your leadership within the workforce development community, expand your professional network, and develop into a community of peer leaders you can continue to learn from and turn to for solutions, Leadership MAX may be the right opportunity for you.
Apply to be a part of our Leadership MAX Class of 2027! Applications are due September 25, 2026. Click here to apply.
ABOUT WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT MONTH
Created in 2005 by the National Association of Workforce Development Professionals (NAWDP), Workforce Development Month raises awareness about the importance of the workforce industry to a growing national economy. Originally celebrated in May, NAWDP moved the designation to September in 2012.
As a highly skilled workforce development professional, you provide critical links in your community between businesses looking to hire jobseekers, and education, training and support resources. With a few simple activities, you can help remind elected officials, other workforce and education entities and customers about the value your programs and services bring to the local economy.
NAWDP has several resources available to help you and/or your organization participate in celebrating Workforce Development Month. Click here to learn more and access.