Celebrating One Year of the Connector Series

We’re excited to mark one year of the Connector Series—a milestone that reflects not just consistency, but a growing commitment to strengthening collaboration across industries.

Over the past year, the Connector Series has created space for professionals in Workforce Development (WFD) and Adult Education to come together, exchange ideas, and build meaningful relationships. What started as a simple gathering has evolved into a trusted space for connection, insight, and shared strategy.

At its core, the Connector Series is about community—bringing together leaders, practitioners, and partners who are all working toward stronger, more resilient local

Strengthening Partnerships That Matter

Each event has reinforced the importance of alignment between workforce and economic development efforts. As industries evolve and workforce needs shift, collaboration across sectors is no longer optional—it’s essential.

Through open dialogue and shared experiences, attendees have been able to:

• Exchange real-time insights from their respective fields

• Build partnerships that extend beyond a single event

• Discussed  innovative approaches to workforce challenge

• Hear from prominent local leaders -  Dr. Unique Morris Hughes, District of . Columbia Secretary of Labor and Director, Department of Employment Services, DOES; Drew Hubbard, Executive Director, DC WIC; and Phillip Thomas, Senior Project Manager & Corporate Affairs, Clark Construction Group.

This continued engagement is helping to shape a more connected

Spotlight on Industry: Clark Construction

As part of this milestone event, we were pleased to hear from Phillip Thomas, a Senior Project Manager from Clark Construction Group, who provided valuable insight into the company’s ongoing commitment to workforce development within the communities they serve.

The presentation highlighted how Clark Construction Group is actively investing in workforce initiatives, creating pathways for local talent, and contributing to long-term economic growth.

A key focus of the discussion was their involvement in the $3.7 billion public-private partnership to redevelop the RFK Stadium site in Washington, D.C., which will become the future home of the Washington Commanders.

This project represents more than a major infrastructure investment—it serves as an example of how large-scale development can also drive workforce opportunities, community engagement, and regional impact.

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