2nd Annual InnovateEd Summit 2025 Brings Together Academia, Government and Industry to Strengthen Talent Pipeline 

Access to a top-tier talent pipeline is one of Montgomery County, Maryland’s key competitive advantages when it comes to attracting and retaining businesses. On April 23, 2025, co-hosted by the Universities at Shady Grove (USG) and the Montgomery County Economic Development Corporation, industry leaders, academia and government gathered to discuss ways the local talent pipeline can be strengthened.

Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich, highlighted the importance of building partnerships across sectors and was joined by WorkSource Montgomery Executive Director Anthony Featherstone, Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Angela Franco, and Chad muntz, Associate Vice Chancellor for Decision Support & Chief Analytics & Insight Officer for the University System of Maryland. The session titled Montgomery County’s Leadership in Education & Talent Development was moderated by the Montgomery County Economic Development Corporation Board Chair, Elana Fine.

Data-Driven Strategies for Workforce Alignment 

Creating pathways for students to enter high-growth industry sectors like life sciences and technology is one way to support students, the data shared during the Summit indicates. One such program, Achieving Collegiate Excellence and Success (ACES), is a collaborative effort among Montgomery County Public Schools, Montgomery College, and the Universities at Shady Grove, that provides students who have been historically underrepresented in higher education with a seamless and supportive pathway to a bachelor’s degree. The program offers comprehensive support and resources, like scholarships, individualized coaching, and career readiness programs to over 2,500 Montgomery County students every year. Additionally, the majority of ACES choose to stay and work in Montgomery County once they receive their bachelor’s degree.   

A Unified Approach to Talent Development 

Also featured during the Summit, Stephen Moret, President & CEO of Strada, Dr. Warren Christopher, Vice President of Sodexo Campus, Jack McDougle, President & CEO of Greater Washington Board of Trade, Amanda Cowley, General Counsel & Senior Vice President of Legal, Strategy & People at USP, and Carrie Brown, Director, Recruiting at X-energy, addressed how companies in the private sector can play a more active role in guiding academia and government to ensure that high-demand skills remain at the core of schools’ curricula, and are based on industry trends. 

Looking Ahead 

Dozens of companies were represented at this year’s event, which closed out with breakout sessions and a networking reception. As participants explored effective strategies for connecting students with employers, including the importance of internships, apprenticeships, and mentorship programs that can offer real-world experience; this successful collaboration serves as a reminder of the collective commitment that many businesses and county leaders have toward investing in Montgomery County’s talent pipeline. By fostering strong partnerships across academic institutions, local government, and employers the region can ensure its well-prepared workforce stays ready to meet the challenges of the future.