Building the future workforce for Herefordshire
The future of Herefordshire's workforce starts here.
- Date: Monday 5 October 2026
- Time: 9am - 2.30pm
- Location: Plough Lane, Hereford, HR4 0LE
- Hosted by: Herefordshire Growth Hub
See the full programme and register for the conference
How do we build the workforce Herefordshire will need for the future?
The way we work is changing. Artificial intelligence and new technology are creating opportunities, workforce expectations are evolving, and businesses are facing ongoing challenges around recruitment, retention and skills.
The Herefordshire Skills Conference 2026 brings businesses, employers, education and skills partners together to explore these challenges – and, importantly, to help shape what happens next.
Why attend?
This is an opportunity to:
- Hear from leading voices on the future of work, leadership, AI and business growth
- Explore the skills and workforce challenges facing Herefordshire businesses
- Share your experiences and priorities with other employers and partners
- Take part in interactive discussions and live polling
- Contribute to Business Insight Zones focused on the issues that matter to your organisation
- Help shape the development of Herefordshire's Employment and Skills Strategy
Your experience and views will help inform the conversation about the future of Herefordshire's workforce.
What will we explore?
The conference will look at some of the biggest issues facing employers and the workforce, including:
AI and technology
How is AI changing the workplace, and how can businesses make the most of new technology to support productivity and growth?
Skills and talent
How do we develop, attract and retain the skills that Herefordshire businesses need?
Leadership
What will effective leadership look like in a changing workplace, and how can organisations build resilience and adapt to change?
Inclusive growth
How can businesses create workplaces that attract and retain a wider range of talent while supporting wellbeing and participation?
Business Insight Zones
The conference will include four interactive Business Insight Zones, giving delegates the chance to explore key issues and share their experience.
Health and wellbeing
Exploring how employers can support a healthy, resilient and productive workforce.
Workforce development planning
Looking at how businesses can identify future skills needs and plan for them.
AI for business growth
Exploring the opportunities for businesses to use AI and digital technology to improve productivity and growth.
Creating inclusive workspaces
Considering how inclusive, flexible and supportive workplaces can help businesses attract and retain talent.
Delegates can choose up to two zones to attend when registering.
The insight from these sessions will feed into the afternoon panel discussion and help inform future skills activity in Herefordshire.
Who should attend?
The conference is aimed primarily at Herefordshire businesses and employers, particularly business leaders and those responsible for people, workforce and skills development.
It will also be relevant to:
- Education and training providers
- Employment and skills organisations
- Business networks and representative organisations
- Partners working to support Herefordshire's economy and workforce
Places are limited, so early registration is recommended.
Help shape the future workforce
The future of Herefordshire's workforce will be shaped by the decisions we make today.
Come along, share your experience and help build the workforce Herefordshire businesses will need for the future.