On October 20, 2025, Kaptivate hosted the second AI & Workforce Impact event, where leaders from business, education, government, and social impact sectors discussed best practices and new ideas for using AI in the workforce and developing talent.
Event Videos
Introductions
GMU Welcome
Current Economic Outlook
GO Virginia Region 7 Update
Higher Education Solutions
Local Solutions
Alex Orfinger
Gig Economy
Discussion Portion
Key Takeaways & Highlights
Collaboration Across Sectors and Jurisdictions Is Essential
The most consistent message, echoed across every panel, was that no one can do this alone. Effective AI readiness and workforce transformation requires coordination between education, employers, and government throughout the DMV region. Breaking down silos and building shared infrastructure will ensure that innovation benefits the entire regional economy.
The Gig Economy and Flexible Work Models Are Here to Stay
In the face of layoffs across the region, largely driven by a reduction in the federal workforce, new models for employment must be explored. Flexible, project-based work is rapidly reshaping how organizations operate. Participants noted that the gig economy can strengthen regional resilience if supported by systems that provide stability, such as portable benefits, verified credentials, and talent marketplaces that connect skilled workers to opportunity.
Human Skills Are the New Power Skills
Adaptability, critical thinking, teamwork, and ethics are now the capabilities that matter most in an AI-driven world. These human traits, what one speaker called “original intelligence”, will distinguish workers and leaders as automation transforms traditional job structures.
What Our Participants Had to Say
"AI and the workforce aren't just technology issues; they're also about talent in our community..." - Yelena VaynBerg, BuildWithin
"We need to preserve what makes us human - the most important skills (e.g., critical thinking, ethics, innovation)..." - Jenn Ji, IBM
"I was inspired by words from Alex Orfinger how people come to live and work in DC to "make a difference" and are purpose driven." - Lisa Shapiro, GO Northern Virginia Region 7
"Every project or program introduces action oriented people I wish I knew years earlier." - Jim Egenrieder, Virginia Tech
"One of the most refreshing forum formats I've seen lately; industry thinkers, initiators, and doers under one roof discussing real-world challenges, not just buzzwords." - Kabeelan Athirathinam, MBA Candidate, George Washington University
"I usually decline public engagements, but this reminded me that some conversations are worth showing up for." - Mike Tadesse, Professor of Artificial Intelligence in Marketing and Consumer Neuroscience, George Washington University
"This will without a doubt transform how K-12 and higher education prepare young adults for the workforce." - Jerome Tenille, Navy Federal Credit Union
"Flexibility does not have to mean fragility." - Kate Tulenko, Corvus Health
"Thank you Kaptivate for jam-packed series of conversation about AI and WorkforceDevelopment" - Thomas Showalter, Showalter Strategies
Regional resource to assist federal employees and contractors transitioning out of federal service, offering job search guidance, workshops, and support services.
County-level support program providing employment assistance, benefits, and financial resources for federal employees and contractors affected by workforce transitions.
State-level resource connecting Virginia residents to job search, unemployment benefits, and workforce training programs for those impacted by federal employment shifts.
A regional economic plan outlining strategies to expand and diversify Northern Virginia’s economy across sectors like AI, cybersecurity, and advanced manufacturing.
A regional initiative connecting job seekers and employers across the DC/MD/VA area, focusing on reskilling and workforce mobility for transitioning professionals.
Regional economic publication by George Mason University’s Schar School providing insights on workforce trends, job growth, and economic indicators in the DMV region.
Free, instructor-led courses on cloud computing and AI fundamentals offered in Arlington, VA; designed for beginners and those seeking career transitions into tech.
Free, globally recognized e-learning platform offering structured training in IT, cybersecurity, AI, and digital literacy to help learners develop job-ready tech skills.
Global platform offering 30+ free self-paced courses in entrepreneurship, business communication, and digital skills, complete with online certificates.
Free training platform offering foundational to advanced courses in AI, data science, and cloud computing, designed for individuals seeking to enter or grow in tech fields.
Northern Virginia Community College’s initiative offering programs, certifications, and partnerships that prepare local workers for high-demand industries.
Collection of free online courses from Stanford University covering artificial intelligence, data science, and related technology topics.
What's next in the AI & Workforce Impact Event Series...
Our final session, scheduled for January 27, 2026, will focus on developing actionable steps for the region to effectively navigate the workforce transformations ahead.
Be in touch to learn more.
About Kaptivate
Kaptivate helps organizations give voice to their vision of the future. We also help organizations act on it. That includes:
Helping social impact leaders make the internal argument for why this issue should be part of your core social impact agenda.
Crafting data narratives that bring national stakes into a regional focus.
Launching prize competitions that mobilize innovation and investment in scalable solutions.
And building lasting communities of action to partner, test, and implement real solutions.
