Memphis Workforce Leadership Academy, Class of 2023
The Memphis Workforce Leadership Academy — launched in partnership by Greater Memphis Chamber and the Aspen Institute Economic Opportunities Program — brings leaders from across the Memphis workforce ecosystem together for a year-long series of retreats, workshops, and action learning projects.
The Academy provides a forum for local leaders to work collaboratively to identify local and regional systems-based challenges and create shared solutions for economic opportunity for all. Fellows work with leading practitioners throughout the country as they deepen networks; strengthen systems leadership skills; apply race, equity, and systems change frameworks to their work; and increase understanding of effective strategies and programs.
“We don’t just want to be known as the logistical hub that keeps the world moving. We want to be known as the city that moved its people to economic stability. Participation in the Memphis Workforce Leadership Academy will support the creation of a workforce ecosystem that ensures no one is left behind during this historic period of economic growth in Memphis.”
The Memphis Workforce Leadership Academy is one of eight local academies launched in 2023. Alumni of the Academy become part of the Aspen Institute’s Economic Opportunity Fellows Network, joining Fellows from fourteen previous Academies in eleven cities in the US and Canada.
About the Workforce Leadership Academies
The Aspen Institute’s Workforce Leadership Academies, part of the Economic Opportunities Program, bring together leaders across the many siloed fields of practice, organization types, and government policies that make up the field. The Academies strengthen Fellows’ capacity to develop and sustain effective workforce strategies, collaborate more deeply with employers, and expand the number and quality of leaders who advance opportunities for low-wage workers and job seekers as they meet employers’ talent development needs.
About the Economic Opportunities Program
The Aspen Institute Economic Opportunities Program advances strategies, policies, and ideas to help low- and moderate-income people thrive in a changing economy.
Join Our Mailing List
To receive occasional emails about our work — including new publications, commentary, events, fellowships, and more — join our mailing list.
Connect on Social Media
For news and updates every day, connect with us on the social media platform of your choice.
Local Leaders Advancing Workforce Development
Announcing the 2025 Workforce Leadership Academies
Shoes To Walk the Talk: Four Steps for Workforce Systems to Advance Our Own Workforce
Five Questions with a Workforce Leader: Holly Kurtz, Center for the Future of Arizona
Workforce Leadership Academy RFA Informational Webinar Recording and FAQ
