Policy Matters Summit: Building Washington's Talent Advantage

Washington's future competitiveness depends on its ability to develop, attract, retain, and adapt talent. Yet leaders often lack a shared definition of success or agreement on how it should be measured. On November 17th, the Technology Alliance will convene business, education, policy, and civic leaders for the 2026 Policy Matters Summit to explore one central question: How should Washington define, measure, and build its talent advantage? The day will move from shared understanding, to evidence, to policy choices. Together, participants will examine what winning looks like for Washington, what the data tells us about the state's progress, and which decisions will shape our ability to compete in the decade ahead. Through conversations on outcomes, accountability, economic mobility, talent development, and long-term prosperity, the summit will challenge attendees to think beyond programs and investments and focus instead on the results Washington hopes to achieve. Who Should Attend Policy Matters is designed for leaders shaping Washington's future, including: Business and industry executives Legislators and policy leaders Higher education and K–12 leaders Workforce and economic development leaders Together, these voices will explore what it takes to build a stronger talent advantage and a more competitive Washington. AGENDA: 8:30 AM | Breakfast & Networking 9:00 AM | Welcome & Framing 9:15 AM | Workforce 101: What Do We Mean by a Skilled & Adaptable Workforce? 10:00 AM | Panel 1: What Does Winning Look Like? 10:45 AM | Break 11:00 AM | Panel 2: What Does the Evidence Tell Us? 12:00 PM | Lunch & Networking 1:00 PM | Panel 3: What Would It Take to Grow Our Own? 1:45 PM | Panel 4: What Choices Are We Avoiding? 2:45 PM | Looking Ahead: Building Washington's Talent Advantage 3:00 PM | Adjourn