GRAND BALLROOM

Join Tennessee's 50th Governor, Bill Lee, as he provides an update on the state of Tennessee and hear from special guest Tony Vitello, Head Baseball Coach of the Tennessee Volunteers. From landing new jobs and investment to winning national championships, this combo is sure to give you the tools you need to level up your game.

TRACK 1  |  WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT BY TDLWD  |  BREAKOUT ROOM 1

The AI IQ of Tennessee's Workforce

Dr. Lynne E. Parker is one of the nation's foremost experts on Artificial Intelligence. She has studied and worked in AI for many years, leading AI policy decisions for the White House, and most recently at the UT Knoxville AI Initiative. Dr. Parker will provide insight into this new technological era for business, how it can benefit employers across Tennessee and best practices for businesses of any size to keep pace during this evolution.

TRACK 2  |  PROJECT LIFECYCLE  |  BREAKOUT ROOM 2

The Prep Playbook

This session uncovers the strategic groundwork that leads to successful outcomes in economic development. From site readiness to workforce programs and essential infrastructure, learn how key investments shape future growth. Panelists will share real-world examples of how they're positioning their regions for economic expansion and greater opportunity.

TRACK 3  |  LOOKING TO THE FUTURE  |  BREAKOUT ROOM 3

Innovation Giants in TN

Tennessee is home to some of the nation's most advanced research and innovation hubs. In this session, explore the groundbreaking work being done at Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Arnold Engineering Development Complex and the University of Tennessee Space Institute. These institutions are driving technological advancements, attracting top-tier talent and fueling the growth of high-tech industries across the state and country.

TRACK 1  |  workforce development by TDLWD  |  Breakout room 1

Empower TN: Bridging Talent & Opportunity

A cutting-edge workforce development program can take challenging worker supply issues and turn them into a best practice for other industries. This session will highlight several programs across Tennessee that seamlessly integrate state services while streamlining the approach to workforce development. It will also provide a better understanding of Tennessee's dynamic career and technical education opportunities statewide and youth employment.

TRACK 2  |  Project Lifecycle  |  Breakout room 2

Sealing the Deal

Discover what it takes to secure large-scale economic development projects that can transform a community. This session breaks down Knoxville's successful efforts in attracting the Greenheck Group, resulting in 440 jobs and a $300 million investment. Learn the behind-the-scenes strategies that led to this win, from introductions to the closing of the deal.

TRACK 3  |  Looking to the Future  |  Breakout room 3

Leveraging Music to Enhance Quality of Life

Tennessee's vibrant music industry is more than just a cultural asset — it's a powerful tool for economic growth and community development. In this session, explore how the intersection of economic development and tourism can help communities tap into Tennessee's rich musical heritage to improve livability and drive growth. Music can be a strategic asset in building thriving places across our state, and this session will show you how.

Shuttles will begin departing the Convention Center at 4:30 PM. They will return guests to host hotels and convention center with last departure at 8:00 PM.

UT Research Park at Cherokee farm  |  2641 osprey vista way

Ditch the business attire and pull out your best team apparel because this year's conference is not all business. After day one wraps, join us for a tailgate-themed reception hosted by the University of Tennessee-Knoxville with special remarks from ESPN's Marty Smith.