June 11, 2026
New York City faces a pivotal moment for its economy, workforce, and future.
With A.I. disruption, shifting labor market demands, and growing competition for jobs and investment, workforce development can no longer be excluded from the city’s broader economic agenda. A strong economy depends on a robust talent strategy.
That is why NYCETC’s chief executive officer, Gregory J. Morris, MPA, recently spoke with The New York Times and was quoted in City & State NY’s First Read about the urgent need for a clearer economic development vision for New York City.
For NYCETC and our members, a central question remains: How can New York City grow key industries while ensuring New Yorkers are prepared for and connected to the jobs of the future?
This discussion will continue at ABNY Talks: Defining Economic Justice & the Future of Work on Thursday, June 11, from 8:30 a.m to 10:30 a.m.
The session will begin with remarks from Deputy Mayor for Economic Justice Julie Su, followed by a panel discussion featuring leaders in economic development, workforce development, labor, higher education, and technology.
Speakers include:
- Gregory J. Morris, MPA, Chief Executive Officer, New York City Employment and Training Coalition
- Jeanny Pak, Interim President & Chief Executive Officer, NYC Economic Development Corporation
- Lauren Andersen, Vice Chancellor for Career Engagement & Industry Partnerships, CUNY
- Jess Carrano, Northeast State and Local Government Affairs, Anthropic
- Marco A. Carrión, President, Consortium for Worker Education
- Gary LaBarbera, President, Building & Construction Trades Council of Greater New York
The panel will explore the practical meaning of economic justice and discuss how New York City can align industry growth, public investment, education, training, and worker opportunities to build a more competitive and inclusive economy.
This event offers the workforce development community an opportunity to ensure that talent, access, and economic mobility remain central to the city’s economic strategy.
New York City Employment and Training Coalition, Anthropic, Columbia University, and New York City Economic Development Corporation are sponsors of the program.