The PrepWork Consortium will host “Connecting Earning and Learning: A Workforce Summit” from 7:30-11:30 a.m. Friday, May 9 at the Local 26 Pipefitters, 780 Chrysler Drive in Burlington. The event is an opportunity for business representatives and educators to be part of creating innovative solutions to prepare the future work force.

Cost is $20 and includes breakfast.

The event will feature industry and education leaders who will share information about program successes. Highlighted programs include: Sedro-Woolley School District’s dropout prevention intervention, Mount Vernon Chamber of Commerce Partnership with Education, Project ALERT, PrepWork student business projects and manufacturing tech achievement certificates.

In addition, the summit will feature new and upcoming programs including: Whatcom Construction Careers Academy, Skagit Valley Technical Skills Center and video projects highlighting employment benefits for students in areas of workforce needs. Partnership table discussions will address ways business and schools can work together to provide success for high school students and employers.

The event is sponsored by the PrepWork Consortium, Skagit Valley College, Northwest Workforce Development Council, Economic Development Association of Skagit County, Island County Economic Development Council, Northwest Center of Excellence for Marine Manufacturing and many local employment organizations.

For more information and to register, contact Kim Davis at or (360) 416-6631. Send checks to PrepWork Consortium, 204 W. Montgomery, Mount Vernon, WA 98273.