The Talent Exchange: What the Numbers Say 

Date: September 9, 2025 Location: McKinsey & Co Time: 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM 

The first event in The Talent Exchange series sets the stage with a clear-eyed look at Washington’s talent pipeline. This session brings HR leaders, recruiters, educators, and policymakers together to explore statewide data on skills, strengths, and gaps. 

Through a featured data presentation and interactive discussion, participants will gain a grounded understanding of where Washington’s workforce stands today—and what those trends mean for employers, postsecondary institutions, and the state’s economic future. 

Agenda

11:30am to 11:55am – Lunch and Networking 

11:55am to 12:30 pm – Presentation

12:30 pm to 1 pm - Audience Q&A 

Speakers

Jake Bryant, McKinsey

Building on insights from the first Talent Exchange session “What the Numbers Say”, this event shifts the focus to the starting point of the workforce pipeline: early-career roles. Economic shifts, recent layoffs, and the rise of generative AI have reshaped how employers think about entry-level hiring—and what it takes to prepare the next generation of talent. 

Through a panel discussion and interactive dialogue, participants will explore how companies are adapting, what barriers prevent more inclusive early-career hiring, and how education and training systems can better align with employer needs. Together, we’ll examine what “entry-level” really means today—and what it will mean in the years ahead. 

Agenda

11:30am to 11:55am – Lunch and Networking 

11:55am to 12:30 pm – Panel

12:30 pm to 1 pm - Audience Q&A

The culminating summit brings together employers, educators, and policymakers to turn insights into action. This full-day program focuses on translating lessons from the series into concrete strategies.

Participants will leave with clear calls to action to build inclusive, connected, and future-ready talent pathways across Washington.