Youth Practitioners Conference - Three Days in Saratoga Springs!

The 2025 NYATEP Youth Practitioners Conference, held from March 10-12 at the Holiday Inn in Saratoga Springs, New York, brought together workforce professionals dedicated to empowering young adults. This annual event serves as a platform for sharing best practices, discussing challenges, and fostering collaborations aimed at enhancing youth employment and development across the state.

Conference Highlights:

• Plenary Sessions: The conference featured dynamic plenary sessions that tackled critical issues facing today's workforce professionals. The conference kicked off with panelists Michele Armani (ETS Jobs), Bailey Gardner (Schenectady County Connects), Jennifer Bashant (Early Care & Learning Council), and Daniel Bonnet (Carver Center) diving into a conversation led by NYATEP's Joelle Monaco on the intersection of youth mental health and employment. On Tuesday, Keynote speaker Natalie Gillard of FACTUALITY led an impressive and reflective session, where attendees played a board game tackling real life issues. On Wednesday, Amy Brombos (Amy Brombos Consulting) capped the conference off with a session on innovative approaches to storytelling and data analysis.

• Engaging Workshops: Attendees participated in diverse sessions with speakers from all over the state, covering topics such as gamification strategies, supporting neurodivergent youth in the workplace, and bridging barriers through technology. These workshops provided practical tools and insights for professionals to implement in their programs!

• Interactive Events: The conference featured opportunities for professionals to connect, share experiences, and build partnerships. Notably, the Ben & Jerry's Ice Cream Social Hour, offered a relaxed setting for attendees to network and unwind. Attendees went to The Bunker for a fun night of indoor golf, darts, snacks, and drinks. Thank you to the New York Center for Interpersonal Development (NYCID) for sponsoring the professional headshot booth, giving all attendees a chance to get a new headshot taken!

• Cultural and Educational Tour: On March 11th, participants joined the Saratoga Racetrack and History Tour, exploring the rich history of Saratoga Springs and gaining insights into local culture and heritage.

The event was made possible through the generous support of sponsors, with the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) serving as the Presenting Sponsor.

Their commitment, along with that of other sponsors, ensured the conference's success and its continued impact on youth workforce development.

As we reflect on the outcomes of the conference, the NYATEP remains committed to supporting professionals dedicated to youth development. The insights and connections forged during this event are vital as we continue to advocate for and implement policies and programs that empower the next generation of workers.