Laois Chamber Alliance, in partnership with ReSHAPE, Midlands Regional Skills Forum and Laois County Council, has opened bookings for “The Future of Work – Shaping a Future Ready Workforce for a Thriving Laois”, a practical, business-focused breakfast briefing and skills workshop designed to help employers attract talent, build skills and stay competitive as AI and new ways of working reshape the labour market. The event will now take place on Friday, 17th April 2026, from 8:30am to 12:30pm, at the Midlands Park Hotel, Portlaoise, Co. Laois.
Aimed at business owners, senior leaders, HR managers and team leads across the county, the event will focus on the real challenges facing employers, including recruitment and retention pressures, rapid digital change, and the need to build more resilient, future-ready teams. The morning will provide clear, practical takeaways on workforce planning, skills development, productivity and wellbeing in modern workplaces.
Attendees will hear from leading futurist Peter Cosgrove of Futurewise, who will explore the practical realities facing employers, including how organisations can use AI as a strategic advantage, what upskilling and reskilling look like in real terms, and how businesses can respond to emerging workplace challenges such as digital overload and burnout.
The programme will also include expert input and interactive elements focused on the tools and supports available to help businesses map skills needs, strengthen talent pipelines and unlock productivity. The event page describes the session as a practical first step in positioning Laois as a skilled workforce hub and helping employers plan for the changes ahead.
Speaking about the event, Jackie Carroll, CEO of Laois Chamber Alliance, said:
“This is a must-attend morning for any business that wants to stay ahead. Our focus is simple: to give Laois employers practical guidance, real tools and direct access to the supports that can help them build resilient teams, attract talent and grow with confidence. As the world of work continues to evolve, businesses need clear, relevant and actionable support — and that is exactly what this event is designed to provide.”
She added:
“Laois has ambitious businesses, strong regional partnerships and real potential to lead in how we prepare for the future of work. By bringing employers, skills providers and public sector partners together in one room, we can ensure that businesses across the county are better equipped to respond to change, invest in people and compete strongly into the future. Places are limited, so we are encouraging early booking.”
John Costello, Midlands Regional Skills Forum Manager, commented:
“Across the Midlands, we are seeing a growing need for businesses to take a more structured approach to workforce planning. By investing in skills development now – particularly in digital and transferable skills – employers can build stronger, more agile teams and secure long-term success for their organisations and the wider region.”
The event forms part of a wider collaboration to strengthen skills and employment pathways across the region. ReSHAPE is co-funded by the Government of Ireland and the European Union through the EU Just Transition Fund Programme 2021–2027.
RSVP via the Laois Chamber Alliance website. Attendance is free.
