A panel and group discussion “Workforce Preparedness for a Strong Economy” will be held from 7:30-9 a.m. on Thursday, April 4 at the South Bellevue Community Center.

The topic will focus on the region’s short supply of qualified workforce talent that is the leading challenge to our region’s continued economic success, prosperity and quality of life. The event’s sponsors are members of Leadership Eastside’s class of 2014 in conjunction with Prosperity Partnership of Puget Sound Regional Council.

The community center is located at 14509 SE Newport Way.

Speakers include Jason Thibedeau of Prosperity Partnership, Jim Hebert of Hebert Research, Kevin Wang of Microsoft, and Mike Maryanski, Superintendent of the Tahoma School District. Small group discussions will attempt to identify solutions to the eastside workforce skills-gap and preparedness.

Attendees are encouraged to RSVP online. Doors open at 7 a.m., and there is no cost for admission.

For more information, contact Mike Fisher at mikefisher@juno.com, or at 425-223-9107.