STATE OF THE WORKER 2026!

ABout the 2026
state of the worker summit

The State of the Worker Summit 2026 will examine how technology, innovation, and economic change are transforming industries, careers, and opportunities across the state.

The State of the Worker Summit is California’s premier annual convening examining the forces shaping the state’s workforce and economic future. Leaders from government, labor, business, academia, philanthropy, and communities across California will gather for timely conversations on the future of work.

Our 2026 Summit will consider how California can embrace innovation while supporting workers, strengthening communities, and expanding access to quality jobs.

Join us for a dynamic day of thoughtful discussion, fresh perspectives, and meaningful connections.

The State of the Worker Summit is conceived and produced by SAFER (Somos Accelerator for Economic Resilience), the nonprofit affiliate of Somos Group. SAFER partners with public and private stakeholders to build community resilience, promote equitable economic development, and accelerate shared prosperity across California.

Keynote Speaker

Staying Ahead of the Technological Innovations Revolutionizing American Industries. 

Dr. Anthony Orlando, Associate Professor of Finance, Real Estate, and Law at Cal Poly Pomona

Panel 1

A Look Ahead:
Technological Developments That Will Drive the Economy and the Workforce 

Matt Peterson, President and CEO of LACI

Jesse Melgar, Previous Director of the Center of Tomorrow

Moderator: Ramneek Saini, Chief Strategy Officer at Somos Group

Panel 2

The Importance of Arts, Culture and Media Work in a Technology-Driven Economy 

Evonne Gallardo, Artist Advocate

Claudia Gutierrez, General Counsel at LACMA

Phillip Albert, COO of SPARC
Moderator: Jose Richard 

Panel 3

Next Generation Workforce: Preparing the Next Generation for a World of Transformed by AI, Mechanization and Workplace Innovation

Dr. Salvatrice Cummo, VP of Economic and Workforce Development at Pasadena City College

Michele Siqueiros, CEO, The LA Local
Moderator: Kira Conlon, Principal and Co-Founder at Somos Group