Five area academic leaders will headline the West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce August luncheon focused on education’s role in preparing future workforce. According to a news release, the panel will include:

• Alejandro Hernandez – dean of the Zimpleman College of Business at Drake University
• Angela Walker Franklin – president of Des Moines University
• Dr. Adreain Henry – president of Mercy College of Health Sciences
• David Spalding – Raisbeck Endowed Dean of the Iowa State Ivy College of Business
• Rob Denson – president of the Des Moines Area Community College

The Aug. 15 panel discussion at the Rewind in West Des Moines will explore different viewpoints on the latest educational strategies and technologies used by top institutions to prepare students for the future workforce by understanding in-demand skills and how education is evolving to meet these needs, the release said. Attendees can expect to study successful education-industry partnerships, discover innovative programs in Iowa and stay ahead of education and workforce trends to position their organization for success. “Building a world-class talent pool in Iowa is not just an ambition but a necessity,” Katherine Harrington, president and CEO of the West Des Moines Chamber, said in the release. “Our collaboration with educational institutions and industry leaders will pave the way for a future-ready workforce, fostering innovation and economic growth in our community.” Registration for the event closes at noon Aug. 12.