Focus Forward conference to explore how AI, robotics are shaping future of work, education and society

The 2026 Focus Forward conference, presented by WVU, the West Virginia Public Education Collaborative, the Claude Worthington Benedum Foundation and Marshall University, is scheduled for April 1 at the Morgantown Marriott at Waterfront Place. (WVU Photo)

WHAT: West Virginia University, the West Virginia Public Education Collaborative, Claude Worthington Benedum Foundationand Marshall Universitywill host the eighth annual Focus Forwardconference.

Focus Forward: Minds and Machines will explore how evolving technologies like artificial intelligence and robotics are shaping how we learn, work and live.

Immediately following the conference, the Discover the Real West Virginia Foundation will host a reception.

WHEN: Wednesday, April 1, 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

WHERE: Morgantown Event Center, Morgantown Marriott at Waterfront Place, Two Waterfront Place, Morgantown

WHO: More than 550 business, government, education and community leaders from across West Virginia have registered to attend.

See the full schedule of speakers and event agenda.

NOTES: Members of the media who are interested in attending the conference or the reception should contact Katie Farmer at 315-256-8509 or [email protected].

Each year, Focus Forward explores emerging issues shaping West Virginia's future across the economy, education, workforce and communities. Past topics have included machine learning, big data, supercomputing assets and longevity.

The conference welcomes experts from national, state and local levels to discuss how West Virginia can best prepare to take on these issues, strengthen its workforce, support innovation, attract new businesses, and grow the economy.

-WVU-

kf/3/26/26

MEDIA CONTACT: Katie Farmer
Executive Director of Strategic Priorities
WVU Strategic Communications and Marketing
315-256-8509; [email protected]

Call 1-855-WVU-NEWS for the latest West Virginia University news and information from WVUToday.