Research Matters – C2ER/LMI Institute February 26, 2026

Research Matters - Bi-Weekly Update
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February 26, 2026
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Feature
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Memphis Moment #1:

The Soundtrack of the City
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Memphis doesn’t just have music, it is music. From the birthplace of rock ’n’ roll to the home of the blues, the city hums with rhythm day and night. Whether you wander down Beale Street or slip into a hidden club after sessions, you’ll find live performances that remind you why Memphis shaped American culture.

Ready to experience Memphis for yourself? Register now and join us at The Peabody for the C2ER + LMI Institute Annual Conference. Where we blend professional growth with the spirit of the city.
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Early bird rates end April 1, 2026

(no foolin’)
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Connecting Research to Practice: Why This Training Matters Now
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Organizations across industries are grappling with how to keep employees engaged, confident, and productive as AI tools rapidly reshape daily work. This NJIT article, Strategies for Employee Engagement During AI Adoption, highlights a central truth: successful AI integration depends on early exposure, hands‑on learning, and clear communication that empowers employees rather than overwhelms them. The authors emphasize that teams need structured training, opportunities to experiment, and guidance on responsible use if they are to embrace AI with confidence instead of hesitation.
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The Accelerated Talent Transformation via AI‑Assisted Python Coding training directly puts these recommendations into action. This workshop gives participants practical experience using AI tools to generate, refine, and evaluate Python code, skills that translate immediately into more efficient workflows, stronger analytical capacity, and greater comfort with emerging technologies. Participants learn not only how to use AI effectively, but also how to assess its limitations, avoid common pitfalls, and integrate it responsibly into their day‑to‑day work.
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Employees thrive when they understand AI, have space to practice with it, and can see how it elevates rather than replaces their expertise. This workshop provides structured, supportive, and grounded in real-world applications that workforce and economic development professionals can bring back to their organizations.
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Registration is now open for Accelerated Talent Transformation via AI‑Assisted Python Coding held June 16, 2026, in Memphis.

Seats are limited, and early bird pricing is available through April 1.

Secure your spot today and equip your team with the skills and confidence they need to lead in an AI‑enabled future.
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News & Reports
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Headlines

Reports – From Our Members

Reports – Non-members
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Have a report you’d like to share?
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ICYMI
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Data Visualization
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Careers
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Have an open position that might be of interest to C2ER members?

Let us post your job listing!
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Send the position title, description, and any other relevant information to Jennifer Gual.

Jobs are typically posted within 1 business day and postings remain active for 45 days if no closing date is specified.
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Our Events
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LMI Institute – Data User Roundtable: Modernizing State LMI

March 19, 2026

2:00 PM – 3:00 PM ET
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C2ER/LMI Institute Training Class

Accelerated Talent Transformation via AI-assisted Python Coding

June 16, 2026

Memphis, TN
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C2ER/LMI Institute Training Class

Proving and Sharing Your Impact: Practical Training for Practitioners

June 16, 2026

Memphis, TN
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2026 C2ER + LMI Institute Annual Conference

June 17 – 19, 2026

Memphis, TN
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eLearning Courses
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Foundations of Economic Development Research I: Introduction to Data Sources

Any Place, Any Time
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Foundations of Economic Development Research II: Introduction to Regional Analysis Methods

Any Place, Any Time
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Basic LMI Analyst eLearning

Any Place, Any Time
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Industry Events
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Brookings Webcast: Why Are Electricity Prices Rising in the US and What Can Be Done About It?

March 2, 2026

2:00 PM – 3:30 PM ET
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2026 NADO & DDAA Washington Conference

March 8 – 11, 2026

Arlington, VA
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2026 SelectUSA Investment Summit

May 3 – 6, 2026

National Harbor, MD
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Local Employment Dynamics (LED) Partnership Hybrid Workshop

May 12 – 13, 2026

Save The Date

If you have any questions,

please contact ces.local.employment.

dynamics@census.gov or call 301-763-INFO (4636)

or 800-923-8282
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Pacific Northwest Regional Economic Conference

May 19 – 21, 2026

Portland, OR
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