Research Matters – C2ER/LMI Institute June 4, 2026

Research Matters – C2ER/LMI Institute June 4, 2026: Big updates from C2ER + the LMI Institute this week: Memphis conference countdown, New member insights on AI in applied research, LMI Institute is now on LinkedIn, and Fresh research, data, and events across the field.

If you’re joining us in Memphis, we can’t wait to see you there! Catch up on everything happening across our community in this biweekly newsletter.

Continue Reading

How C2ER Members Are Using AI in Applied Research Today

Artificial intelligence is no longer a future consideration for applied economic and workforce development professionals. According to a recent C2ER and LMI Institute member survey, AI is already becoming part of how researchers, analysts, and practitioners conduct analysis, communicate findings, and support decision-making every day. AI is already changing applied economic and workforce development research. […]

Continue Reading

Research Matters – C2ER/LMI Institute April 23, 2026

Research Matters – C2ER/LMI Institute April 23, 2026: We’re eight weeks out from the 66th C2ER + LMI Institute Annual Conference, and Memphis is filling up fast. If you haven’t registered yet, now’s the time to grab your spot, book your room, and start planning your June experience. Plus: we’re gathering insights on how practitioners are using AI in their work. Add your voice in our quick survey. Catch the full newsletter, upcoming events, new research, and more here.

Continue Reading

Research Matters – C2ER/LMI Institute April 9, 2026

Research Matters – C2ER/LMI Institute April 9, 2026: This bi-weekly is packed: last call to join the Regional Data Connections Cohort, a newly expanded AI‑powered training to kick off your Memphis conference week, and a behind‑the‑scenes look at the Peabody Ducks tradition. Plus, fresh research, member reports, and upcoming events you won’t want to miss. Dive in and get ahead of what’s shaping workforce and economic development.

Continue Reading

The Federal Statistical System is at a Crossroads. So Are We

A new report from the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) reinforces what C2ER and LMI Institute members already know: the U.S. federal statistical system remains indispensable. The problem is that the system as it currently exists is increasingly misaligned with today’s economic realities. We strongly encourage you to read A Federal Statistical System for the Age […]

Continue Reading

Research Matters – C2ER/LMI Institute March 26, 2026

Research Matters – C2ER/LMI Institute March 26, 2026: Early Bird rates for the 66th C2ER + LMI Institute Conference are about to disappear, and this month’s feature takes you right into the heart of Memphis to show why you won’t want to miss it. We’re also opening applications for the Regional Data Connections Cohort, a new six‑month initiative helping states and regions strengthen how workforce and economic data drive policy and practice. Plus: new headlines, fresh research, data viz, and upcoming events across the network. Read the full newsletter here!

Continue Reading

Problem-Finding: The Key to Applied Economic Research Leadership in the Age of AI

|

Executive Summary Artificial intelligence is reshaping the practice of applied economic and labor market research by automating routine analytical tasks such as data cleaning, literature synthesis, descriptive statistics, and standardized reporting. As these activities become faster and easier to perform, the profession must reconsider where its greatest value lies. The role of applied researchers will […]

Continue Reading