NRBP to Host Fall 'Eye Opener'

PRESS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 30, 2026
Media Contact:
Newark Regional Business Partnership
[email protected]

NRBP to Host Fall 'Eye Opener' 
Program on
Scaling Newark's Talent Pipeline at Essex County College

NEWARK, NJ — September 8, 2026 -- The Newark Regional Business Partnership (NRBP) will host its fall Eye Opener program, titled "Scaling Newark's Talent Pipeline," on Thursday, October 8, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Essex County College in Newark, New Jersey.

The Eye Opener Program brings together employers, anchor institutions, higher education, and workforce development leaders for a timely conversation on how Greater Newark can hire, grow, and retain its workforce. With the cost of living continuing to rise, employers are under growing pressure to think strategically about attracting and keeping talent, making practical, cross-sector partnerships more critical than ever. The morning will also provide attendees with an excellent opportunity to network and build new relationships. This is proudly supported by host sponsor Essex County College and event sponsor Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of NJ.

Event Highlights Include:

• Fireside Chat – "Powering Newark's Workforce: Economic Realities & Regional Growth": Led by Anibal Ramos, Jr., Director of the Essex County Department of Citizen Services and head of the Department of Economic Development, Training & Employment, this discussion features Aisha Glover (Global Head of Urban Innovation, Audible) and Sara Peña (Director of External Affairs, PSEG). The conversation will explore how these two major anchor institutions approach job creation differently to drive the city's economic growth.
• Employer Panel – "The Talent Gap: What Are You Really Looking For?": Moderated by Dr. Elvy M. Vieira, Dean of Community, Continuing Education and Workforce Development at Essex County College, this panel investigates employer expectations, skills gaps, and alignment strategies between workforce providers and industry needs. Confirmed panelists include Mitch Cahn (President, Unionwear), Karen Gaylord (Executive Director, Newark Workforce Development Board), and Vineet Wadhwa (Sr. Director of Talent Acquisition, Reworld), alongside Reywon McCarthy (VP of Human Resources) and Chiquita Monal (Director of Human Resources, RWJBarnabasHealth Newark Beth Israel Medical Center and Children’s Hospital of NJ).

Registration Information:
Business leaders, human resources professionals, workforce developers, and community stakeholders are encouraged to attend. Admission is free for all NRBP members, but registration is required. To secure your spot and learn more about other ticket options, visit NRBP’s website at https://web.newarkrbp.org/events/NRBP-Eye-Opener-Scaling-Newarks-Talent-Pipeline-5882/details. 

About the Newark Regional Business Partnership
As the premier chamber of commerce serving the Greater Newark region, the Newark Regional Business Partnership (NRBP) creates opportunities for businesses of all sizes, nonprofits, and community leaders to connect, expand their networks, strengthen their organizations, and contribute to a vibrant and competitive Greater Newark economic ecosystem. Through convenings, programs, and strategic partnerships, NRBP works to support business growth and advance Newark’s economic vitality. For more information about NRBP, visit www.newarkrbp.org.