From artificial intelligence to talent strategy, discover the trends transforming Maine’s workforce and economy.
WATERVILLE, Maine — Oct. 14, 2026 — The Central Maine Growth Council (CMGC) and Dirigo Labs are excited to announce the return of the Better Maine Conference, presented by the Maine Technology Institute, Bricks Coworking & Innovation Space, and Central Maine Motors of Waterville, in partnership with Live + Work in Maine and Main Street Skowhegan.. Building on the strong momentum and attendance of previous years, the half-day workforce development summit will return to Greene Block + Studios in downtown Waterville on Thursday, Nov. 5, 2026, bringing together employers, educators, nonprofit leaders, workforce practitioners, and business professionals from across the state.
This year’s conference will explore one of the most pressing topics facing Maine employers: artificial intelligence and its impact on the workforce. Through keynote presentations, breakout sessions, and practical discussions, attendees will gain insights into how AI is changing jobs, leadership, workplace training and talent development across the state.
The conference will open with a presentation from Mark McInerney, director of the Center for Workforce Research and Information at the Maine Department of Labor, examining data and emerging research on the potential impact of AI on jobs by occupation, skill requirements, and educational attainment in the context of broader population, demographic, and economic trends across the state.
Breakout sessions will explore topics including:
“Innovation has always changed the way we work, but successful businesses and communities are the ones that embrace change while investing in people,” said Garvan Donegan, president and CEO of the Central Maine Growth Council. “Artificial intelligence presents tremendous opportunities for businesses, workers, and educators alike. The Better Maine Conference creates a forum where leaders can explore these opportunities, share practical strategies, and ensure Maine is prepared for the future of work.”
Designed for employers, human resources professionals, workforce practitioners, educators, nonprofit leaders, and community stakeholders, the Better Maine Conference aims to provide practical tools and actionable insights that organizations can bring back to their teams and workplaces. Registration for the Better Maine Conference is now open. To register, visit BetterMaine2026.eventbrite.com.
Dirigo Labs is a Waterville, Maine-based startup accelerator and a program of the Central Maine Growth Council. With a mission to grow the greater Waterville area’s innovation economy, Dirigo Labs supports entrepreneurs across the founder journey from the idea-stage Dirigo Launch Incubator to its growth-focused accelerator programming through mentorship, structured curriculum, connections to capital and access to federal SBIR/STTR resources. The Dirigo Labs ecosystem brings together founders, mentors, investors, academic institutions and economic development partners to strengthen Maine’s entrepreneurial pipeline. To learn more, visit dirigolabs.org.
About CMGC
Central Maine Growth Council (CMGC), located in Waterville, Maine, is a public-private collaborative regional economic development partnership funded by municipalities and businesses who share a common vision of economic prosperity for our region. CMGC is committed to fostering a robust regional economy. Our belief is that the standard of living and quality of life of our citizens is best served by a vibrant, healthy economy. This is accomplished with a strong successful business community. Learn more at www.centralmaine.org
Media Contact:Amanda WrigleyInnovation and Development SpecialistCentral Maine Growth Councilamanda@centralmaine.org