Featured May 28, 2024 A look back at the Partnership’s inaugural conference for federal human capital professionals Back to Blog Shape the future of government human capital management at the 2025 GovHR Conference Date August 19, 2025 Authors Mercedes Raphael Tags Workforce The Partnership for Public Service is hosting the 2025 GovHR Conference on Sept. 16–18, 2025, in Washington, D.C, and virtually. The public sector workforce is at a pivotal moment—and government human capital leaders are being asked to rise to the occasion. This September, the GovHR Conference (formerly the Federal Human Capital Conference) returns as the premier event for those reimagining what the HR profession can and should look like in government today. Federal, state and local government human capital professionals will join us from Sept. 16–18, 2025 for three days of insight, inspiration and actionable strategies for public sector practitioners and changemakers. With sessions ranging from foundational practices to cutting-edge innovation, the 2025 GovHR Conference will equip participants to lead with purpose, navigate complexity and strengthen their agencies’ workforce. Building on our success In 2024 the Partnership hosted our first human capital conference in response to high demand from federal human capital leaders. More than 370 public sector human capital professionals from across 75 agencies came together for in-person and virtual collaboration and learning. 98% in-person and 100% virtual respondents indicated they would attend again. The GovHR Conference is a space to build momentum for a better future in public service. Participants will share lessons, tackle shared challenges and explore how policy and culture can work hand in hand to create lasting impact. Featured speakers GovHR will feature federal, state and local government leaders, and experts from industries that support the public sector. We are excited to welcome the new Office of Personnel Management Director Scott Kupor who will share his vision for OPM and the federal workforce. Kentucky Personnel Cabinet Secretary Mary Elizabeth Bailey will explore how innovative programs can become powerful tools for recruitment and retention and discuss how the state has reimagined performance management. Former Centers for Disease Control Chief Operating Officer Robin Bailey will share insights from his more than 30 years of service in various senior level government positions. For the latest speaker list, see our agenda. Conference tracks GovHR is organized into three thematic tracks to tailor attendees’ experience. They may stay within one track or mix and match for practical takeaways and examples from public sector leaders. Back to Basics: Strengthen the foundations of effective government HR This track features proven tools and strategies for improving hiring, performance and employee engagement—no matter your agency size or resources. Featured sessions: Performance Management That Drives Growth Federal and state HR leaders will share how they have reimagined performance management to align employee goals with mission outcomes through meaningful feedback. Crafting Accurate Job Descriptions and Skills Assessments Panelists who lead public sector workforce innovation efforts will explore the promise and practice of skills-based hiring in government. Models for Enhancing the Internal Customer Experience Panelists will share how they have reimagined HR operations by listening to stakeholders, streamlining workflows and incorporating customer feedback to transform HR into a trusted partner. Tech and Data: Unlock the potential of data and technology to modernize your HR operations Whether you’re experimenting with AI or just starting to use workforce analytics, this track will help you build your confidence and capacity. Featured sessions: Demystifying Hiring Pipeline Data Learn how data can better inform hiring decisions and improve hiring processes. Strategies for Building a Data-Ready Workforce Learn how HR leaders can improve conversations around data. Preparing Your Workforce to Adopt AI Move beyond the fundamentals to discuss real world implementation of AI as governments modernize their workforce and prepare to use AI in their work. Workforce Effectiveness: Build a more engaged, mission-aligned and future-ready workforce This track emphasizes long-term strategy and innovations to help public servants thrive. Featured sessions: From Inside Out: Bridging EX and CX Strategies Explore the mutually reinforcing relationship between employee experience and customer experience, focusing on actionable strategies that align EX and CX initiatives. Engaging with Front-Line Workers to Improve Government Outcomes Learn best practices for driving change through incorporating the perspectives of front-line workers. Recognition That Doesn’t Miss the Point: The Why and the How of Meaningful Recognition in Government Workplaces Explore what meaningful employee recognition looks like and learn from cautionary tales of missed opportunities. Participate in the 2025 GovHR Conference Participants can join this year’s conference either in-person at the Partnership for Public Service in Washington, D.C., or virtually. For more information, including the full agenda and registration, visit the GovHR event page. Mercedes Raphael is a manager of workforce programs at the Partnership for Public Service.
