Data Walk 2026: Celebrating 30 Years of Impact
On October 30, Durham Workforce Authority marked a milestone with Data Walk 2026: Labour Market Insights & Anniversary Celebration. Bringing together our annual exploration of Durham’s workforce with our 30th anniversary, the event offered an opportunity to reflect on three decades of research and community partnerships while looking ahead to the region’s future.
At the heart of the Data Walk was a chance to explore local labour market information in an accessible way. Through 30 posters and accompanying discussions, participants could examine trends, ask questions and consider what the data means for their work and communities.
This year’s materials explored six economic clusters: advanced manufacturing; agriculture; arts, culture and creative industries; defence; future energy; and healthcare. Alongside these sectors, the posters examined skilled trades, education, employer perspectives and the services that support Durham’s economy. Jobs First Durham data added a view of recruitment activity, including the occupations employers were advertising and the skills they were seeking.
The information offered a closer look at the people and connections behind each sector. In advanced manufacturing, for example, technical expertise sits alongside the need for communication, leadership and problem-solving. Agriculture reaches beyond the farm into processing, distribution and supporting services. Arts and culture contribute to employment and business activity while also strengthening community connection and quality of life.
These connections are an important part of understanding Durham’s workforce. Looking at industries together helps us consider how skills transfer between occupations, how education and training support career pathways, and how employers and community partners can respond to changing needs.
The anniversary celebration provided an opportunity to recognize the people who have supported this work since 1996. Over 30 years, board members, staff, employers, educators, community organizations and residents have contributed their knowledge, experience and commitment to DWA’s work. Our anniversary theme, **“Celebrating 30 Years of Impact,”** recognizes that shared contribution.
Combining the Data Walk with this milestone was a fitting way to acknowledge our history while continuing the work that brings us together: understanding local workforce needs and making labour market information useful to the people who rely on it.
Thank you to everyone who joined us and to those who contributed to the event and its materials. As we enter our next chapter, we look forward to continuing to learn, share and work alongside our partners across Durham Region.
If you missed the event, you can find the 2026 Data Walk package here. It includes the data posters and speaker notes.