Public Health in the Rockies 2026

Rural public health systems across Colorado continue to navigate complex workforce challenges related to recruitment, retention, infrastructure, training capacity, and evolving community health needs. At the same time, rural communities, public health agencies, academic institutions, and community partners are developing innovative and relationship-centered approaches to strengthen workforce pathways and support sustainable public health capacity.

This showcase session will provide an overview of emerging insights and practice-informed lessons related to rural public health workforce development in Colorado from the perspective of academic and community partnership efforts. Drawing from ongoing collaborations involving workforce development initiatives, rural public health partnerships, student training programs, academic health department relationships, and statewide conversations with rural practitioners and leaders, presenters will highlight themes that are shaping current workforce needs and opportunities across Colorado’s rural public health landscape.

The session will explore topics such as workforce recruitment and retention, student development, training and mentorship needs, cross-sector collaboration, infrastructure challenges, rural practice-based learning opportunities, and the importance of relationship-building in sustaining rural public health systems. Presenters will also discuss how rural public health partners are navigating changing expectations, limited resources, and emerging opportunities for innovation and collaboration.

Rather than presenting a single program model or finalized research project, this session is intended to foster dialogue and shared learning around the evolving realities of rural workforce development in Colorado. Attendees will gain exposure to current partnership approaches, emerging strategies, and practical considerations for strengthening rural public health capacity through collaborative and equity-focused efforts.

This session aligns with the conference theme of “Stronger Together” by emphasizing the importance of partnerships, shared learning, and collective investment in the future of Colorado’s rural public health workforce.