2026 March 11 | “They Don’t Want to Work” ... Or Do They? Understanding Gen Z in Today’s Workplace

2026 March 11 | “They Don’t Want to Work” ... Or Do They? Understanding Gen Z in Today’s Workplace

Wooster, OH

Please join us on Wednesday, March 11, 2026, for “They Don’t Want to Work” ... Or Do They? Understanding Gen Z in Today’s Workplace," presented by Ashleigh Best.

Date: Wednesday, March 11, 2026
Time: 11:30am - 1:00pm
Location: Buehler's Community Room, 3540 Burbank Road, Wooster, OH

Session Description:Gen Z is often described as disengaged, demanding, or difficult to manage. But, how much of that is myth, and how much reflects real shifts in the world of work? For the first time, up to four generations are working side-by-side. Gen Z is challenging long-held assumptions about communication, leadership, and loyalty at work. This session will invite participants to discuss what drives today’s young professionals, how their expectations differ from previous generations, and what these changes mean for recruitment, onboarding, and retention. Participants will explore ways to bridge generational gaps, strengthen early-career engagement, and build a workplace that considers employees across all generations.

Speaker Bio:Ashleigh Best is the Director of Career & Experiential Education at The College of Wooster, where she leads a student-centered team focused on helping students connect their academic experiences to lifelong career development. With over 20 years in higher education, she works closely with Gen Z students and recent graduates, supporting them in translating their interests, values, and skills into meaningful work.

Ashleigh regularly partners with employers and campus leaders to better understand emerging workforce expectations and how to prepare students for successful next steps. A seasoned facilitator, she designs engaging workshops and conversations that help teams reflect, adapt, and take action. She is a Certified Gallup Strengths Coach and holds degrees from Kent State University and Bowling Green State University.

In addition to her role at Wooster, she serves on the Executive Committee for the Liberal Arts Career Network (LACN), sits on the Executive Committee for Goodwill of Wayne & Holmes County, and teaches fitness classes at HealthPoint and Flex Yoga in Wooster.