MILLERSVILLE, Md. – June 4, 2026 – Anne Arundel Workforce Development Corporation (AAWDC) is proud to announce that President & CEO Kirkland J. Murray has been named Workforce Professional of the Year by the National Association of Workforce Development Professionals (NAWDP). The award was presented at the NAWDP Annual Conference, recognizing exceptional leadership, innovation, and contributions to the workforce development profession. 

 

The Workforce Professional of the Year Award honors individuals who have demonstrated outstanding commitment to advancing workforce development and creating meaningful opportunities for job seekers, businesses, and communities. Through his leadership at AAWDC, Murray has championed innovative workforce strategies, strengthened business partnerships, expanded career pathway programs, and helped advance the careers of thousands of county residents. 

 

"I am so humbled and honored to be a workforce development professional," said Murray during his acceptance speech. “I wake up every morning thankful that I have the opportunity to serve my community and change lives.” 

 

Presenting the award, Maryland Secretary of the Department of Social and Economic Mobility Walter Simmons highlighted Murray’s transformative leadership and lasting impact on workforce development in Maryland and beyond. 

 

"Kirk transformed [AAWDC] into an intelligence-driven organization. Through this work, AAWDC has become nationally recognized for its industry sector training model, addressing the essential soft skills gap, and developing innovative Work and Learn opportunities," said Simmons. 

 

Simmons also recognized Kirk’s leadership and service across numerous other organizations including the Maryland Workforce Association, Governor’s Workforce Development Board, Maryland’s AIB Pillar III Advisory Committee, Fort Meade Alliance, Maryland Tech Council, and NAWDP itself. 

 

This national recognition reflects not only Murray’s individual contributions, but also the collective efforts of AAWDC staff, board members, partners, businesses, and community stakeholders working together to strengthen the workforce system and expand economic opportunity throughout Anne Arundel County. 

 

For more information about AAWDC and its workforce development initiatives, visit www.aawdc.org.