FutureMakers Coalition looks at the whole of the system and finds innovative ways of addressing chronic problems and issues. While primarily concerned with workforce and jobs and fostering a robust economy for the region, FutureMakers looks to reduce the barriers to participation and to think anew about both the results and how to achieve those results. Questions like the following will be addressed in the session: What are the barriers to greater participation in the workforce requiring post-secondary credentialing? How can people from different backgrounds and interests work together cooperatively? How do we mobilize a community around a shared goal? What sort of leadership works best with diverse participants? Can the SDGs be used to help set goals and keep participants aligned? Can participants agree on indicators of success using the SDG framework? Can backbone leadership be both firm and consistent as well as patient and accommodating? Can systemic change be driven from the community level with effective engagement of national partners?