The governmental public health workforce is the most essential element in our collective efforts to ensure a health nation, thriving and equitable communities, and a strong economy. Developing an effective workforce takes time, patience, funding, and effort. When done correctly, workforce development brings a sustainable return on investment. But, will the field of public health get it right? While there has never been a scarcity of competing visions for how best to develop the governmental public health workforce, implementation and execution has been scattershot often driven by available funding rather than a strategic plan. In this session, five leaders will discuss the most pressing issues in public health workforce development and how to ensure that we get it right. Data from the 2021 PH WINS will be used to ensure the discussion is grounded in data. Discussion topics will include preparing the workforce to address racism as a public health problem; the impact of fatigue, stress, and burnout on the workforce; ideas for developing partnerships with other sectors; leadership practices necessary for strong public health agencies; and suggestions and advice for finding employment in the public health sector. This will be a frank, open discussion that will create space for audience questions both in-person and virtually. This session will be live streamed to ensure maximum audience participation and access for those unable to attend the conference in-person.