What was your first summer job? 

As we find ourselves in the heart of summer, I'm reminded of my first job at my grandfather's machine shop when I was just 13. The smell of the oil used to machine the parts is still vivid in my memory. My tasks involved cleaning and packaging parts before delivering them, but delivery days were my favorite. Those were the days I got to interact with people and visit the large manufacturing companies that ordered our parts. It was then that I discovered my love for engaging with people and learning about different businesses in the community. The skills, experience and curiosity I gained during that summer stayed with me not only through my teenage years but my entire career. Looking back on my younger self, it is apparent how crucial and powerful exposure and experiences are when it comes to shaping lives and career paths.  

This summer, our chamber and community are actively focusing on workforce development, recognizing it as a cornerstone for our region's growth and prosperity. We have launched several initiatives aimed at attracting and retaining talent, providing ongoing education and training opportunities, and fostering an environment where businesses and employees can thrive. Workforce development remains a key focus area at The Chamber because we understand there is no one-size-fits-all solution to our region’s workforce needs. Instead, as highlighted throughout the July-August issue of the Bridge Magazine, we are dedicated to supporting, connecting and activating our partners, members and educators to build a workforce ecosystem that is both responsive and focused. 

Our upcoming board retreat will further reinforce these efforts. During the retreat, we will discuss strategic plans to enhance our initiatives and impact, explore innovative solutions to address workforce challenges, and strengthen our commitment to our five cornerstones of work. 

As we move through the summer and beyond, let’s continue to focus on building a robust workforce that will support our community’s long-term success. Together, we can make our region a place where both businesses and individuals can thrive.