The Role Chambers of Commerce Play in Regional Workforce Development

Chambers of Commerce have long been the backbone of local economies, serving as catalysts for economic growth, advocates for business, and conveners of ideas and leaders. However, one of the most crucial roles they play is in the realm of workforce development. As the President/CEO of the Murrieta/Wildomar Chamber of Commerce and the Chairman of the Board for the Riverside County Workforce Development Board (WDB), I have seen firsthand how Chambers can drive impactful change in this critical area.

Workforce development is more than just training programs; it is about creating a thriving ecosystem where businesses can find skilled talent, and individuals can access quality job opportunities that lead to sustainable careers. At the Riverside County WDB, we are dedicated to building a resilient workforce that meets the needs of our regional economy. Our mission is to bridge the gap between employers and job seekers, ensuring that our local workforce is prepared for the challenges of today's evolving job market.

Chambers of Commerce like the Murrieta/Wildomar Chamber play a pivotal role in this effort by bringing together businesses, educators, community leaders, and government agencies to address workforce needs strategically. As Chairman of the Riverside County Workforce Development Board, my goal has been to align the Board’s efforts with the priorities of our business community, ensuring that workforce initiatives are not only relevant but also effective in driving economic growth.

In this capacity, I have had the opportunity to work closely with both the California Workforce Association (CWA) and the National Association of Workforce Boards (NAWB) to advocate for workforce development at the state and national levels. My work with these organizations, particularly in our nation’s capital, has centered on influencing workforce policy, securing funding, and ensuring that regional boards like ours are equipped to provide the resources and programs our businesses and job seekers need to succeed.
Through our collaboration with the CWA and NAWB, we have been able to elevate the voices of our local businesses and workforce partners, advocating for policies that support innovation in workforce training, align education pathways with industry needs, and foster public-private partnerships. These efforts have not only strengthened our regional economy but have also positioned the Riverside County WDB as a leader in workforce development.

The role of Chambers in workforce development is critical because we understand the needs of our businesses and can bring that knowledge to the table when creating workforce strategies. We are uniquely positioned to connect employers with job seekers, facilitate upskilling opportunities, and advocate for policy changes that drive economic growth.
As we look to the future, the Murrieta/Wildomar Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with the Riverside County WDB and other key stakeholders, remains committed to driving workforce development that supports both our local businesses and our community. Our work is far from over, but together, we can continue to build a robust and resilient workforce that will power our economy for years to come.