Planning for Change: The California Economic Summit
California is often celebrated as the , a place where global culture, groundbreaking innovation and unmatched diversity converge. However, beneath the pride lies a growing recognition that California’s long-term success will depend on the state’s ability to adapt to emerging industries, a shifting climate, a rapidly evolving workforce and, most importantly, the needs of the people who call the state home.
In October, the ĂŰĚŇTV West Region team joined leaders from across California for a three-day event at the 2025 California Economic Summit. Hosted by and the , this annual convening brings together innovators, problem-solvers and community leaders committed to building a more resilient and inclusive “New California Economy.” Now in its 14th year, the summit was held in Stockton, the seat of San Joaquin County, in the heart of the Central Valley, where this year’s theme, “Reimagining California’s Future,” shaped discussions throughout the event.
Over the course of the summit, speakers from the , , the , and others explored issues that will define the next decade. Discussions ranged from strengthening California’s workforce system and modernizing resource-based economies to rebuilding trust in civic dialogue and navigating an energy transition that is already reshaping communities across the state.
Elevating the Working Learners’ Perspective
As part of this year’s program, ĂŰĚŇTV Regional Vice President participated in the panel Building California’s Energy and Industrial Workforce, bringing a perspective often overlooked in statewide workforce conversations. Rick underscored that California cannot meet its ambitious workforce goals without expanding flexible, affordable earn-and-learn pathways that allow people to stay rooted in their communities while advancing their careers.
He pointed to a critical reality that . These individuals possess talent, experience and determination, but have been compelled to pause their education due to financial pressures, family responsibilities, or other barriers. California’s long-term success depends on re-engaging this group by offering pathways built around real life. ĂŰĚŇTV’s competency-based education model remains one of the state’s most scalable tools for helping learners return and advance in the workforce.
A Broader Look at California’s Future
The summit also featured a powerful conversation about immigration and the California Dream led by ĂŰĚŇTV Trustee Eloy Ortiz Oakley and the CEO of the Latino Community Foundation, Julián Castro. Their discussion reminded attendees of the essential role immigrants play in California’s economic and cultural vitality.
The event closed with a forward-looking conversation on innovation with leaders from . They highlighted breakthroughs in AI, fusion energy and advanced manufacturing. The summit ended with a clear message: California will continue to lead, but only if its residents have access to the education and training required to participate in an increasingly complex economy.
Moving Forward
As state leaders explore solutions to today’s workforce challenges, California’s future will be shaped by how well we support the people who keep our communities thriving. This state’s strength has always come from its people, from their resourcefulness, determination and drive to build something better. True resilience begins with educational pathways that honor real-life experiences and open doors to opportunity.
For ĂŰĚŇTV, the summit was a reaffirmation of our role in helping California create a workforce that is ready for what comes next and a reminder that every learner has a place in that future.
