Skip to content

One of the most important aspects of a thriving community is its people. Those currently leading and working and those who will go on to do this in the future. That’s why investments in workforce development and education are vital to economic development.

Several years ago, there was a Fortune 500 company that was looking to open a large operation facility (not in California). They were searching for a low tax rate, affordable location, access to an airport, and other common benefits. They narrowed it down to a short list and dug deeper into the communities on that list.

There was one that had an ideal tax environment and lots of incentives. Upon closer examination, they ruled out this location because they didn’t have the type of skilled employees they needed and their school district was categorized as “under performing.”

That’s a sad story and it obviously impacted the economy of this town as this was the type of employer that would be a game changer for them.

Here at the Alameda Chamber & Economic Alliance, we work hard to ensure our workforce is appealing to potential employers. In fact, we began a foundation last year with one of its goals to be workforce development and leadership. Every year we host a golf tournament as part of the fundraising efforts for our Foundation Scholarship Program.

Sadly, this year we had to postpone the event but that doesn’t mean you can’t still get involved in the Foundation and its efforts to cultivate future leaders and employees. Contact us today and we’d be happy to tell you more about how our current work is impacting our Island.