The Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce is observing Workforce Development Month by highlighting ongoing efforts to prepare Mesa County for future workforce needs. The Chamber emphasizes that workforce development involves building connections among education, business, and the community to support regional growth.
The Chamber recently received a $99,994 Qualified Apprenticeship Intermediary Grant from the Office of the Future of Work at the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment. This grant will help expand the West Slope Works initiative, which focuses on increasing Registered Apprenticeship Programs, reducing training costs for employers, and improving career access for rural and diverse populations in various industries. The funding aims to strengthen local talent pipelines and help businesses find skilled workers.
Programs targeting youth and young adults are also part of the Chamber’s strategy. The Young Entrepreneurs Academy (YEA!) gives middle and high school students opportunities to create their own businesses. Additionally, the Young Professionals Network (YPN) offers peer support, mentorship, and professional development for emerging leaders.
Local policy is another area of focus. On September 15th, the Chamber will host a Candidate Forum featuring candidates for the Mesa County Valley School District 51 Board of Education. The event aims to highlight how decisions at the school board level affect education quality and career readiness programs.
On September 19th, the annual Golf Tournament at Redlands Mesa will serve as a fundraiser supporting both YEA! and the Mesa County Leadership Program. These initiatives are designed to develop future leaders within the community.
“Workforce development is a shared responsibility. When businesses, educators, families, and community leaders come together, we don’t just prepare individuals for jobs—we create pathways for lifelong success. This September, we invite you to celebrate Workforce Development Month with us by engaging in these programs and investing in the next generation of Mesa County’s workforce,” according to a statement from the Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce.
For more information about these workforce development initiatives or participation opportunities, contact Alessandra at alessandra@gjchamber.org.
