San Marcos Chamber and HCEDP Organize Workforce and Higher Education Luncheon to Address Regional Economic Growth

What's Happening?

The San Marcos Area Chamber of Commerce, in collaboration with the Hays Caldwell Economic Development Partnership (HCEDP), is set to host the 2025 State of Workforce & Higher Education luncheon on September 18 at the San Marcos Conference Center. This annual event aims to unite leaders from business, education, and economic development sectors to discuss the impact of higher education on the workforce in Central Texas. The luncheon will feature prominent speakers such as Dr. Kelly Damphousse, President of Texas State University, Dr. Russell Lowery-Hart, Chancellor of Austin Community College, and Mike Anderson, Provost of Texas State Technical College - New Braunfels Campus. The event is designed to foster dialogue on key trends, opportunities, and challenges affecting both industry and education, with a focus on building a skilled and competitive workforce.

Why It's Important?

The luncheon serves as a critical platform for connecting the business community with educational leaders, emphasizing the importance of developing talent pipelines that support economic growth. By facilitating discussions between stakeholders, the event aims to strengthen partnerships that drive regional development. This initiative is particularly significant as it addresses the need for a skilled workforce, which is essential for sustaining economic prosperity and competitiveness in Central Texas. Employers, educators, policymakers, and community stakeholders are encouraged to participate, highlighting the collaborative effort required to enhance workforce development and educational outcomes.

What's Next?

Participants can register for the Workforce & Education Summit through the San Marcos Area Chamber website, with early registration recommended due to limited space. The event is expected to foster ongoing collaboration between business and education sectors, potentially leading to new initiatives and partnerships that support workforce development. Stakeholders will likely continue to engage in discussions and actions that align educational programs with industry needs, ensuring that the region remains competitive in attracting and retaining businesses.