The Future is Working: Driving Economic Opportunity through Education and Workforce Development
February 17 @ 2:00 pm - 5:00 pm
Join us for a special convening to share the findings of the 2026 Orange County Economic Opportunity Report.
Be the first to hear key findings from the inaugural report, presented by Dr. Wallace Walrod, Chief Economic Advisor for the Orange County Business Council (OCBC). The event will feature data, strategic recommendations, and a panel discussion with local experts exploring how education and workforce systems can power a more equitable and resilient Orange County. Attendees will also engage with one another around the recommendations, with the goal of shaping a collective call to action. We look forward to convening community, education, business, and civic leaders to help chart Orange County’s thriving future together.
Meet our Presenters and Panelists
Highlights of the Event:
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- Keynote Presentation: Unveiling of the 2026 Orange County Economic Opportunity Report.
- Panel Discussion: Insights from industry and education leaders on fostering economic opportunities through strategic collaborations.
- Breakout Sessions: Designing Opportunity Through Partnerships and Collaboration
- Career Technical Education: The Map Is Clear. Now We Build the Roads – Led by Kathy Boyd, Executive Director, Career Education and Workforce Development, Orange County Department of Education
- Community Colleges: Engines of Economic Opportunity – Led by Stephanie Feger, Project Director, Coast Community College District
- Stabilizing the Childcare Workforce: Solving a Critical Market Failure – Led by Kim Goll, President & CEO, First 5 Orange County
- Nonprofit Partnerships: Removing Barriers to Workforce Mobility – Led by Sue Parks, President & CEO, Orange County United Way
- Networking Reception: Engage in potential partnerships and initiatives that will drive our community towards a prosperous future.
Your participation and support are crucial as we embark on this journey to transform Orange County into a hub of educational excellence and economic vitality. We hope you will join us in this collaborative effort to build a brighter future for all.
Location Information
The Cove @ UCI
5270 California Ave., Irvine, CA 92617
Event attendees may park free of charge.
