By Liz Goulard, SEDCOR Board Chair
VP of Academic Services
Chemeketa Community College

I had the pleasure of hearing Marty Brantley share his thoughts about Oregon’s economic outlook at SEDCOR’s July Economic Business Forum. Marty recently retired after three strong years of leadership heading the Oregon Economic and Community Development Department. His outlook for Oregon’s economy is optimistic, yet he urges us to consider critical investments to ensure Oregon remains nationally and globally competitive in the future. Some noteworthy observations:

• Oregon’s employment continues to make steady gains.

• Oregon’s General Fund is projected to grow by an average of 11-12% between 2007 and 2011, bringing an additional $4 billion into the state’s coffers by 2011 – dollars which, if wisely invested, could stimulate additional economic growth.

Oregon and the Mid-Willamette Valley in particular have unique strengths which help our competitive position today:

• We are sandwiched between two large economies (California and Washington) with a window to the Pacific Rim, in a region known for its quality of life and wealth of natural resources.

• Our energy costs, although rising, remain relatively low in comparison to other regions.

• The Mill Creek Industrial Park acreage provides this region the most valuable undeveloped parcel of industrial land on the west coast.

• We benefit from the state’s largest economic development corporation in SEDCOR, with active membership and a president who is a veteran in economic development strategies.

• We are recognized for our savvy site selection and placement. Our nationally-recognized WIN (Workforce Integration Network) team is ready to respond to inquiries from those who have an interest in developing, expanding or relocating their company in this region.

• The Enterprise for Employment and Education is a model for collaboration between workforce development and education interests, bringing funds in partnership with Chemeketa and other partners to stimulate workforce training for entry-level employment, current workforce development, and workers in transition.

This month’s articles highlight our Business and Education partnerships. These partnerships are vitally important to our region’s future economic growth, and warrant careful support and investment, just as critically as our transportation system, affordable housing, shovel-ready industrial land and regional marketing. Luring companies to the Mid-Willamette Valley and retaining current employers requires a positive business climate and investment in our future workforce. Partners such as those highlighted in this issue leverage other resources to create an infrastructure necessary for a strong regional economy.