EDWARDS – Yesterday, the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade (OEDIT) and the Vail Valley Partnership hosted a Regional Talent Summit at Colorado Mountain College in Edwards to convene industry and community leaders, discuss much needed career pathway solutions and begin developing tactical workforce plans to ensure that Colorado workers develop the skills employers need.
“As a state, we are doubling down on workforce development to connect Coloradans to good-paying jobs while supporting regional economic development goals. This Regional Talent Summit will result in a tactical action plan developed by community and business leaders from across northwestern Colorado to meet the region’s unique goals and needs," said Eve Lieberman, OEDIT Executive Director.
The summit focused on the construction, healthcare, and tourism industries in Eagle, Grand, Jackson, Pitkin, Summit, Routt, and Park counties.
“Talent is the currency of the modern economy, and the Regional Talent Summit is about investing wisely. At Vail Valley Partnership, we’re not just talking about workforce challenges — we’re building solutions rooted in collaboration, innovation, and local leadership. The Regional Talent Summit is a critical step in aligning our education systems, business community, and public partners to meet the needs of today’s economy and tomorrow’s opportunities,” said Chris Romer, President & CEO of the Vail Valley Partnership.
Yesterday’s event was one of seven Regional Talent Summits taking place across the state. Established by HB24-1365, these summits build on the impact of the Opportunity Now grant program which has, to date, distributed nearly $90 million to 89 grant recipients to launch and expand innovative talent development programs across the state.
Northwest Colorado has received nearly $4 million in Opportunity Now grants from OEDIT, including:
- Yampa Valley Partnership for Students, Stewardship & Sustainability (YVPS3) - $2,912,774 to support the Colorado Rural Talent Network, which aims to expand rural high school students’ access to job-shadowing, internships, and industry training. Collectively, the Colorado Rural Talent Network serves 20 school districts in 12 counties in partnership with 15 higher education, training, nonprofit, business and industry partners.
- CareerWise Colorado - $944,280 to advance career opportunities and apprenticeships for Colorado’s next generation of educators. In partnership with Colorado Mountain College, this program provides students with paid, on-the-job work experience in local classrooms while they pursue teacher licensure.
Grant recipients from the Yampa Valley Partnership for Students, Stewardship, & Sustainability and Colorado Mountain College participated in the summit.
The Regional Talent Summits were established by HB24-1365. Bill sponsors included Rep. Meghan Lukens.
“Growing our workforce is a top issue in northwest Colorado, and these Regional Talent Summits represent an opportunity to develop local solutions that meet local needs. Yesterday’s conversation is the first step to ensure northwest Colorado communities have more qualified construction workers, early childhood educators and healthcare workers—all essential to a strong and thriving community,” said Rep. Meghan Lukens.
“This Regional Talent Summit is a critical step to empower northwest Colorado workers. By focusing on key industries and fostering collaboration between businesses and educators, we are creating pathways for individuals to learn new skills, advance their careers, and secure good-paying jobs right here in our communities,” said State Senator Dylan Roberts.