The Santa Barbara County Workforce Development Board will host its inaugural State of the Workforce Preview event, 9-11:30 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 19 at Craft House at Corque in Solvang.
“This event marks an important step in our continued efforts to bring together business, education and training, workforce, and community leaders to examine the opportunities and challenges shaping Santa Barbara County’s workforce. It will be a small but intimate event,” organizers said.
The program includes two moderated panel discussions that will bring together business and education leaders from across the county for discussions about the connections among industry, education, workforce development, and the community.
Additionally, the 2026 Workforce Awards will be presented.
The program will close with an introduction to the 2027 State of the Workforce Study and how attendees can help shape its direction.
The event is designed as a preview and a starting point for a larger countywide conversation, the larger State of the Workforce event planned for September 2027, organizers said.
At the 2027 event, the Workforce Development Board said it expects to present findings of its comprehensive State of the Workforce study, providing a deeper look at the workforce trends, challenges, and opportunities shaping the county.
“The November preview will give us an opportunity to begin that conversation, hear directly from leaders in our community, and help build momentum for the 2027 event,” organizers said.
The preview event is by invitation and space is limited. Visit the registration page for information and to reserve a seat.