Hi Friends,

Meeting our region’s workforce challenges will require new ideas and fresh perspectives. Panelists at the upcoming Community Collaborative & Industry luncheon have new solutions. Solutions that are actionable and will help make all our industries more regionally competitive.

From Oregon’s new BOLI-approved bioscience apprenticeship program to a pilot seafood butchery training program at coastal high schools, and the Springfield Chamber’s Student Access Pass strengthening employer-student connections – available to plug-in to right now. 

Join me on March 20th as we explore these cutting-edge initiatives and more. We are stronger together.

Register today!

In partnership,

Matt

The Community Collaborative & Industry Luncheon returns on March 20 at Venue 252, and we are thrilled to introduce this year’s panelists.

Moderated by Skip Newberry, President & CEO of the Technology Association of Oregon, this powerhouse discussion will explore how industry leaders are tackling talent pipeline challenges and building a future-ready workforce.

Meet the Panel

Vonnie Mikkelsen, President & CEO

Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce

Vonnie brings a wealth of experience in economic development, business advocacy, and community engagement. Her expertise in fostering business success and her passion for collaboration make her a dynamic voice in shaping our region’s future.

Marcus Hinz, Executive Director

Oregon Coast Visitors Association

With a deep commitment to strengthening Oregon’s tourism economy, Marcus excels at bringing diverse stakeholders together. His leadership in regional tourism planning and economic alignment will offer valuable insights for workforce and industry development.

Shelly Ridder, Community Engagement & Workforce Director

Oregon Bioscience Association

Shelly’s extensive background in higher education, workforce development, and inclusive cultures provides a unique perspective on talent pipelines and industry growth.

Take part in an engaging discussion on cultivating a skilled workforce and enhancing regional economic competitiveness. Very few tables are left, buy your table today!

In times of rapid change and uncertainty, new opportunities, community and connection matter more than ever. That’s why Latino Professionals Connect (LPC) continues to serve as a vital space where Latino professionals in Lane County can gather, grow, and thrive. Founded in 2016 by Ashley Espinoza, LPC was created to provide a space for Latinos to build meaningful relationships, advance professionally, and support one another in a world that often presents unique challenges.

Collaborative EDO, is proud to be a partner in hosting and supporting these events because we believe that economic growth and innovation happen when all members of our community have access to opportunity and support. We stand alongside LPC in ensuring that Latino professionals are not just included, but empowered to lead.



As Cesar Chavez wisely said, "We cannot seek achievement for ourselves and forget about progress and prosperity for our community." LPC is funded by the Latino Partnership Program (LPP) through the Oregon Community Foundation, which strengthens Latino leadership, economic opportunity, and community connections across Oregon. 

The Latino population in Oregon not only enriches the state's cultural diversity but also plays a crucial role in driving economic growth and job creation. Now is the time to show up, invest in this work, and help build a future where Latino professionals in our region are valued, celebrated, and positioned for success. ¡Juntos, avanzamos!

If you ask Vonnie Mikkelsen, President & CEO of the Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce, what fuels her passion for her work, she’ll tell you it’s the people. From business leaders to educators, she thrives on collaboration and community impact. Her journey to the Chamber world may have been accidental, but her dedication to strengthening businesses and careers is anything but. Since taking the helm, she’s helped launch one of the region’s most innovative workforce development initiatives, WorkReady.

In 2016, WorkReady set out with a big mission: improving graduation rates, expanding Career & Technical Education (CTE), and forging direct connections between students and local businesses. And the impact? Over 3,200 students and 150+ businesses engaged, and thousands of dollars funneled into hands-on learning programs like robotics, welding, and healthcare training. WorkReady has become a model for workforce development, earning recognition across Oregon and beyond.

As industries evolve, so does WorkReady. With new programs like the Essential Skills Training workshop and the Student Access Pass, the Chamber is ensuring that local businesses are prepared for the changing job market. From AI to employability skills, WorkReady is shaping the workforce of tomorrow.

And if WorkReady had a mascot? The team says it has to be Sully from Monsters, Inc.. Sully didn’t rise to the top just because he was big and strong, he thrived because of his leadership, adaptability, and his ability to work as a team.

Want to know the secret to building a workforce that’s not just ready but WorkReady? Join Vonnie at the upcoming Community Collaborative and Industry Luncheon, where she’ll dive into the real impact of workforce development and how businesses like yours can benefit. Discover how companies in our region are using WorkReady to find talent, strengthen teams, and stay ahead of industry shifts.