Golden State Today

Governor Gavin Newsom has announced the creation of the California Jobs First Council, a new state council focused on creating jobs to accelerate economic and workforce projects throughout California. The Governor stated, “California has created more opportunities, more jobs, and more businesses than any other state, but we need to ensure that we’re all moving forward together.”

The California Jobs First Council, co-chaired by Dee Dee Myers, Senior Advisor to Governor Newsom, and Stewart Knox, Secretary of Labor & Workforce Development, will bring together various state entities to streamline economic and workforce development programs. Myers expressed her enthusiasm, stating, “The California Jobs First Council is another piece of the puzzle in the Governor’s pursuit of creating a California For All.”

The Council's objective is to guide the state’s investments in economic and workforce development to create more family-supporting jobs and prioritize industry sectors for future growth. Stewart Knox, Secretary of the California Labor & Workforce Development Agency, emphasized the importance of the Council, stating, “California Jobs First represents a very intentional, inclusive approach to economic and workforce development.”

In line with the Governor's vision, the Council will coordinate the development of a statewide industrial strategy and support regional Jobs First Collaboratives to expand industry and create jobs locally. The $182 million grants awarded to the 13 Jobs First Collaboratives will enable regions to invest in sector-specific pre-development activities. Governor Newsom highlighted the significance of this investment, stating, “California Jobs First represents a very intentional, inclusive approach to economic and workforce development.”

Various leaders from different regions have expressed their support for the initiative. Matthew Mena, Executive Director of IEGO, emphasized the need for collaboration, stating, “We need an all of government approach to helping our partners create quality jobs and a more accessible economy.” Evan Schmidt, President & CEO of Valley Vision, expressed gratitude for the collaborative effort, saying, “We are at a pivotal moment in the Capitol region, and we are grateful that the Governor is bringing his team together to collaborate with our regions.” Ashley Swearengin, President & CEO of the Central Valley Community Foundation, acknowledged the Governor's commitment to the Central San Joaquin Valley. Stephen Cheung, President & CEO of the Los Angeles Economic Development Corporation, commended the Governor’s commitment to creating a more inclusive economy with quality jobs in Los Angeles County.

The California Jobs First Council is a crucial component of California's strategy to prepare students and workers for high-paying careers, aligning and simplifying the education and workforce systems in the state. The Council's efforts aim to ensure that all Californians have access to career pathways and opportunities for economic success.