Commissioner Falcone discusses workforce development for Lithium Valley in Imperial County

At the recent May Interagency Equity Advisory Committee Executive Meeting, a significant focus was placed on workforce development in Imperial County, particularly in relation to the emerging Lithium Valley project. Commissioner Falcone highlighted the potential for at least 16,000 jobs to be created through lithium processing and extraction efforts, emphasizing the importance of robust workforce training initiatives.

Falcone noted that Imperial Valley College is at the forefront of this training, having received national recognition for its programs. The state has invested heavily in preparing the local workforce, with approximately $80 million allocated for San Diego State University’s campus in Brawley to support these efforts. This investment aims to ensure that the local community benefits from the resources available in the region, which has historically faced challenges in retaining its workforce.

The discussion underscored the pressing need for infrastructure improvements in Imperial County, which has one of the highest unemployment rates in California, hovering around 17.5%. The commitment to reinvest in the community and attract talent is seen as crucial for the region's economic future, particularly as it seeks to leverage its rich natural resources.

As the meeting concluded, the emphasis on addressing workforce needs and ensuring equitable investment in Imperial County resonated strongly, marking a pivotal step towards fostering local economic growth and stability.