The Valley Industry Association will present a panel discussion titled “Focus Forward: The Emerging Workforce” at VIA’s monthly business luncheon at the Hyatt Regency Valencia on Tuesday, May 21, at 11:45 a.m.

Led by Dr. Mariane Doyle, director of Career Technical and Adult Education in the Career and College Readiness Department of the William S. Hart Union High School District, the panel will explore six specific career pathways through the perspective of students involved in the programs.

Dr. Mariane Doyle, director of Career Technical and Adult Education in the Career and College Readiness Department of the William S. Hart Union High School District.

Each of the six students will share insight into the Hart District Career Pathway program, including what they’ve learned, where they are going, and how they plan to get there. They will discuss how they have been able to become career and college ready through these experiences while completing their high school requirements.

“Our Hart District students represent the future workforce in the Santa Clarita Valley and their voices help us understand how business partners can influence the development of their own resident talent,” Doyle said. “Just as our business partners are critical advisory members shaping the curriculum we provide, student voices are imperative to the relevance of business, industry, and education in today’s economy.”

The emerging workforce is on the cusp of Generation Z and Millennials, according to Doyle. By 2020 they will comprise the largest segment of working adults age 18 and over.

“The business community has a real opportunity to become influencers with this new workforce who are graduating high school with workplace readiness skills already in hand,” said VIA Chairwoman of the Board Teresa Todd. “VIA members can realize a competitive advantage in developing and growing their businesses by embracing the emerging workers and understanding interactions. The information provided in this month’s Speaker Series luncheon provides that benefit.”

“VIA is known for its timely and relevant programming,” said Kathy Norris, VIA CEO. “Each month we develop programs around topics that are relevant to our local business community.”

In the past year, VIA has hosted such hot topic subjects as Workers’ Compensation, Active Shooter Awareness Training, and Cybersecurity, to name a few.

Reservations are required. Tickets available at www.VIA.org/calendar or by calling 661-294-8088.

The Hyatt Regency Valencia is located at 24500 Town Center Drive, Valencia 91355.

For more information, contact the VIA office at admin@via.org.

About the Valley Industry Association
The Valley Industry Association of Santa Clarita represents business interests throughout the Santa Clarita Valley. VIA provides its members – industrial, commercial and service companies – the opportunity to collaborate on a broad range of business issues. In addition to being a legislative advocate, VIA serves as a one-stop shop for relevant business information, supports local educational initiatives, professional development, and provides networking opportunities. Visit www.VIA.org for more information.