Advancing a New California Economy: Reflections from the California Economic Summit

Ashley De La Rosa, Building Skills Partnership’s Government Relations Coordinator, recently attended the California Economic Summit, produced by California Forward in collaboration with the California Stewardship Network. As the state’s flagship economic convening, the Summit brings together leaders from business, community organizations, government, philanthropy, and labor to advance a shared vision for a New California Economy.

The Summit highlighted regional successes from across California, elevated collective learning, and sparked meaningful conversations about how to build a more resilient, sustainable, and inclusive economic model. Discussions focused on aligning policy, workforce development, and cross-sector collaboration to ensure economic growth benefits all Californians.

By connecting with statewide leaders and partners, we are able to bring back valuable insights and relationships that strengthen our workforce development efforts, expand economic opportunity, and support pathways to quality jobs. These connections are essential to our work at Building Skills Partnership as we continue advocating for systems that allow workers, families, and communities to thrive.

Engagement in spaces like the California Economic Summit reinforces the importance of collaboration across sectors—and reminds us that lasting economic progress is built together.