The Future of Santa Cruz: Skilled Workforce

The article “The Future of Santa Cruz County Is Dependent Upon a Skilled Workforce” by Casey Beyer, CEO of Santa Cruz County Chamber of Commerce, explores a multitude of projection data is circulating from sources like the US Census Bureau, the California Finance Department, and the Santa Cruz Workforce Development Board, all providing different perspectives on the present and future economy of California. A particularly stark forecast from the California Department of Finance suggests that by 2060, due to declining births, aging residents, and an exodus of residents fleeing high housing costs and quality-of-life issues, the population will stagnate around 39.5 million. However, Stephen Levy, director of the Center for Continuing Study of the California Economy, expresses hope that if California can progress towards its housing goal of 2.5 million market-rate and affordable homes by 2030, the state will be able to retain and attract more residents.

The Santa Cruz County Workforce Development Board's report offers interesting parallels. It shows a demographic shift towards an aging population, with almost 30% of the workforce over 55 and an 18% increase in the 65-and-older population between 2017 and 2022. Despite this, the report highlights improvements in job quality over the past five years and substantial investment in regional infrastructure and housing, suggesting potential impacts on the workforce responsible for these projects. It is apparent that the future of Santa Cruz County will be heavily influenced by developments in job creation, housing production, and infrastructure enhancements.