REDI’s Annual Luncheon builds a blueprint to forge Redmond’s emerging workforce

REDI’s Annual Luncheon builds a blueprint to forge Redmond’s emerging workforce

On a sunny afternoon in Redmond, the community gathered at the Deschutes County Fairgrounds for REDI’s Annual Luncheon to celebrate progress, share challenges, and ignite inspiration around workforce development and economic vitality. The event, themed “Forging the Future: The Blueprint for Tomorrow’s Emerging Workforce,” showcased innovative partnerships, heartfelt stories, and actionable data-driven insights about the region’s growth trajectory.

The luncheon commenced with Matt McDonald, General Manager for Central Oregon Daily News and event host. He opened with a powerful metaphor: Redmond’s community isn’t just a collection of organizations or a chamber—it’s the “concrete that keeps our community together.” By sharing his own journey from a newcomer to a local anchor, Matt highlighted the importance of welcoming newcomers, investing in local relationships, and prioritizing inclusive growth. He credited the culture of Redmond for continuously “looking to each other first” and fostering a resilient foundation where businesses and organizations thrive.

Investing in Workforce Development: Education and Partnerships

Central to the discussion was the challenge of cultivating the next generation of skilled workers, particularly in the trades and manufacturing industries. Greg Periera, President of Central Oregon Community College (COCC) announced a significant $2.2 million capacity-building grant—including $1 million for new equipment, ensuring students train on the same tools they’ll use in the workforce. Additionally, seven new short-term certificates were developed to give prospective workers critical skills within one academic term. These milestones were the result of strong partnerships between employers, educators, and advisory boards, demonstrating how collaboration accelerates workforce readiness.

Recognition was also given to local Career and Technical Education (CTE) students, CTE program leaders, and award-winning administrators like Brooke Rich, of High Desert ESD underscoring how practical education pathways are vital for sustainable economic growth.

At the Annual Luncheon, the Redmond Executive Association Foundation was proud to present a $15,000 check to the Jake and Josh Eckstein Memorial Trades Scholarship Fund. Angela Boothoyd, REA member, expressed: “Our commitment to the next generation is rooted in the belief that investing in youth education is the key to our future. Through the Jake and Josh Eckstein Memorial Trades Scholarship, we aren't just funding tuition, we’re honoring a vital legacy and fueling the professional growth of Redmond's future workforce."

 Data-Driven Insights: Redmond’s Unique Growth Trajectory

A standout segment featured REDI Director, Steve Curley and Oregon State Economist, Damon Runberg, who unpacked local and state economic data. While Oregon as a whole shed jobs in the past two years and experienced slow population growth, Redmond bucked the trend. The city’s population grew at roughly 2.5% annually this decade, and private employment expanded by over 50%in ten years—nearly 5,000 new jobs. Most notably, manufacturing in Redmond almost doubled (97% growth), positioning the city as an outlier compared to the statewide manufacturing recession.

Key takeaways included Redmond’s intentionality in nurturing manufacturing, diversified industrial sectors ranging from advanced manufacturing to aerospace, and affordable housing relative to neighboring Bend. Partnerships between local government, private investors, and education leaders contributed to the area’s resilience and prosperity.

Leadership, Mentorship, and Emotional Intelligence

The event’s keynote by Canadian ironworker and trades advocate Jamie McMillan,  was a compelling narrative about overcoming adversity, embracing neurodiversity, and the importance of practical skills in an increasingly automated world. Jamie’s journey illustrated how skilled trades can be life-changing, offering competitive wages, stability, and purpose. She urged educators and parents to encourage practical life skills, emotional intelligence, and mentorship—reminding students to embrace diversity, creativity, and personalized pathways rather than fitting into rigid societal molds.

Building Forward: Action and Advocacy

As Redmond continues to grow, the luncheon concluded withcalls to action: nominate local projects for Thrive Awards, attend workforce competitions, and support scholarships aimed at trade education. REDI’s ongoing advocacy for improved business climate and reduced regulatory barriers was highlighted, along with collective gratitude for sponsors and partners.

Redmond’s story is one of intentional, collaborative growth, rooted in local relationships and innovative partnerships. By forging the future together, the community continues to build a vibrant, resilient region for tomorrow’s workforce.

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