Career Catalyst: How the Chino Valley Chamber of Commerce is Igniting Growth Through Workforce Development

Career Catalyst

The Chino Valley Chamber of Commerce is a trusted catalyst and convener, driving innovation and strategic partnerships to fuel economic growth and workforce development in the region. As industries evolve and labor market demands shift, the Chamber is leading with integrity, commitment and innovation to ensure that businesses and job seekers have the resources they need to succeed.

Regional Workforce Trends: A Call to Action

Recent data from the California Employment Development Department (EDD) highlights the economic shifts affecting the Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario region:

• Non-farm employment grew by 1.6% over the past year, adding 27,300 jobs, yet unemployment remains at 5.3%, higher than the national average of 4.0%.
• Healthcare, trade and logistics are growing, while manufacturing and construction sectors are declining.
• The government sector added nearly 10,000 jobs, underscoring the impact of public investment in workforce programs.

The Chino Valley Chamber of Commerce recognizes these challenges and opportunities and is stepping forward with solutions that foster future prosperity and sustainability for businesses and workers.

The Chamber’s Role: Bridging the Gap Between Employers and Job Seekers

Through the Upskill Chino Valley initiative, the Chamber is strengthening the workforce ecosystem by providing education, training and career placement services. With a focus on equity, accessibility and inclusion, the Chamber ensures that opportunities are available to all members of the community, regardless of background or experience level.

Key Programs Driving Workforce Transformation Include:

1. HIRE Grant – Expanding Second-Chance Employment
   The HIRE program, supported by $319,000 in funding, empowers justice-involved individuals to reenter the workforce, providing businesses with on-the-job training (OJT) support to facilitate successful employment transitions.
   Learn more about how to access funding for your business through the HIRE Grant
2. Employment Training Panel (ETP) – Investing in Workforce Upskilling
   With $500,000 in workforce training funds, the Chamber is helping local businesses develop their employees’ skills, preparing them for long-term sustainability in a competitive market. The Chamber’s workforce roundtables serve as a trusted space for employers, policymakers, and industry experts to collaborate on solutions.
   Learn more about how to receive ETP funds for your business
3. Talent Pipeline Management (TPM) & IREN – Preparing for the Jobs of Tomorrow
   As demand for clean energy and healthcare careers grows, the Chamber is investing in emerging industries through Talent Pipeline Management (TPM) and the Inland Region Energy Network (IREN). These initiatives help businesses identify and train workers to meet evolving industry needs.
   Learn more about our Talent Pipeline Management work
4. Chaffey College Internships & Job Board – Strengthening Career Pathways
   By partnering with Chaffey College, the Chamber is creating structured internship programs and job placement services. Through these initiatives, students and career seekers are gaining hands-on experience and direct connections to local employers.
   Learn more about our Workforce Development work and our partnership with Chaffey College
   
5. Job Fairs, Industry Roundtables & Employer Engagement – Building Stronger Connections
   In partnership with the County of San Bernardino Workforce Development Department, the Chamber hosts job fairs and industry-specific roundtables to connect employers with qualified job seekers and foster collaboration across sectors.
   The Chamber is also developing employer engagement surveys to better understand local business needs and tailor workforce strategies accordingly. These efforts are amplified by sharing success stories that demonstrate the real-world impact of workforce programs and inspire continued investment.
   Learn more about our Workforce Development efforts

Leading Through Engagement and Innovation

At the heart of the Chamber’s workforce efforts is a deep commitment to engagement. We bring together businesses, educators, policymakers and community leaders to create lasting impact. The Chamber excels at:

• Facilitating cross-sector partnerships
• Listening to employers to guide workforce strategy
• Collaborating with community colleges to create strong curriculum and pathways to careers.
• Creating platforms for dialogue and collaboration
• Championing innovative, inclusive hiring practices

A Vision for the Future: Sustainable Workforce Solutions

The Chino Valley Chamber of Commerce is not just responding to workforce trends — it is shaping the future of economic development in the region. By embracing innovation, leadership and strategic partnerships, the Chamber is creating sustainable workforce solutions that will drive prosperity for years to come.

Businesses, job seekers and community leaders — this is your opportunity to be part of a movement that is redefining success in the Chino Valley.

Are you ready to engage? Connect with the Chamber today and join us in igniting growth and positive change in our business community.