Kim Fedrick, JVS SoCal’s Chief Program Officer, joined three other area workforce leaders at BizFed Institute’s Workforce Development Forum, a regional event focused on strengthening Southern California’s workforce.
Hosted by the BizFed Institute, the forum brought together leaders from education, business, and community-based organizations to discuss strategies for creating a stronger, more inclusive workforce prepared to meet the evolving needs of employers across multiple industries.
“Being a part of the Workforce Development Forum is very important for JVS SoCal, and it was an honor for me to sit on the panel,” said Fedrick. “We have a chance to interact with employers as they share their needs in developing a well-prepared workforce for the future. We are able to share our successes and learn from theirs to move ahead to the future.”
Kevin Harbour, president of the BizFed Institute, emphasized the importance of engaging workforce development partners.
“Education and upskilling are essential,” he said. “Community-based organizations like JVS SoCal play a critical role in ensuring people remain relevant and continue to grow as professionals. When individuals upskill and stay engaged, businesses thrive—and the entire regional economy benefits.”
Fedrick was joined in the panel by Dr. Noel Hacegaba, Chief Operating Officer, Port of Long Beach; Cynthia Mitchell-Heard, president & CEO of the Los Angeles Urban League and Dr. Jennifer Zellet, president of the Antelope Valley College. The event was hosted at the UCLA Extension Gayley Center.
The event underscored JVS SoCal’s long-standing commitment to helping individuals gain meaningful employment through training programs, employer partnerships, and wraparound support. The Workforce Development Forum was part of BizFed’s BuildUP LA Series.