Recent data shows that young professionals are facing significant hurdles in today’s workforce. According to Pew Research Center, only 55% of adults under 30 are employed full-time, a drop from 64% in 2000, and 34% report feeling in crisis or concerned about their mental health, compared to just 8% of those over 50 according to Forbes. Additionally, 61% of Millennials and Gen Z workers are stressed, overwhelmed, and at risk of burnout. Given these challenges, it is clear that we, as a community, must provide stronger connections, clear pathways to success, and opportunities for growth to fully harness their potential.
Together, we at the Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce and the Young Professionals Network of Mesa County (YPN) are committed to creating opportunities for young professionals to thrive. We are investing in initiatives like the Young Professionals Summit and the BestSlope NextGen Awards, programs designed to empower young professionals to build networks, hone their skills, and gain recognition for their contributions. These efforts are vital to cultivating a new generation of leaders who will drive innovation and economic growth across our valley.
But this isn’t just about keeping our young professionals here; it’s about helping them build meaningful careers and fulfilling lives within our community. Young professionals bring fresh perspectives that challenge the status quo, foster creativity, and encourage new ways of thinking. Their inclusion is essential to the dynamic evolution of our local economy. By creating spaces where they can engage with industry leaders, learn from experienced mentors, and connect with peers, we are building a stronger foundation for everyone’s future.
Our recently launched survey strives to dive into what is top-of-mind for this critical sector of our local talent pool. We hope to continue to identify the resources that are best aligned with the needs of these individuals while welcoming them as part of our community’s tapestry.
We must also recognize that investing in our young workforce isn’t just a task for businesses or organizations—it’s a responsibility we all share. Schools, local governments, and civic groups can also play vital roles in fostering environments where young talent can flourish. When we all work together to create a supportive ecosystem, we not only improve individual outcomes but enhance the vibrancy and resilience of our entire community. This collaboration can be a game-changer in building a community that truly values and retains its young leaders.
To the young professionals reading this: know that you are essential to the fabric of our community. Seize every opportunity to connect, grow, and lead. And to our broader community: your role is just as critical. We invite you to support these young leaders, provide mentorship, celebrate their successes, and create an environment where they can flourish. Together, we can ensure that the future of our valley is bright, inclusive, and prosperous.
The strength of our community relies on every generation working side by side. We can’t wait for the future to unfold; we must actively shape it. Let’s build a valley where every person feels valued, every voice is heard, and every talent has a chance to shine. Let’s not wait for the future to happen to us—let’s build it together, one connection, one opportunity, and one new leader at a time.
Learn more about YPN at ypnmc.org and explore the Chamber’s efforts to support our business community.
Alessandra Muse is the Director of Workforce Development at the Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce. She leads initiatives to strengthen the local workforce, develop talent pipelines, and create opportunities for career growth within the community. Through partnerships with businesses, educational institutions, and community organizations, Alessandra works to ensure a vibrant, skilled, and adaptable workforce that supports economic prosperity in the Grand Valley.
Brittany Dixon is the Chair of the Young Professionals Network of Mesa County, a program of the Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce dedicated to empowering young professionals through networking, education, and leadership opportunities. She also serves as the Executive Director of Club 20, advocating for the interests of Western Colorado.
