The Austin Area Chamber and Development Corporation of Austin will jointly host a presentation on the future of Minnesota’s workforce, at noon on Wednesday, June 21, at the Hormel Historic Home.

Bill Blazar, senior vice president of public affairs and business development with the Minnesota Chamber of Commerce, will present the findings of a University of Minnesota Economic Development research study, entitled “Immigrants and Minnesota’s Workforce.”

Like most of the U.S., Minnesota faces profound demographic changes related to aging baby boomers and the simultaneous growth in racial and ethnic diversity.
Together, these changes create opportunities and challenges for Minnesota’s economy and business community.

The report considers key questions for Minnesota’s future, including:

•How well positioned are immigrants and the children of immigrants to contribute to the economic vitality of the state?

•What is the gap between our projected workforce and the skill sets needed to ensure a robust economy in the future?

•The purpose of the report is to describe factors to help everyone better understand the changing demographics in our state as well as the expanding role immigrants play in our workforce.

The presentation is open to the public. Cost is $15 per person, which includes lunch.

To register, contact the Austin Area Chamber of Commerce by phone, 437-4561, email, valerie@austincoc.com, or in person at 329 North Main Street.

The registration deadline is Monday, June 19.