New findings from Lithium Valley study highlight local job opportunities
Adrik Vargas
IMPERIAL COUNTY, Calif. (KYMA) – A new workforce and economic study shows that the growing lithium and clean-energy industry could bring significant jobs and investment to Imperial Valley.
The RAND report outlines the opportunities the industry could create, but also highlights challenges the county still needs to address, including infrastructure, affordable housing, and training programs for local residents.
Priscilla Lopez, Director of Workforce and Economic Development, said the report acts as a “roadmap” for preparing a trained workforce for the emerging industry.
She emphasized that county training funds should be invested locally to ensure residents are the first to benefit.
The study notes that Imperial County already has key pieces in place, such as partnerships with local colleges and existing training programs.
Local unions, including IBEW Local 569, say they are ready to step in as Lithium Valley grows. Union representatives are advocating for project labor agreements with new companies to ensure local workers get first access to jobs.
Daniel MacHain of IBEW Local 569 said, “When you come into an agreement with the unions, that’s a legal document you can actually use so you can get your local people to take those jobs.”
If Lithium Valley reaches its potential, it could reshape Imperial County’s economy, and local workers are preparing to step into these opportunities.