-Editorial
The Desert Region Career Resource Expo transformed the Imperial Valley Mall into a bustling center of opportunity on Friday, connecting hundreds of job seekers with employers, training providers, and workforce resources.
Imperial Valley remains one of the regions with the highest unemployment rates in California, yet the workforce is present and eager. Hundreds of job seekers attended the event, demonstrating a strong local demand for employment and a community ready to engage with opportunities to rebuild and grow the economy.
Co-hosted by the Imperial County Workforce Development Board, the County of Imperial, and Congressman Dr. Raul Ruiz, the event brought together public and community partners dedicated to expanding access to quality jobs and strengthening the regional workforce.
With over 1,700 registered attendees and many walk-ins, the expo featured more than 50 employers and agencies offering live job openings, resume reviews, and career coaching. Industries represented included healthcare, retail, public service, construction, trades, and education. Notably, employers from neighboring Yuma also participated.
Imperial County Board of Supervisors Peggy Price opened the event, emphasizing the county’s commitment to building a resilient workforce. “This is what progress looks like—community partners coming together to uplift our residents and empower working families,” she said.
Congressman Raul Ruiz highlighted the importance of federal support for rural workforce development, pledging continued advocacy for investments in job training and economic growth.
“Too many hardworking people in our region have lost their jobs through no fault of their own, and I’m here to fight for them. Today’s Career Resource Expo was about giving families real opportunities to get back on their feet. I will continue pushing in Congress for federal investments in job training, workforce development, and economic growth so that no one in the Imperial Valley is left behind. That also means lowering everyday costs, like food, housing, and health care, so working families can focus on rebuilding, not just surviving. We must make sure everyone has the tools they need to rebuild, recover, and thrive,” Ruiz said.
Assemblymember Jeff Gonzalez also attended, joining local leaders in endorsing job creation efforts across the region.
“I had a great time meeting so many of you today at the Desert Region Career & Resource Expo at the Imperial Valley Mall,” said Assemblymember Jeff Gonzalez. “Thank you to all the businesses and organizations who showed up to support the people of AD36. I’ll continue working hard in Sacramento to ensure your voices are heard and that our local economy has the opportunity to grow and thrive.”
Priscilla Lopez, Deputy Director of Employment Services for the Imperial County Workforce Development Board, praised the collaboration that made the event possible. “When employers, elected leaders, and workforce professionals unite, real impact happens,” she said.
