Vision Brookings Strengthens Workforce Retention Through Connect Brookings

Connect Brookings, supported by a $25,000 annual investment from Vision Brookings for 2023-2025, continues to make a measurable impact in workforce retention by engaging SDSU students, new residents, and young professionals.

Established to help address workforce shortages, the initiative expanded significantly in its first two years. By developing programs and fostering partnerships, Connect Brookings is creating pathways to retain local graduates, strengthen the workforce, and contribute to the regional economy.

Participation has grown substantially. Young professional involvement increased by 54%, with 532 individuals engaged in 2024, compared to 346 in 2023. SDSU student interactions saw a 205% rise, from 920 to 2,805. Outreach efforts to new residents expanded by 7%, reaching 9,119 people in 2024, up from 8,500 the previous year.

A key goal of Connect Brookings is encouraging SDSU graduates to remain in the area. A 2024 survey found 14.64% of students plan to stay in Brookings after graduation, exceeding the 2025 target of 12.25% and nearly doubling the 7.72% recorded in 2022. Programs such as the Work Ready Bootcamp provided career preparation for 12 students through connections with 17 local employers. The annual Intern Mixer helped 17 interns build professional networks, while Chamber staff engaged students through classroom visits and campus events, reinforcing Brookings as a great place to start a career.

Efforts to integrate new residents into the community have also grown. The New Resident BBQ welcomed 110 attendees, and the New Resident Night at Downtown at Sundown introduced 2,946 people to the area, with 51 receiving personal introductions. More than 2,000 welcome postcards were sent, and an email series maintained a strong 44.6% open rate. LiveinBrookings.org received over 6,400 visits, surpassing the 5,000-visit goal and serving as a valuable tool for workforce recruitment.

Young professionals have responded well to networking and career development opportunities. The Young Professional Summit brought together 65 participants, 10 Young Professional Meetups attracted over 180 attendees, and the Brookings Area Young Professionals Facebook group grew to more than 415 members.

“This initiative is about more than just numbers, it’s about creating a place where people want to live, work, and build their future,” said Casey Stickland, Outreach Coordinator for the Brookings Area Chamber of Commerce. “With continued support from Vision Brookings and our partners, we are strengthening connections and building a thriving community.”