On March 12, the Greater Arvada Chamber of Commerce hosted the State of Talent as part of its B.O.L.D. 2026 All-Partner Briefing. The event at Social Capitol brought together business leaders, educators, and workforce development professionals to discuss the future of talent in Colorado. With a rapidly changing labor market, high attrition rates, and evolving workforce demands, the event provided valuable insights into how the state can navigate these challenges.
Here are three key takeaways from the State of Talent presentation from Andrew Bercich, CEO of SummitWorX Solutions:
1. Workforce Attrition is a Growing Concern
Colorado ranks #2 in the country for workforce attrition, with an estimated 400,000 Coloradans set to retire in the next decade. Compounding this issue is a plateauing high school graduation rate, limiting the pipeline of new talent entering the workforce. As labor shortages persist, businesses and policymakers must find innovative solutions to attract, train, and retain workers to sustain economic growth.
2. Skilled Trades and High-Tech Jobs are in Demand
Employers in Arvada and Jefferson County are facing a critical shortage of skilled tradespeople, in roles such as HVAC technicians, manufacturing machinists, and electricians. Additionally, job openings continue to grow in sectors such as healthcare, construction, software, and technology. Addressing these gaps requires investment in both high-tech skills and hands-on training programs to ensure a robust and adaptable workforce.
3. AI and Quantum Technology Will Shape the Future Economy
As artificial intelligence becomes more integrated into industries, leveraging it rather than avoiding it will be crucial for workforce success. Meanwhile, quantum technology is expected to bring over 1,000 new jobs to Colorado in the coming years, with the potential to significantly impact the state’s economy. Though quantum tech is still decades from full commercialization, its promise of six-figure salaries accessible to a wide range of workers highlights the need for proactive workforce development. Institutions like Red Rocks Community College are already helping companies expand and upskill their workforce to meet these evolving demands.
Click here to read takeaways from the Chamber’s February 2025 forum on quantum technology.
Moving Forward
Businesses, educators, and workforce leaders must collaborate to ensure the state can meet its workforce needs. As Andrew Bercich noted, “Help is available to tackle workforce needs. You don’t have to do it alone.”
The Chamber’s B.O.L.D. 2026 initiative continues to be a driving force in shaping the future of work in Colorado. Learn more about the initiative here and view accomplishments here.
Sign up to receive updates on priorities of the Greater Arvada Chamber, such as talent, at arvadachamber.org/networks.
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