MSJC honors City's Economic Development Department

From left: Cory Coburn (Business Development, Economic Development Department), Kristina Hernandez (Industry Marketing & Outreach, Economic Development Department), Bryan Jones (Assistant City Manager).

Press release from the City of Menifee:

MENIFEE – The City of Menifee’s Economic Development Department has been honored as the 2025 Outstanding Industry Partner of the Year by Mt. San Jacinto College. This recognition celebrates the City’s commitment to workforce development, job creation, and fostering strategic partnerships that benefit the local economy.

Menifee is the first city to receive this prestigious honor, underscoring the strength of the collaboration between the City, the Menifee Valley Chamber of Commerce, and MSJC. Through impactful initiatives such as internships, job fairs, and job placement programs, this joint partnership has directly connected local residents with high-demand careers, advancing both individual success and regional workforce development.

A special congratulations was given to Kayla Charters (left), Economic Development Manager for the City of Menifee, who was recognized at the award ceremony for her exceptional contributions to workforce development. Charters’ dedication to advancing community opportunities and her leadership in connecting businesses with a skilled workforce have been critical to the City’s economic success. Her tireless efforts continue to inspire positive change in Menifee and the surrounding region.

“This recognition truly reflects the power of collaboration,” said Nesha Hill, Job Developer/Placement Coordinator at MSJC. “The City of Menifee’s Economic Development Department, Kayla Charters, and the Menifee Valley Chamber of Commerce have all been instrumental in creating meaningful connections and ensuring that Menifee’s residents are well-equipped for success in the workforce.”

The Menifee Valley Chamber of Commerce was also recognized as part of this honor. Their ongoing support of local businesses and workforce initiatives has played an integral role in the success of Menifee’s economic development efforts.

“This recognition underscores the power of collaboration and the impact of strong partnerships on our community,” said Katie Luna, President/CEO of the Menifee Valley Chamber of Commerce. “Through our work with Mt. San Jacinto College and the City of Menifee’s Economic Development Department, we’re building a foundation for workforce success and advancing economic development. By creating opportunities for local talent and businesses, we’re strengthening our region’s economic future. We’re proud to be named the 2025 Outstanding Industry Partner of the Year and look forward to continuing our mission of fostering innovation and prosperity.”

Menifee’s workforce development efforts are already yielding impressive results, with the California Employment Development Department reporting a 7.8 percent increase in Menifee’s employment rate from 2022 to 2023. In addition, the City is actively engaged in the Southwest Riverside County Higher Education Coalition, which focuses on expanding four-year degree programs, particularly in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).

“Workforce Development is a critical component to attracting high-skill, high-wage employers to the City and region,” said Charters. “With enhanced collaboration with Menifee’s education partners and an innovative approach to economic development, Menifee will continue to elevate the workforce development pipeline to support the business community.”