Opportunity Austin

Austin's status as a premier business destination is bolstered by its strong ties with the The University of Texas at Austin: UT President Jay Hartzell emphasizes the university's proactive approach to regional economic development, aiming to be a key player in attracting businesses to Central Texas.  By collaborating with local and state governments, as well as economic development groups, UT seeks to highlight its contributions to corporate growth through research, innovation, and talent development. Read the full story: https://lnkd.in/gp8GjPuc  

Connecting Austin to the World: As we continue our mission to connect with Asian markets, an exciting update includes the Korea International Trade Association(KITA) opening a new trade office in Dallas, serving the Austin region. Charisse Bodisch, CEcD attended the ribbon-cutting ceremony, representing Opportunity Austin and the Austin region. This office will enhance global connectivity, attract foreign investments, and support local economic growth by providing a gateway to Korean markets for Austin businesses and fostering collaboration in tech and innovation sectors. Learn more about this exciting development: https://lnkd.in/dr6MtYZa

The Power of Partnerships: Building the Defense & Aerospace Workforce Our recent EDC meeting highlighted key themes in the emerging defense and aerospace industry, emphasizing Opportunity Austin’s mission to equip our future workforce with the skills needed for this dynamic sector and ensure businesses have access to the talent they need. Discussions centered on: - Acutronic's decision to establish their global headquarters in Austin and launch the Acutronic Apprenticeship Alliance with Bastrop ISD emphasizes the region’s attractiveness and commitment to workforce development. This partnership aims to bridge the gap between education and industry needs, ensuring a steady talent pipeline. - Austin Community College’s role in forming P-Tech programs was discussed, showcasing how these initiatives meet regional talent demands by connecting students with practical, industry-relevant education and training. - Athena Manufacturing highlighted their efforts in developing future talent pipelines by engaging students in manufacturing careers, ensuring a continuous influx of skilled workers to support industry growth. - UT Austin’s partnerships with companies were showcased, focusing on supporting commercialization and developing future talent. Research initiatives aimed at advancing the aerospace and defense sectors in the Austin region were also discussed. - Regional Strengths and Weaknesses: Panelists provided insights into the strengths of our region, such as a robust educational infrastructure and strong industry collaboration, while also addressing areas for improvement to support the future growth of the aerospace industry. Thank you to all the panelists for their insights and contributions.

Austin Parks Ranked No. 3 in Texas in the annual 2024 ParkScore Index by Trust for Public Land. Did you know?: -69% of residents live within a 10-minute walk of a park -Austin's investment in parks stands at $198 per capita, well above the national average of $124. -11% of our land is dedicated to parks and recreation This recognition underscores why Austin is such an attractive place to live, work, and play. Enhancing our quality of life through accessible and well-funded green spaces helps make our city a vibrant hub for businesses and families alike. Learn more: https://hubs.la/Q02Gtx6N0

Regional Win: Georgetown, Texas, recognized as the fastest-growing city in the U.S. by The Wall Street Journal, is thriving thanks to an influx of active baby boomers. This demographic boost supports local businesses, job creation, and enhances the quality of life in our region. Learn more about Georgetown's vibrant community and economic impact: https://hubs.la/Q02G7lvz0 Kudos to City of Georgetown for fostering such remarkable community growth and economic development!

Acutronic Group's new manufacturing facility in Bastrop will create significant employment opportunities and career pathways for local students through the Acutronic Apprenticeship Alliance, in collaboration with Bastrop ISD's Manufacturing P-Tech program. This initiative offers hands-on vocational training and mentorship to keep pace with the 27% manufacturing job growth our region has experienced over the last decade. “Acutronic’s investment has a wide-reaching impact throughout Central Texas, including Bastrop and Austin, setting up this region to be a competitive aerospace and defense hub,” said Edward Latson, CEO of Opportunity Austin. “Their commitment to workforce development for Bastrop ISD students creates a career pathway to good-paying jobs. Multi-faceted investments of this nature are force multipliers for our industries and economy.” Learn more about this regional win and the impact it will have on our future workforce: https://hubs.la/Q02G5nbQ0

The Austin region consistently ranks as a national leader for innovation and technology.   Home to over 400 foreign-owned companies, with foreign direct investment increasing each year, Central Texas is driving growth in key industries such as aerospace and defense, advanced manufacturing, clean tech, and life sciences.    Learn more about how our region’s competitive advantages continue to attract global businesses and emerging industries in the full Business Facilities magazine interview with Stacy Schmitt: https://lnkd.in/dG6DiNhn

Expanding the Austin Region’s Global Footprint: Opportunity Austin is thrilled to be participating in the Texas-Asia 2024 Business Mission, encompassing trips to Taiwan, South Korea, and Japan. OA CEO Edward Latson is on the mission, representing the Austin region alongside the Office of Texas Governor Greg Abbott, Texas Economic Development Corporation, and other partners from across the state to strengthen ties that will open new opportunities for investment, trade, and collaboration, especially in semiconductors and telecommunications. We look forward to forming new partnerships that will benefit both Austin and Texas. Stay tuned for more updates from this mission.

Empowering Future Tech Leaders: Opportunity Austin is proud to partner with Texas State University's TRIO summer initiative to bolster workforce development and economic prosperity in our region. Today’s sessions focused on the tech sector. Key Highlights: - Dell Technologies: Daikerra Sweat highlighted the importance of raising awareness that opportunities in tech extend beyond traditional STEM roles, encompassing HR, marketing, and community engagement. Tiffany Turner and Adrianna Seeney underscored growth opportunities, the importance of data, and the value of internships. - Hippo Insurance: Mike Griswold discussed the value of tech certifications and entry-level experience. - Fantasy Elect: Justin Schoenfelder showcased the diverse skills needed in innovative startups and the importance of soft skills. These sessions emphasized how tech is reshaping Austin's economy, creating opportunities for all. Stay tuned for more insights. To learn more about Austin's tech workforce, check out Workforce Solutions Capital Area's white paper: https://lnkd.in/gTzCjWpP

Driving Forward with Economic Adrenaline: As we enter the second half of the year, we're excited to share the Austin region's recent achievements and developments. Our latest edition of "The Surge" covers: - The Acutronic Group announcement: new manufacturing facility in Bastrop and R&D HQ in Austin. - Austin’s recognition as a leading life sciences hub. - The kickoff of TRIO summer programs with Texas State University, enhancing our talent pipeline. To learn more, read the newsletter and subscribe to stay in the loop.