Jay Tucker

Tech or Bust: Maintaining California's Edge in the Workforce

Patt Morrison, Marcie Jastrow, Shawn Layden, Tobias Sherman, Jay Tucker, Jeff Wong

A panel discussion highlighted how California's dominance in video games and film is eroding due to global competitors offering superior financial incentives and the state's high cost of living driving talent away. Experts emphasized an urgent need to address critical infrastructure gaps and a finite labor shortage by expanding early education initiatives and diversifying recruitment beyond traditional tech hubs. Recommendations include establishing integrated academies to teach adaptable skills, fostering inclusive internships for underserved communities, and leveraging virtual reality to sustain future industry growth.