“California Competes has worked with decision makers across the state to identify practical ways of making California’s higher education system better serve every individual—and our state as a whole. The Board and I are excited to further this work and make California more economically competitive as well as more equitable and inclusive.”

“ California Competes brings deep expertise, thought leadership, and a strong commitment to equity to its work strengthening California’s postsecondary ecosystem. EDGE values California Competes as a trusted partner that centers students, advances shared prosperity, and helps build an inclusive and resilient economy for our state.”

“California Competes provides a bridge between education and a career, through research, analysis, and real-time collaboration with educational partners and employers. Their relationships with leaders across multiple sectors are continually improving the workforce pipeline and economy in California."

“Over the years, California Competes has established itself as a credible voice in Sacramento higher education policy circles. Always informed, they match insightful data analysis and policy expertise with a deep commitment to equity and authentic multi-stakeholder engagement.”

“California needs civic and business leadership that could help set a direction that serves the communities and residents of the state, not just the institutions. California Competes has taken on that critically important role.”

“ California Competes brings trusted field leadership to higher education and workforce policy by grounding advocacy in credible research and a deep understanding of implementation. From centering student parents to improving the state's data systems, their work helps make California’s postsecondary education systems and the economy fairer and more responsive.”

“ California Competes has been an instrumental partner to TICAS in advancing key changes to state financial aid programs to ensure they support more equitable and affordable access to quality postsecondary credentials. We look forward to continuing our strong partnership to put higher education within closer reach for all Californians.”

“ For fifteen years, California Competes has brought clarity, evidence, and equity to California’s postsecondary education and workforce conversations and decisions. Their work has expanded opportunity for learners and families across California, and I’m excited to see how their leadership continues to move our state forward.”

“ Congratulations to California Competes on 15 years of shaping a stronger, more connected future for California’s learners and workforce. Their research has helped illuminate pathways between education and opportunity, guiding system-level change, including within the California Community Colleges. As we built our Vision 2030, their insights about the number of California adults without a college degree grounded our work in data, and strengthened our focus on learners balancing work, education, and family. Their work continues to be a valuable guide as we work to build a more inclusive pathway to success.”