While job growth is seen as the primary function of an economic development office, it is not possible to recruit employers without a strong pipeline of skilled employees to fill available jobs. This puts economic developers in the role of supporting an environment and education system that produces and attracts a talented young workforce. One of the many ways that Enid supports our talented young workers is through the Enid Young Professionals organization.
Enid Young Professionals (EYP) is an organization whose mission is to attract and retain young people in Enid and to foster the next generation of leaders in the community. EYP offers opportunities for professional development, community service, civic engagement, and networking through their regularly scheduled events. EYP also recognizes outstanding young professionals in the community through their annual 10 Under 40 Awards. Since forming in 2010, many who have been involved with EYP have gone on to be top leaders in their workplace, to serve on non-profit boards, and to make lasting impacts in the community.
As a small metropolitan community, Enid is just the right size to give people a diverse set of activities, while being small enough to provide everyone an opportunity to make a difference. Over the past few years, Enid has made great strides in becoming a desirable location for young professionals through good-paying jobs, affordability, and quality of life initiatives. If we are to continue to grow Enid by recruiting high paying jobs, it is vital to provide a quality of life that attracts young talent and keeps them in our community.
If you or someone you know wants to get involved with the Enid Young Professionals or would like to be a mentor to young professionals, visit their website at www.enidyp.com or follow them on Facebook “Enid Young Professionals” or Instagram “@enidyoungprofessionals.”