2025 Regional Economic Forecast & Innovation EXPO RECAP
Mason County, WA – December 5, 2025 – Yesterday Mason County joined Thurston, Lewis, Grays Harbor, and Pacific County to co host the 2025 Regional Economic Forecast and Innovation EXPO at the Great Wolf Lodge in Grand Mound. The day opened with a meaningful cultural acknowledgement and blessing from the Chehalis Tribe Canoe Family, setting the tone for a program centered on partnership and regional impact. Lieutenant Governor Denny Heck followed with an opening keynote focused on Washington’s rapidly shifting economic landscape. He emphasized how housing pressures, workforce trends, clean energy investment, permitting, and the realities of doing business in a high growth region are shaping what comes next for communities like ours. He also spoke to how state policy, regional collaboration, and local leadership can translate into new jobs, attainable housing, and stronger main streets.
The morning continued with a Tribal Enterprise Panel featuring Chehalis Tribal Enterprises, Quinault Corporate Enterprises, and Island Enterprises Inc., a major employer in Mason County. Panelists highlighted the role Tribal Nations play as economic engines for the region, driving long term investment, employment, and diversification. From there, attendees moved into breakout sessions. We opted into the conversation on AI and the Future of Work, which centered on how artificial intelligence is transforming workforce systems, improving efficiency, and enhancing employee wellbeing rather than eliminating jobs outright. We also heard updates in the Future of Energy discussion before connecting with exhibitors representing a wide range of regional resource partners.
During lunch, economist Bill Conerly delivered a detailed look at national and regional economic conditions, offering practical insight into inflation, interest rates, consumer behavior, and what local employers can expect next. In the afternoon we attended “From Students to Founders,” a workshop led by Omey Nandyal and Soumam Debgupta featuring their Spark Creation Model that helps college students become entrepreneurs. The Washington State Department of Commerce’s Assistant Director Andrea Chartok then provided a brief update on Commerce priorities and statewide initiatives.
A standout moment in the program was the announcement of the 2025 Nancie Payne Workplace Excellence Award. This year’s recipient is Mason County’s own Lynch Creek Farm. The award honors the legacy of Nancie Payne, a nationally respected leader in workforce development, adult learning, organizational advancement, and human resources. It recognizes organizations that demonstrate meaningful employee engagement, strong workplace culture, and a commitment to progressive business practices that support long term success. Lynch Creek Farm’s selection reflects the company’s investment in its workforce and its dedication to fostering a positive, high performing environment. Their recognition brings well deserved regional attention to the quality of employers located here in Mason County.
We also want to acknowledge the Mason County leaders who contributed to the day’s discussions and represented our community on regional panels, including Sheila Corson, Public Information Officer for Mason County PUD 3, Joe Schmit, Executive Director of MACECOM, and Tracie Schmitt, General Manager at The Ridge Motorsports Park.
