Posts by Santa Barbara South Coast Chamber of Commerce

Join us on May 13 for a Paid Work Experience Information Session. In partnership with the Workforce Development Board (WDB), and the Santa Maria Chamber, this free program offers businesses the opportunity to provide 300 hours of work for second-chance hires with all wages and liability covered. Attend the session to learn how you can…

The Chamber is excited to introduce Dr. Erika Endrijonas, our newest board member! Dr. Endrijonas is a dedicated educator and leader currently serving as the Superintendent/President of Santa Barbara City College. With extensive experience in higher education, she is passionate about fostering academic excellence and supporting student success. Dr. Endrijonas has held various academic roles,…

​The Chamber is honored to announce that we have been awarded a grant from the Uplift Central Coast Catalyst Program for our project, “Precision Manufacturing Career Pathways for All.” This initiative will connect industry mentors with K-14 Career Technical Education (CTE) classrooms across San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, and Ventura Counties, providing students with direct…

This week Carpinteria City Council passed a proclamation designating April 2025 as “Carpinteria Business Month.” This annual observance celebrates the invaluable contributions of local businesses to the community’s economy and culture. Kristen Miller, President & CEO of the Santa Barbara South Coast Chamber of Commerce, was present, along with Dustin Hoiseth, the Chamber’s Director of…

The Chamber is excited to introduce you to Lindsay Cortina, our newest board member! Lindsay is a strategic healthcare leader with a proven ability to drive growth, solve complex challenges, and lead high-performing cross-functional teams. As Vice President of Strategy & Business Development at Sutter Health’s Greater Central Coast Division, she spearheads initiatives that expand…

Last week, the Chamber hosted another Tech Roundtable, bringing together employers and industry leaders from the tech and manufacturing sectors. The event focused on connecting employers with valuable resources to support talent development, improve workforce retention, and address ongoing workforce challenges. A highlight of the event was a presentation by the Santa Barbara County Workforce…

The Chamber is excited to spotlight 2025 new board member, Teddy Cabugos, President of Sunstone Winery! Teddy is the passionate leader behind Sunstone Winery, where he combines his love for wine with a commitment to sustainability and community. With a wealth of experience in the wine industry, Teddy has been instrumental in Sunstone’s growth and…

Check out the special feature on the State Street Visitor Center in the South Coast Chamber of Commerce magazine! Nestled in the heart of downtown Santa Barbara, this center offers more than just information—it’s a true experience. Since opening in 2019, it has become a hub for hospitality, helping visitors discover the essence of the…

Dear Members,  Many of you have shared your thoughts and concerns about recent immigration issues and their effects on our businesses, workforce, and broader community. These conversations have been candid, heartfelt, and deeply personal. You, our members, have shared recent experiences and situations that are having a direct and profound effect on our workforce, our…