Congressman Fong Hosts United States Secretary of Labor Lori Chavez-DeRemer for Central Valley Economic Development Tour

CLOVIS, Calif. – Today, Congressman Vince Fong (CA-20) hosted United States Secretary of Labor Lori Chavez-DeRemer in the Central Valley for a series of events in support of local workers and businesses, as well as regional job development as part of Secretary Chavez-DeRemer’s America at Work tour.

“It was an honor to host Secretary Chavez-DeRemer, a proud Central Valley native, in my district today,” said Rep. Vince Fong (CA-20). “She understands firsthand our region’s vital role as the economic engine of California, and I look forward to working closely with her to advance policies that strengthen our local economy and create more opportunities for the hardworking people of the Central Valley.”

Congressman Fong and Secretary Chavez-DeRemer joined the Fresno Economic Development Corporation (EDC) for a Good Jobs Roundtable at Wawona Frozen Foods in Clovis, CA.

“We sincerely appreciate Congressman Vince Fong and U.S. Secretary of Labor Lori Chavez-DeRemer for spending time with us to discuss our Good Jobs Central Valley initiative,” said Will Oliver, CEO, Fresno County Economic Development Corporation. “Thanks to the Smittcamp family at Wawona Frozen Foods, they were introduced to employees who have advanced into new roles through Good Jobs training—showcasing real career growth in action. Through the Good Jobs Challenge, we’re demonstrating how industry-led programs deliver lasting results for both growing and new companies. It’s a model that’s working for Fresno County and the region—and positioning us for even greater growth ahead. The strong support voiced by the Congressman and the Secretary validates the importance of employer-led workforce efforts like ours.”

The ‘Good Jobs 4 The Central Valley’ program unites dozens of organizations in California’s Central Valley to place 2,500 people into high-quality jobs through demand-focused programming with 2Gen-informed, community-based recruitment and wraparound services. 

“It was great to celebrate President Trump’s first 100 days near the community I grew up in California’s Central Valley today,” Secretary Chavez-DeRemer said. “From demand-focused job training to strengthening our energy security, the Central Valley is at the cutting edge of economic development. I appreciate Congressman Fong for hosting me as I continue hearing the stories of America at Work.”

Following the roundtable, Congressman Fong and Secretary Chavez-DeRemer traveled to Bakersfield, CA, where they participated in an educational tour hosted by California Resources Corporation (CRC). CRC gave Congressman Fong and Secretary Chavez-DeRemer an in-depth review of local energy facilities and an exclusive preview of upcoming projects – an integral part in unleashing America’s energy independence.

“We were proud to host Secretary Chavez-DeRemer and Congressman Fong at our Elk Hills facilities and share CRC’s commitment to driving job creation, energy innovation, and economic opportunity here in the Central Valley,” said Francisco Leon, CRC’s President and Chief Executive Officer. “As we advance projects that support both California’s energy needs and its ambitious climate goals, partnerships like these are essential to building a stronger, more sustainable future for our communities.”

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