Tampa Bay Times and Foundation for a Healthy St. Pete Host Free Community Discussion on Regional Economic Future

Tampa residents can attend a free community discussion on the future of the regional economy and workforce preparation next week. The Tampa Bay Times and the Foundation for a Healthy St. Petersburg will co-host the event on Thursday, September 23, at the Center for Health Equity.

The discussion will feature a panel of local experts. They will explore the impact of evolving industries, technology, and rising costs on the Tampa Bay area. A key discussion point will be artificial intelligence's influence on the population and marketplace over the next decade.

Kanika Tomalin, president and CEO of the Foundation for a Healthy St. Petersburg, emphasized the connection between economic stability and health. She stated, "Economic stability has a huge impact on our health, so we must be intentional in planning for our community’s economic future in ways that consider all of our residents — especially the most vulnerable among us."

Conan Gallaty, Times CEO and chairman, highlighted the importance of current decisions in shaping the future. "Tampa Bay’s economic successes and challenges today stem from decisions made years ago," Gallaty said. "The next decade will be shaped by the choices we make now, which is why this conversation is so important."

The event aims to inform choices made now to shape Tampa Bay's economic future. Community groups such as Junior Achievement of Tampa Bay, St. Pete College, USF Bellini College of AI & Cybersecurity, and the Tampa Bay Times Newspapers in Education will be present.

The Spotlight Tampa Bay discussion takes place at 2333 34th St. S. Attendees can sign up to receive a free ticket.