SCVEDC’s 2025 Annual Report: A Year of Growth, Partnership, and Progress

Economic growth in 2025 did not come easily.

 

Across California, job creation slowed. Companies right-sized operations. Artificial intelligence reshaped workforce needs. Expansion decisions faced new scrutiny amid national uncertainty.

 

In our annual Economic Outlook Book last September, the California Economic Forecast projected that just 164 net new jobs would be created for the Santa Clarita Valley in 2025.

 

Instead, the SCV added 896 net jobs, 732 more than projected, due to the expansion and retention of several companies in the valley.

 

That outcome was not accidental.

 

"Economic development is truly a team effort, and the collaboration between the City, our strategic partners, and our business community is what allows Santa Clarita to remain competitive,” said SCVEDC President & CEO Ondré Seltzer. "Our role is straightforward: helping companies evaluate Santa Clarita as a place to start, grow, or relocate their operations, while supporting the businesses already here."

 

On March 10, the Santa Clarita Valley Economic Development Corporation (SCVEDC) presented its 2025 Annual Report to the City of Santa Clarita, outlining how strategic coordination between business, local government, Los Angeles County, educators, and private industry produced measurable economic results in a challenging climate.

 

What follows is a closer look at economic development in action.

 

Access the presentation slides and a recording of the presentation and City Council Q&A here, and continue reading below for additional details.

 

         

 

 

Business Attraction, Retention & Expansion

Behind each expansion, relocation, or workforce initiative is coordination between businesses, commercial brokers, local government, and regional partners. SCVEDC serves as the connector in this process—helping companies navigate site selection, permitting, workforce resources, and economic data so projects can move forward efficiently.

 

“When companies succeed in the Santa Clarita Valley, it creates jobs for residents, drives investment in the community, and strengthens the long-term stability of our local economy," Seltzer explained.

 

 

In 2025, SCVEDC supported over 19 companies across attraction, retention, and expansion efforts, resulting in:

• 896 jobs attracted, retained, or expanded
• 44 active assistance projects
• 90% of activity within target industry clusters
• 1,866 jobs in the forward pipeline

While statewide forecasts signaled modest growth, the SCV significantly outperformed expectations.

 

Just as important is what comes next. As of the end of 2025, SCVEDC had approximately 1,866 jobs in the active business pipeline through ongoing attraction, retention, and expansion efforts. Early activity in 2026 suggests momentum is continuing, with the pipeline expanding to roughly 4,000 potential jobs across projects under consideration.

 

“These projects represent companies actively evaluating the Santa Clarita Valley for expansion or relocation,” Seltzer said. “It’s a strong signal that the region continues to attract interest from growing industries.”

 

The companies highlighted below represent some of the most significant attraction, retention, and expansion projects supported by SCVEDC in 2025.

 

 

Major Business Wins of 2025

Rather than broad trends, 2025 was defined by specific, high-impact projects.

 

Boston Scientific — 650 Jobs Retained

Boston Scientific’s agreement to acquire Valencia Technologies and relocate operations into the former Scorpion building marked one of the most significant life sciences transitions in the region this year. The move preserves high-quality medical device jobs while positioning the SCV as a long-term hub for neuromodulation and advanced healthcare innovation.

 

This project required coordination between commercial brokers, property ownership, the City, the County, and the SCVEDC, to ensure a smooth transition and continuity of operations.

 

“This was a great example of how economic development isn’t just about attracting new companies—it’s also about supporting and retaining the businesses that are already part of the Santa Clarita Valley,” Seltzer explained.

 

ASC Process Systems — 276 Jobs Retained/Expanded

ASC Process Systems expanded its footprint in Santa Clarita with an additional 64,732-square-foot lease, supporting continued production and long-term employment. The company retained and expanded 276 jobs as part of the expansion.

 

ASC is the world’s leading manufacturer of aerospace autoclaves used to cure composite materials for aircraft, spacecraft, and advanced defense systems. Their continued investment reinforces the SCV’s role as a major hub for aerospace manufacturing and engineering.

 

Logix Federal Credit Union

Logix Federal Credit Union emerged as one of the valley’s standout growth stories this year. The company expanded its workforce by approximately 25%, adding about 170 positions, making it the largest employment increase among companies in the region.

 

As one of the SCV’s leading financial institutions, Logix’s expansion highlights the valley’s growing role as a regional headquarters hub for financial services and corporate operations.

 

Woodward HRT — 49 Jobs Expanded

Woodward HRT, a major aerospace systems manufacturer headquartered in Valencia, added 49 new jobs in the Santa Clarita Valley in 2025. As a key supplier of motion control systems used in commercial and military aircraft platforms, Woodward plays an important role in the region’s aerospace supply chain.

 

Growth from established aerospace employers like Woodward highlights the strength of the SCV’s aerospace ecosystem—where precision manufacturers, engineering firms, and advanced suppliers operate in close proximity, supporting global aerospace and defense programs.

 

Element U.S. Space & Defense — 20+ Jobs Expanded

Element U.S. Space & Defense opened a new space simulator facility in Santa Clarita in 2025, expanding testing and engineering services for agencies including NASA and the Department of Defense. Their investment strengthens the region’s aerospace and defense footprint and reinforces the SCV’s role in supporting next-generation aerospace systems.

 

DrinkPAK Expansion

DrinkPAK continued scaling its footprint in the SCV with the lease of a new 172,843-square-foot facility, further expanding one of the region’s fastest-growing beverage manufacturing operations. The expansion supports ongoing job creation and reinforces the SCV as a competitive industrial market with modern facilities and workforce availability.

 

 

Additional Retention & Expansion Projects

While headline projects capture attention, much of the SCV’s economic strength comes from the steady growth of companies already operating here. In 2025, a number of employers expanded their workforce to meet increasing demand:

• Shield Healthcare, a medical supplies company, expanded its workforce by 26% as it grew operations in Valencia.
• Vallarta Supermarkets added 48 employees across its three stores and corporate headquarters, bringing its total local workforce to nearly 500 employees.
• Local McDonald’s restaurants increased employment by 18%, adding dozens of workers as demand grew at their newest location off Railroad Avenue.

Even within the public service sector, growth was notable: half of the valley’s 13 largest public service employers increased headcount in 2025, reflecting population growth and rising demand for essential services.

 

Together, these gains illustrate the broad-based nature of the valley’s economy. From aerospace engineering and medical technology to retail, logistics, and financial services, employers across industries continue to invest in the region and expand their workforce.

 

 

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Workforce Development Initiatives

“Business growth ultimately depends on access to talent, which is why workforce partnerships remain such an important part of our strategy,” said Seltzer. 

 

Workforce development in 2025 centered on alignment. Employers did not simply need more applicants—they needed the right skills, faster hiring pipelines, and clearer coordination between education and industry.

 

High Roads Training Partnership (HRTP)

Workforce development was one of SCVEDC’s most active priorities in 2025, as employers across industries continued navigating hiring challenges, shifting skill needs, and evolving workforce expectations.

 

One of the most important workforce initiatives this year was the completion of SCVEDC’s High Roads Training Partnership (HRTP) project—a comprehensive effort to better align workforce training with the real needs of local employers.

 

The HRTP initiative brought together employers, workforce agencies, and education partners to examine where skill gaps exist in key industries and how training programs can better prepare workers for those roles.

 

The findings provided a clearer picture of how Santa Clarita Valley businesses are evolving—particularly in advanced manufacturing, aerospace, and other technical sectors where specialized skills are increasingly in demand.

 

More importantly, the project created a roadmap for action.

 

The insights from HRTP are now helping guide conversations between employers, workforce agencies, and training institutions, ensuring that workforce development efforts focus on the skills businesses are actively seeking.

 

For employers, that means stronger talent pipelines. For workers, it means training that leads directly to career opportunities. And for the region, it strengthens the long-term competitiveness of the SCV economy.

 

 

SCV Job Board

The SCV Job Board continued serving as a free, centralized hiring platform connecting local employers and job seekers. In 2025:

• 31 new employers were added to the platform
• 339 new job postings were added
• 1,057 new applicants joined the platform

Most importantly, the SCV exceeded projected job growth by 732 jobs above forecast, demonstrating that workforce alignment efforts translated into measurable employment gains.

 

The platform continues reducing commuter leakage and strengthening local employer retention by helping residents find opportunity closer to home.

 

Regional Job Fairs

SCVEDC hosted both Spring and Fall Job Fairs in partnership with workforce and education partners. These events:

• Brought together 80+ employers per fair
• Attracted 900+ job seekers per fair
• Created direct hiring pathways for industries ranging from healthcare to manufacturing

The next SCV Job Fair is scheduled for April, continuing momentum into 2026.

 

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Economic Information & Research

Reliable economic information is essential for informed decision-making — particularly during periods of economic uncertainty.

 

SCVEDC serves as the Santa Clarita Valley’s central hub for economic intelligence, providing businesses, investors, and policymakers with timely data about the region’s performance and outlook.

 

2025 Economic Outlook Conference

Each year, SCVEDC’s 2025 Economic Outlook Conference brings together business leaders, developers, brokers, and public officials for the most comprehensive briefing on the Santa Clarita Valley economy.

 

As the only forum dedicated specifically to SCV-focused economic intelligence, the conference provides executives with the data and context needed to make informed strategic decisions about investment, hiring, and expansion in the year ahead.

 

The 2025 conference featured a keynote economic forecast from Dr. Mark Schniepp, Director of the California Economic Forecast. Widely recognized for his expertise in regional and national economic analysis, Dr. Schniepp provided attendees with an in-depth outlook on local, state, national, and global economic trends, helping businesses understand how broader economic forces may influence the Santa Clarita Valley economy.

 

The program also included a panel discussion with local industry leaders focused on resilience, innovation, and how companies in the Santa Clarita Valley are adapting to an evolving economic landscape.

 

As part of the event, Nate Patena, CEO of DrinkPAK and this year’s highlighted business, shared the company’s growth story and its continued investment in the Santa Clarita Valley. His remarks highlighted how the region’s infrastructure, workforce, and business-friendly environment enable companies to scale operations and plan for long-term growth.

 

By bringing together economists, industry leaders, and regional stakeholders, the Economic Outlook Conference continues to provide the insights and collaboration necessary to guide economic growth in the Santa Clarita Valley.

 

 

One-stop Resource for Economic Data

Throughout the year, SCVEDC publishes quarterly economic reports, workforce and labor market updates, and industry trend analysis that help local leaders better understand how broader economic forces are affecting the SCV economy. These insights are supported by an extensive online resource center that provides data on employment trends, industry clusters, demographics, and commercial real estate activity, as well as the SCV Means Business local podcast.

 

By making this information accessible and locally relevant, SCVEDC helps businesses make smarter decisions about expansion, hiring, and investment in the Santa Clarita Valley.

 

In uncertain markets, timely information becomes competitive infrastructure.

 

 

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Foreign Direct Investment & Global Partnerships

In 2025, SCVEDC hosted a Canadian trade delegation focused on energy storage, advanced manufacturing, and emerging technology partnerships.

 

The visit included facility tours, industry briefings, and direct meetings between Canadian firms and local business leaders. Delegates were introduced to the valley’s manufacturing ecosystem, workforce pipeline, and industrial infrastructure—all key factors companies consider when expanding into the U.S. market.

 

International engagement like this helps position the SCV as a gateway to the Los Angeles region for global companies exploring North American investment.

 

While not every trade mission results in immediate relocation, these partnerships build long-term relationships that can lead to future investment, technology collaboration, and cross-border business development.

 

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Looking Back: 15 Years of Economic Development in Action

Before looking ahead, 2025 also marked an important milestone: the 15th anniversary of the Santa Clarita Valley Economic Development Corporation.

 

Since its founding in 2010, SCVEDC has worked alongside the City of Santa Clarita, Los Angeles County, local employers, and regional partners to strengthen the valley’s economic foundation and position the region for long-term growth.

 

Over the past 15 years, those efforts have helped facilitate:

• ~24,363 jobs attracted, retained, or expanded
• ~663 companies supported
• ~174 business attraction projects completed

During that same period, the Santa Clarita Valley economy has continued to expand:

• Median household income has grown from $90,000 in 2010 to $139,000 in 2025
• The regional labor force has increased from 134,400 to approximately 150,000

These milestones reflect years of collaboration between local businesses, educational institutions, community partners, and government leaders working together to build a resilient and diversified regional economy.

 

The progress highlighted throughout this report—from new company investments to workforce initiatives—builds directly on that foundation.

 

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Looking Ahead: A Vision for Continued Growth

As we look ahead, SCVEDC remains dedicated to strengthening the economy, fostering innovation, and driving business expansion. We will continue to:

• Attract and retain high-quality businesses
• Invest in workforce development to ensure a skilled labor force
• Collaborate with city and county officials to enhance economic opportunity

“Economic development is a long-term effort. The success we’re seeing today reflects years of collaboration across the Santa Clarita Valley—and it positions the region for continued growth in the years ahead,” said Seltzer.

 

SCVEDC Partners

The success of the Santa Clarita Valley’s economy would not be possible without strong collaboration between public and private sectors.

 

The SCVEDC Board of Directors remains steadfast in its commitment to supporting economic development efforts that help the SCV remain an ideal community to livel work, and play for years to come.

 

We recognize our business leaders, community partners, and local officials who have contributed to the valley’s economic growth. Their investments and leadership have shaped a thriving and sustainable business environment.

 

A special thank you to:

• Los Angeles County
• The City of Santa Clarita
  
• SCVEDC’s Board of Directors
•  Industry partners 

2025 Board of Directors

Our valley's continued economic momentum reflects the strength of a community that works together to support business growth and opportunity. Through collaboration between industry leaders, local government, and regional partners, the SCV has built a resilient and diverse economy. The Board of Directors of the SCVEDC remains dedicated to advancing initiatives that will strengthen the region’s economy and maintain the valley as an exceptional place to live, work, and build a business.

 

We would like to thank the valuable new members who joined us in 2025:

• Troy Allen, VP, Facilities Development and Management  - CalArts

• Michael de Leon, General Manager - Centennial REC

• Raffi Kaprelyan, Sr. VP of Operations & Guest Services - Six Flags
• Jasmine Ruys, Acting Superintendent/President - College of the Canyons
  
• Holly Schroeder, VP of Organizational Strategy - DrinkPAK
  
• Natalie Yanez, Government Relations Manager  - Southern California Edison

The Santa Clarita Valley is not simply growing, but evolving with intention.

 

The investments made today will define the region’s prosperity for decades to come.

 

Economic development in action continues into 2026.

 

The Santa Clarita Valley Economic Development Corporation (SCVEDC) is a unique private / public partnership representing the united effort of regional industry and government leaders. The SCVEDC utilizes an integrated approach to attracting, retaining and expanding a diversity of businesses in the Santa Clarita Valley, especially those in key industry clusters, by offering competitive business services and other resources.