How Young Professionals Find Career Magic in the Magic Valley
Idaho’s Magic Valley is home to some of the largest employers in the tristate region. Agriculture, food processing, advanced manufacturing, health care, higher education, energy and outdoor recreation are among the most popular industries, and young professionals are taking note. The emerging workforce is coming to the area for the myriad career opportunities provided and the fact that a lower cost of living means they’ll be able to quickly achieve their savings goals.
According to data from the Twin Falls Area Chamber of Commerce, the per capita income in Twin Falls rose 24% over the past decade, making it one of the fastest-growing economic regions in the state.
Population in the area also has increased over the last 10 years. According to data released from the City of Twin Falls, that municipality alone has increased 20% since 2010.
Magic Valley Young Professionals: Connecting and Growing
Aaliyah Rodriguez can attest. She is the chair of the Magic Valley Young Professionals (MVYP), an initiative by the Twin Falls Area Chamber of Commerce to engage recent college grads and other adults new to the workforce.
“I would have never predicted my hometown would see a significant population increase like we’ve experienced,” Rodriguez says. “It’s a beautiful thing to see others come this way, discovering the beauty of our state.”
Rodriguez, who currently serves as the nontraditional/ adult-learner admissions coordinator for the College of Southern Idaho, says her involvement in the organization has helped her identify strengths that may give her leverage for her future career path. The group offers professional development, networking opportunities, access to leadership, and social and volunteer activities.
“I have always found myself to be a natural leader,” she says. “Magic Valley Young Professionals has pushed me out of my comfort zone as a leader; I have built stronger relationships and more.”
She says while the pandemic put a damper on available networking opportunities for herself and her peers, the region has rebounded, and she’s broadening her horizons.
“I joined Magic Valley Young Professionals back in 2020, and at the time, we were just four members, including myself,” Rodriguez says. “This year, we rebranded and have maintained 20 members. Our group continues to grow in attention and members, and we are super thankful.”
Building A Future
Contributing to the region’s astonishing 97% employment rate are major companies like ConAgra, Glanbia Nutritionals, Chobani, Clif Bar and St. Luke’s Magic Valley Medical Center. But it’s not just big brands attracting young talent to the region. Startups can also gain a foothold in the economy.
“We have a few current members that do work for an organization known as the Idaho Small Business Development Center that focuses on entrepreneurship,” Rodriguez says. “The Magic Valley is very well known for strong partnerships and appreciation for one another. Each interaction has influenced me to be a better leader, understand who I am as a young professional, and what I can do to give back to my community.”
Although still a renter, Rodriguez says she plans to take advantage of the affordable cost of home ownership in the region and find a house for herself, her husband and their child.
“We are hopeful we can purchase a home within the next two years in a community that is family-friendly,” she says. “We strive to find a home that we can raise our children in and build a future for them.”
Embarking on an Adventure
In her free time, Rodriguez says she spends lots of time in downtown Twin Falls, visiting the farmers market, attending Wednesday night concerts and patronizing her favorite local businesses, including Destino Coffee Co. in Kimberly or Twin Beans Coffee. Outdoor recreation is also a popular pastime for Rodriguez, who especially loves Box Canyon.
“Be ready to appreciate the nature of Magic Valley,” she says of new residents to her community. “Even if you are not an outdoors person, you will be once you start to discover many of our rivers, parks and other natural amenities!”
Get to Know Southern Idaho
Want to learn more about living and working in Twin Falls and Southern Idaho? Check out the latest edition of Livability Southern Idaho.