Hundreds of guests will gather Thursday for the Greater San Marcos Partnership’s Economic Outlook event, an annual event aimed at educating residents about business trends.

“It’s one of the top regional events every year,” said Adriana Cruz, president of the Greater San Marcos Partnership. “It’s great discussion and great opportunity to get together and think about what’s in store for our economy.”

Cruz said the Economic Outlook is the organization’s signature event and offers a chance to learn about the future of the regional economy. In past years, the event has focused on the area’s rapid population growth.

“This year, we wanted to try a slightly different approach and talk about our workforce,” Cruz said. “We have a great workforce here, one that’s recognized as a wonderful talent pool.”

The speakers will examine national trends and best practices in workforce development, she said. Keynote speaker Shabaka Gibson, senior vice president of Ady Advantage, will share the national perspective, and a panel of regional workforce experts will outline what is occurring more locally.

Speakers and panel members participating include San Marcos Mayor John Thomaides; David Case, Wells Fargo vice president of business banking; and representatives from Texas State University, Austin Community College and the Texas Workforce Commission.

“[The Greater San Marcos Partnership] wants to make sure our residents are prepared for the jobs of the future,” Cruz said.

The event begins at 11 a.m. May 18 at Embassy Suites by Hilton San Marcos Hotel Conference Center & Spa, 1001 East McCarty Lane, San Marcos. Tickets are available here.