Oregon Labor Summit Remarks

Good morning, all. 

It’s great to be here with you all today. The Labor Summit is all about connecting Oregon’s businesses with one of Oregon's most reliable talent pipelines. Labor leaders, educators, and employers: I’m pleased you were able to see firsthand what Guard members offer. Beyond supporting careers and filling critical workforce gaps, we are proving that serving your country and building your future aren't separate paths: they're part of the same mission. Employers are essential to this mission. 

In regards to the news we’ve seen coming out of the federal government over the past couple of weeks, I want to be clear: my intent is to return soldiers home to their families and place of business as soon as possible.

I am also committed to de-escalation strategies that honor the right to peaceful protests, while maintaining the safety of all parties engaging by holding those violating the law accountable. 

The Guard invests millions in training our service members in aviation, engineering, IT, and advanced technical fields. They earn industry certifications and hands-on experience with cutting-edge technology. When they clock out from Guard duty, they bring those same skills to your companies and classrooms. 

Our National Guard members don't just defend Oregon—they build it. They maintain aircraft, secure our networks, repair critical infrastructure, and drive innovation across our economy. Businesses that hire Guard members hire employees who lead teams, solve complex problems, and deliver results under intense pressure.

These men and women stand ready to respond when wildfires rage, floods strike, or our nation calls. Then they return to your workplaces, bringing unmatched discipline, adaptability, and technical expertise. They defend our state, then they build it. It is a wonderful expression of a more perfect union and without your partnership - this could not exist.

To our Guard Members here today - as always - thank you for your service to the State and Country.