Young Professionals in Seattle

Ashley Metcalf

I recently attended a Young Professional Networking Event, where a wide eyed and lively crowd mingled over cocktails and organic refreshments at a local gem called Belltown Billiards. Young Professional Network, or YPN, is funded by The Seattle Chamber to give professional development and networking opportunities to emerging leaders, ages 21-39, in the Seattle area. I was uncertain what to expect, but was immediately astounded by the enthusiasm carried by this cohort. Such feelings definitely contradict the majority of students in my upcoming graduation class, as well as my own lack of confidence in the job market. Why were they so optimistic about our economy, and conversely, why do I feel opposite? Immediately I began to research and reflect on the event, and although there is no one answer as to why certain individuals remain positive in such a downturn, there are, however, solid reasons why young professionals should remain optimistic- especially in the Seattle area.

If you venture to read through any recent articles, you will see headlines such as these gashing through the pages-Unemployment on the Rise, Obama is a Failure on the Economy, Banks Keep Rates on Hold as Economy Flags. It seems as if low consumer confidence and a stagnant labor market is all that encompasses a once prosperous nation. Quantitative easing by the Federal Reserve (the Fed purchasing U.S. Treasury securities) failed to turn around our economy and give jobs to the 7 million people that lost them. So why did these young professionals have only positive words to say, and encouragement to give?

In the eyes of these emerging leaders, Seattle remains unique for its combination of diverse high-tech sectors, cultural life, access to natural terrain, and strong university presence. The University of Washington alone employs almost 30,000 staff, with annual revenue of almost 4 billion. The Aerospace industry is a key growing industry because of Boeings presence, employing 82,000 people (7,000 engineers) statewide, with annual revenues of 32 billion. Moreover, companies such as Microsoft, Amazon and Real Networks generate annual revenues of $13.6 billion and account for a total of 186,800 ICT jobs. Seattle is also home to a plethora of fields, some include healthcare, marine technology, wineries and the defense department- all generating opportunities for young professionals to tap into.

Young Professional Networks connects more than 600 future leaders in the Seattle area, and has no membership requirements except to be active and passionate about business. The people I met were far more than passionate and active; they carried a sense of pride in their work and confidence in the future. I now realize how imperative it is that all upcoming graduates and current young professionals retain a sense of optimism- as it will secure lasting bonds with other professionals, increase opportunities, and ensure emotional stability in this volatile age.

http://www.seattle.gov/oir/datasheet/economy.htm

http://www.youngprofessionalsofseattle.com/yp/index.asp