At Choose Folsom, we exist to strengthen our community’s economic fabric. We do this by providing businesses with the tools and resources they need to thrive and by shining a spotlight on the success stories that inspire us all. There’s no shortage of both this month.
Folsom robotics teams head to world championships:It’s no secret that Folsom’s schools rank among the best in the Sacramento region, but it’s always worth celebrating student successes.
Not one, but two Folsom robotics teams are heading to world championships after outperforming other teams at state regional competitions. Kudos to Team COGNITAUR 29712C for qualifying for the VEX Robotics World Championship in Missouri and Team Juice 16236 for making it to the 2026 FIRST Tech Challenge World Championships in Texas.
Both teams are composed of local students from our middle and high schools, some of whom have represented Folsom in previous international competitions. I’m looking forward to both competitions, as I know our students will shine.
Recognizing the innovators of the Sacramento Valley Railroad
I’ve always believed that innovation is in Folsom’s DNA. The completion of the Sacramento Valley Railroad in 1856 marked a historic milestone. Not only was it the first railroad in California, but the Historic Folsom Turntable was the first of its kind in the West. This groundbreaking development was made possible by Theodore Judah, chief engineer of the Sacramento Valley Railroad and one of Folsom’s earliest innovators.
The City of Folsom recognized Judah and the city’s contribution to the Sacramento railroad legacy at a ceremony on March 4, which featured educational displays, turntable demonstrations and presentations from local historians. If you weren’t able to attend, the Folsom Times has a great series on the railroad that is worth checking out.
New event: State of the County:We’re always looking for ways to create additional value for our business community. I’m pleased to announce a new event on April 15, 2026 — the State of the County.
The event will bring together elected officials, business leaders and community partners for a dynamic conversation on the priorities, opportunities and challenges shaping Sacramento County.
Attendees will hear directly from District 4 County Supervisor Rosario Rodriguez, who will provide insights into the county’s strategic vision, key initiatives and the policies driving growth and innovation across the region.
From economic development and infrastructure to quality of life and regional collaboration, the event will offer a comprehensive perspective on what lies ahead — and how the community can work together to move Sacramento County forward.
Celebrate Folsom businesses at the annual awards event:Recognizing the Folsom business community is one of the perks of my job, and I always look forward to Choose Folsom’s Annual Awards Event.
This year’s event will take place Thursday, April 30, from 4:30 to 7 p.m. Community members are invited to join the celebration as the organization honors local business leaders and community advocates who continue to make a meaningful impact in Folsom.
Joe Gagliardi is the CEO of Choose Folsom and the Folsom Chamber of Commerce. Folsom Times is a proud Chairman’s Circle Partner with the Chamber of Commerce.
