Brad Kemp is director of regional research at Beacon Economics. A well-known expert on California labor markets, Mr. Kemp has amassed singular expertise in the collection, reliability, and applicability of labor market statistics in the state. At Beacon, he specializes in working with clients to define their research questions and deliver customized analyses that meet individual needs. With a keen understanding of the state’s regional diversity, he develops and authors Beacon Economics’ Regional Intelligence Reports, customized research briefs that help local leaders understand the key components, trends, and emerging issues facing their regional economies. A sought after speaker, Mr. Kemp regularly presents on the economic conditions that affect local markets at conferences and meetings across the state. He is known for his ability to explain complex economic concepts - including the events that have lead to the current downturn - in easy-to-understand and entertaining language. He is a trusted media source and is widely quoted in major California dailies such as the Los Angeles Times and The Press Enterprise, and on radio and television in Southern California. Prior to joining Beacon Economics, Mr. Kemp was a labor research analyst for the California Employment Development Department (EDD). During his years at EDD, he focused on the greater Los Angeles region, and was instrumental in helping leaders, workforce/economic development officials, and city planners use statistics to make better-informed choices and develop effective labor market strategies. He was responsible for releasing the monthly employment estimates and unemployment rate for Los Angeles County, and worked on special reports that detailed the effects of major events, such as the Southern California wildfires, on regional labor markets. Mr. Kemp is a veteran who served with distinction for six years in the U.S. Navy, where he focused on electronics, computers, and weapons systems. He graduated at the top of his class in each of the Naval schools he attended, and developed discipline, leadership, and attention to detail while serving his country. He received his B.A. in Communication from the University of Delaware.