Workforce News

With an estimated impact of $27 billion, South Carolina’s automotive industry is a major driver of the state’s economy. To build on that growth and continue the advancement of the industry, the South Carolina Automotive Summit, which took place last week in Greenville, brings together top minds in the industry each year.

Community leaders, economic developers and state officials all gathered for the 30th annual S.C. Rural Summit this week hosted by the S.C.

Steel Creek Galvanizing, a fabricated steel products galvanizer, is officially open for business in Cherokee County. The company celebrated its grand opening on July 16. The $14.1 million investment created 72 new jobs.

The company announced the new operations in July of 2017.

Getronics, which specializes in improving customer business performance by implementing end-to-end information and communication technology solutions, c

In 2015, Mercedes-Benz Vans and Volvo Cars both announced the establishment of significant manufacturing operations in the Lowcountry. A milestone for the region and entire state, the announcements presented an opportunity for Team South Carolina to flex its workforce development muscles.

American entrepreneur Henry Ford once said, “If everyone is moving forward together, then success takes care of itself.” Referring to the importance of teamwork, Ford’s statement is certainly applicable to the Palmetto State. 

In the Palmetto State, we often talk about our team first approach – Team South Carolina. Nowhere is that approach more evident than in the recent collaborations between our industry leaders and our institutions of higher education. In the month of December alone, three major partnerships were announced, showcasing the unique, collaborative atmosphere that exists in South Carolina.

Hall of fame basketball coach John Wooden once said, "Winning takes talent, to repeat takes character." Over the last seven years, Team South Carolina has notched many impressive wins, exhibiting a great deal of determination and character.

Wilbur Wright of the pioneering Wright Brothers once said, "It is possible to fly without motors but not without knowledge and skill." Over the last seven years, South Carolina has developed a strong reputation as an ideal destination for business, but this didn't come about by chance or good luck. Unquestionably, one of the single biggest factors of our success has been the state's workforce.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the State of South Carolina has added approximately 40,000 manufacturing jobs since 2011, representing a Southeast-leading growth rate of 19 percent. With such a remarkable surge, some might wonder how our state has been able to accommodate the needs of an ever-expanding industrial community.