Our Economy: Stable. Resilient.
Stable and Resilient: Two very powerful words that truly describe Wayne County’s economy. Even in the midst of one of the worst economic downturns in recent history, Wayne County has managed to weather the storm, sustaining minimal damage.
A healthy, diversified industrial base, a highly-skilled and certified workforce, and unwavering support and forward-thinking from our community leaders have combined to solidify our position as one of the most business-friendly counties in North Carolina. And we have never had a more motivated and forward-driven economic development team committed to ensuring Wayne County is strategically positioned for growth when the fog of economic instability begins to lift.
The diversity of industry within Wayne County has been instrumental in the stability of our economy. There are over 75 companies that call Wayne County home, including several international firms and privately held companies, some of which consistently rank among North Carolina’s top 100. Many of the products in our homes, in our vehicles, on convenience store shelves and anywhere in between are either manufactured in or distributed from right here in Wayne County. Even in the midst of economic adversity, businesses and industries managed to create 690 new jobs and pump nearly $32 million of new investment into Wayne County in 2008.
Striking the perfect balance between retention and recruitment efforts is key to establishing and maintaining a healthy economic base. This means that business and industry in Wayne County can be assured that they will be supported 100%, from the initial stages of recruitment to continued support long after the deal is done.
Faced with an unavoidable side-effect of an economic downturn, that being job loss, the resilience of Wayne County and its most valuable asset, its people, is evidenced by the development and success of the WORKS initiative. A qualified and Career Certified workforce sets Wayne County apart from any other county in the state of North Carolina.
Unique in its vision and design, WORKS (Wayne Occupational Readiness Keys for Success) is a partnership among economic, education, and workforce development stakeholders in Wayne County and a shining example of how this eastern NC county has come together to ensure that our workforce will meet the demands of the changing marketplace and thrive in a knowledge and skills-based global economy. Wayne County ranks #1 in North Carolina for the number of Career Readiness Certificates awarded, which is a true testament to our success in supplying the best and most qualified workforce possible.
Wayne County, North Carolina has it right: matching the demands of business and industry to the needs of the community equals stability. And instead of rolling with the recessional punches, Wayne County has taken its place as a leader in workforce development in North Carolina, demonstrating the resilient nature of our community and our people.
WCDA, Inc.
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