North Carolina Recognized as the Leader in Workforce Development Rankings by Site Selection Magazine

North Carolina Achieves Top Ranking in Workforce Development

North Carolina has been acclaimed as number one in Site Selection Magazine's annual Workforce Development Rankings, an accolade underscoring the state's robust reputation in fostering talent and attracting business investment. This ranking highlights North Carolina's commitment to building a workforce that meets the evolving needs of various industries.

The Significance of Workforce Development

Site Selection Magazine is a respected publication that serves corporate real estate executives and economic development professionals across the globe. Its annual rankings assess states based on essential criteria such as workforce readiness, training capacity, and the quality of labor. The rankings play a critical role for businesses contemplating location and expansion decisions, making North Carolina's top position even more noteworthy.

Central to this success is the North Carolina Community College System (NCCCS), which consists of 58 colleges serving every county within the state. Through various innovative programs, such as NCEdge Customized Training and ApprenticeshipNC, the NCCCS collaborates closely with employers to deliver tailored training, addressing specific industry needs and supporting overall economic growth.

A Strong Workforce Ecosystem

According to Dr. Jeff Cox, president of NCCCS, this recognition is a testament to the first-hand experiences of companies that choose to establish or expand their operations in North Carolina. He notes, "Our workforce development model incorporates strong partnerships, local responsiveness, and a clear focus on employer needs, giving North Carolina a decisive advantage in the competitive landscape."

John Loyack, Vice President of Economic Development for NCCCS, elaborated on the importance of the community colleges as strategic partners to various industries. "Our colleges operate at the intersection of education and economic development," Loyack stated. "We work side by side with employers to tackle real workforce challenges, whether it involves launching a new facility, implementing advanced technologies, or enhancing the skills of an existing workforce."

Crucial to this ecosystem is the customized training program, NCEdge, which has successfully trained over 100,000 North Carolinians since its inception. This initiative enables individuals to enhance their skills and embrace new technologies, thereby boosting their productivity and employability. Such training initiatives have proven vital in facilitating job creation and economic growth across the state.

In the 2024-25 fiscal year alone, NCEdge supported 319 workforce development projects that catered to approximately 850 companies. Major partnerships, including those with innovative firms like JetZero and Genentech, have resulted in the creation of nearly 16,000 new jobs and contributed $16 billion in capital investment.

A Focus on Comprehensive Workforce Solutions

In addition to customized training, NCCCS offers a comprehensive array of workforce solutions that benefit employers in all industries. Programs such as ApprenticeshipNC expand registered apprenticeships across the state by integrating paid, on-the-job training with classroom instruction, thus enhancing talent pipelines and improving retention rates.

The Small Business Center Network provides essential counseling, training, and access-to-capital resources for entrepreneurs and small businesses, driving job creation and local economic growth. Furthermore, the BioNetwork initiative delivers specialized training and biomanufacturing support for the life sciences sector, enhancing the workforce's capabilities in one of the most vital industries today.

Conclusion

Together, these initiatives form an integrated workforce development model that promotes economic growth throughout North Carolina. The state's ranking in Site Selection’s annual Workforce Development Rankings not only reflects its ability to align education with industry needs but also signifies its commitment to cultivating a resilient workforce that can adapt to the demands of an ever-evolving economy. The North Carolina Community College System continues to be a pivotal force in shaping the future of the state's workforce, ensuring that it remains a leading destination for business investment and growth.

For more details on the programs offered by the North Carolina Community College System, visit NCCCS Economic Development.