Community partnerships as a tool to reduce regional labor gaps: A South Carolina regional case study

Abstract

Twenty-first century economies may require innovative, entrepreneurial development policy, but many economically distressed communities face immediate human capital and labor market concerns that prevent them from implementing these approaches. A series of regional focus groups and interviews reveal some of the community and economic development challenges that non-metropolitan communities experience in an environment of globalization and industrial restructuring. Without addressing ongoing human capital weaknesses, these communities are at continued risk of falling further behind. This analysis underscores the importance of strong civic infrastructure and community efficacy for successful development efforts. Finally, this research discusses the potential of using regional partnerships to reduce or eliminate persistent labor supply and skill gaps in the region.

Keywords:

• community partnerships
• labor supply
• regional economic development
• rural development
• workforce development

Notes

1. www.census.gov

2. www.nces.ed.gov

3. In two counties, there is arguably only one major employer.

4. Workforce development and skills projections: Upper Savannah Council of Governments region 2000–2016; http://www.clemson.edu/uced/workforce_projections/wfsavannah.html

5. Laurens and Newberry counties border interstate 26, while Abbeville, Edgefield, Greenwood, McCormick, and Saluda counties all have poor interstate access.

6. The South Carolina 2005 EEDA and its personal pathways to success program is an example of one such program.