> Competitive Realities
> Stakeholder Input Process
> Target Business Analysis
> Consensus Community Strategy
> Implementation Plan
Target Business Analysis
The Target Business Analysis identified the primary business
sectors that have the highest probability of success in Caldwell
County. Traditional job opportunities in manufacturing that
provided the community with stability and vitality for generations
has declined due to lower costs overseas. At the same time,
new opportunities have appeared in services and technology based
business sectors. However, the demands of occupations in
these sectors (education and skills needed) are quite higher than
in the technical trades.
While there have been significant challenges, Caldwell County
also has many assets it can use to leverage economic growth
and diversification. These include:
- A strong quality of life and beautiful natural resources with
the proven ability to attract families and retirees from high-cost
markets in Virginia, Florida, New York, and California.
- An experienced
manufacturing workforce.
- World-class workforce development resources
at Caldwell Community College & Technical Institute with
programming for high school students, young adults, professionals,
and displaced workers.
- K-12 schools with consistently strong
student performance despite a large increase in the percentage
of economically disadvantaged students.
- Easy interstate access
and improved transportation infrastructure with the construction
of a new transload facility.
- A highly regarded hospital
with several specialty care areas.
- Close proximity to Hickory-Catawba
County, a population and jobs center which is experiencing growth.
Market Street identified the following as the most promising
target clusters for Caldwell 20/20 and its partners to pursue. Ultimately,
these targets were selected because they provide job opportunities
for a wide range of income and skill levels and contribute to a
stronger, more diversified local economy.
- Advanced Manufacturing
- Logistics
- Health Care
- Corporate, Professional, and Data Services
Two special opportunity areas that bring benefits to the local economy
were identified as well. Retiree Attraction and Green
Industries should be pursued with the understanding that
both can enhance local vitality.
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