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BDI Publishes Workforce Campaign Report

For Immediate Release

 BDI Publishes Workforce Campaign Report

 Research Gauges Perceptions of Students, Parents and Millennials Toward Job Opportunities

  BURKE COUNTY, N.C. (December 16, 2016) – Burke Development, Inc. (BDI) has published a report from the first phase of its workforce marketing campaign, which evaluates the perceptions citizens have of the job opportunities available in Burke County. Research was gathered from 10 focus groups, as well as interviews and surveys with over 260 students, parents, employers and millennials. The full, 15-page report, an overview presentation and survey results can be accessed on BDI’s website at www.burkedevinc.com/workforcemarketingcampaign. The information details the current attitudes of students, parents and millennials toward Burke County jobs, specifically manufacturing and healthcare related positions. It also evaluates the communications channels that are most effective in reaching these audiences and the key messages that will best change their attitudes. BDI embarked on the campaign, in partnership with Western Piedmont Community College and Burke County Public Schools, because many existing companies are struggling to find and retain employees. This is especially true in manufacturing. According to NCWorks Burke Career Center Manager Chuck Brown, during the second week of December the office had approximately 300 vacancies in Burke County and over one-third of those were for manufacturing occupations. This is despite the fact that manufacturing companies typically offer higher than average wages and employee benefits. BDI President Alan Wood expressed the need for the campaign, “We want to expose young people and their parents to the jobs available and also demonstrate the path a student should take to pursue a career in these fields. There are well-paying jobs that offer opportunities for advancement right here in Burke County.” Dr. Michael Helmick, President of Western Piedmont Community College, agreed, “It is important to note that while those jobs are unfilled the education and training to prepare for those jobs is available at Western Piedmont Community College. The cost is incredibly low and sometimes even free. I hope with the advent of this new awareness campaign we can provide information that will change attitudes about education and employment in our area.” With the research phase complete BDI will move forward with implementing the campaign, which will require participation from community organizations, private sector employers, foundations and public sector supporters. Next steps include the finalization of a comprehensive communications plan, creation of branding and development of an annual budget for the campaign, which is a long-term, five-year strategy.   About Burke Development, Inc. Burke Development, Inc. (BDI) is a nonprofit economic development organization supported by private and public funding that supports and promotes the development of jobs, investment and wealth in Burke County. BDI works with industry leaders, site selection consultants, government agencies and other entities to facilitate expansion strategies for existing businesses and recruit target industries to Burke County. For more information about BDI visit www.BurkeDevInc.com.

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 Contact: Alan Wood 828.764.1818


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