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Mountain Area Works Highlights   Mountain Area Workforce Development Board recognizes outstanding employers, job seekers, youth and workforce partners 'It's All About Purpose': This Engineer Calls the Shots in GE's Factory for Jet Engine Ceramics Companies Hoarding Workers Could Be Good News for the Economy Industry level automation exposure in North Carolina and what it means The Workforce Behind the Workforce: North Carolina's Childcare Service Industry Throughout the Pandemic Asheville metro 3.3% unemployment rate for October 2022 Where are the workers? Survey shines light on reasons keeping people from the workforce The great mismatch: Remote jobs are in demand, but positions are drying up Employers Rethink Need for College Degrees in Tight Labor Market Labor Market Mystery: Where Are The Older Gen Z Workers? Local companies prioritize hands-on giving Pandemic Anxiety Was Higher for Teachers Than for Health-Care Workers RSV, covid and flu are keeping kids out of school - and parents out of work American workers are bummed out Survey finds poor mental health 'a real issue in the American workforce' 60% of Americans live paycheck to paycheck heading into peak shopping season $650 million Pratt & Whitney plant opens in South Asheville Youth Disconnection Declined in 2021 After Climbing During the Pandemic Where have all the workers gone? Mountain Area Workforce Development Board receives over $1.3 million to support small businesses, re-entry and substance use disorder recovery Economic development: Training the workforce, North Carolina takes a proactive approach to creating an abundant labor market Even with some energy sapped, labor market keeps powering ahead Asheville cost of living still tops in the state, while wages lag BE PRO BE PROUD NC unemployment rate rises to 3.9% - a 'negative sign' for labor market State of Our Workforce WNC survey results from 795 employers released NCWorks Career Center Asheville workshops November and December 2022 NCWorks: Work on What's Next Mountain Area Careers

Mountain Area Workforce Development Board recognizes outstanding employers, job seekers, youth and workforce partners

Recognition Luncheon Photo Album

Outstanding Employers

Jabil Inc.

Outstanding Workforce Development Partner Blue Ridge Community College/NCWorks Career Center Henderson County Shanda Bedoian, Director of Corporate and Customized Training

Jabil Healthcare, a division of Jabil Inc., the largest global manufacturing solutions provider in the healthcare industry, decided to expand its footprint in Western North Carolina by locating a new facility of over 160,000 square feet in Henderson County with an estimated investment of $60 Million USD. The Flat Rock plant will support the growing pharmaceutical industry in the diabetic treatment arena.   Jabil has become a strong collaborator with The Partnership in joining the Made in Henderson County Mechatronics Apprenticeship Program; with Blue Ridge Community College in the development of the Machining/ Tool & Die Apprenticeship Program; and, with the NCWorks Career Centers in recruiting new hires. Jabil expects to employ upwards of 200 at the Flat Rock site. To date, the team has on-boarded 47 employees and is in the process of onboarding about 20 former dislocated Continental employees.   Attracting Jabil is a huge win. It truly illustrates the importance of what our community strives for in providing a higher quality of life through great career opportunities. Jabil strategically focuses on a culture of safety, teamwork, and respect for each other’s contribution, which we can all agree on and appreciate!

New Excelsior Inc.

Outstanding Workforce Development Partner Blue Ridge Community College/NCWorks Career Center Transylvania County Shanda Bedoian, Director of Corporate and Customized Training

New Excelsior, Inc. is part of the larger Sigma Plastics Group, which is a Certified Minority-Owned Business and is a dedicated printing and packaging manufacturer in Brevard NC since 2006.   The plant boasts the widest and fastest printing presses in the world. New Excelsior continues to invest in new efficient machinery to service the United States food industry. Additionally, their training and development strategy to train personnel to become skilled printers in an advanced manufacturing flexographic environment sets them apart from other organizations. These strategies along with heightened pay scales and shift premiums position them to be very competitive in the community.   Currently, the plant employs 77 employees across 7 different shifts. Most recently, New Excelsior was thrilled to hire two dislocated Continental employees.   New Excelsior has stayed the course and adapted well in our ever-changing world, which has afforded them in being an employer of choice in Transylvania County.   On behalf of Blue Ridge Community College and the Transylvania County NCWorks Career Center, I am proud to nominate New Excelsior as the “2022 Outstanding Workforce Development Partner of the Year for Transylvania County”.

Hot Springs Health Program

Outstanding Workforce Partner AB Tech/NCWorks Career Center Madison County Stacy Peek, NCWorks Madison Coordinator

In October 1971 Hot Springs Health Program (HSHP) began providing patient care in Hot Springs with one center and 2 Nurses. The goal was to make primary healthcare available to the residents of this small rural community. Now just over 50 years later, Hot Springs Health Program operates four centers providing primary and pediatric care to the citizens of Madison County and the surrounding area. The four centers are located in Mars Hill, Marshall, Hot Springs and the Laurel community. Along with basic primary care, Hot Springs Health Program also provides Outpatient Physical Therapy, Home Health & Hospice Care, Behavioral Health, and Pharmacy Services at all four centers.   Hot Springs Health Program is dedicated to serving the primary healthcare needs of its patients through an organizational model that is oriented to and directed by the community. Their commitment to community includes: ·        A community-based Board of Directors; ·        Strong health education programs and chronic disease self-management services; ·        A patient-oriented perspective to make care affordable for patients and families in need of financial assistance; and ·        Partnering with other key healthcare and community organizations.   Celebrating their 50th anniversary in 2021, Hot Springs Health Program is one of the larger employers in Madison County with approximately130 employees. Hot Springs Health Program is a valued partner in Workforce Development, participating in job fairs, posting job openings in the ncworks.gov online system, and has a willingness to communicate with NCWorks staff regarding referrals of potential candidates.   NCWorks Madison appreciates their interest in collaborating to discuss opportunities, career pathways, and offer suggestions for job seekers interested in entering the health care field. As an example of this partnership, during the past year this collaboration led to the hiring and successful placement of a Clinical Assistant referral from the NCWorks-Madison office. Hot Springs Health Program has also visited the Nurse Aide I class at A-B Tech Madison to discuss the healthcare field and career opportunities.   Hot Springs Health Program’s dedication to the residents of Madison County and their community-centered approach makes them an invaluable resource for our area. NCWorks Madison thanks this provider for their service and commitment to the community and looks forward to their continued success in the future.

Devil's Foot Beverage Company

Outstanding WIOA Business Partner Business Accelerator Grant Program Mountain Area Regional Business Services Barbara Darby, Assistant Workforce Director/Business Services Lead

Inspiration is often fueled by a need. In 2015, one of the founders, Ben Colvin, and his wife, learned that they were expecting a child and went to celebrate with friends at an Asheville brewery. That was maybe not the best location for an expectant mother who would want a non-alcoholic drink to celebrate and get excited about their pregnancy! They quickly found that there weren’t any options for a low-sugar, non-alcoholic beverage. So, they invented one: Devil’s Foot Beverage Company was incorporated in 2016. The company manufactures farm-to-can non-alcoholic sodas. Using local, organic roots and fruits as ingredients, they brew and can beverages, utilizing craft brewing equipment and processes. Their creative business model allows for innovation and has created a niche market for low-sugar, non-alcoholic beverages boasting fresh, clean flavors. Recently they opened an event venue within the manufacturing facility as part of their business expansion.   With help from a Micro Grant awarded by NC IDEA in 2018 ($10,000) and an NC IDEA Seed Grant ($50,000) in 2019, the business was able to grow exponentially. In addition, relationships with Mountain BizWorks and the SBA have allowed them to finance equipment and have a solid financial footing. In 2021, their production had grown from 150,000 cans/year to over 500,000 cans/year. For additional space, the company relocated to the north end of the Daniels Group Building on Sweeten Creek Road. With the need to expand production, Ben ordered a high-volume, automated brewhouse and canner/packager. The equipment was delivered from overseas by freight, which was delayed over a month due to COVID-19. With added capability, Devil’s Foot is easily pushing 44cans/min. which is about 20,000 cans/week. By the end of 2022, they will crack 700,000 cans and over a million cans in 2023. .                                                                                                                                               This expansion aligned nicely with the Mountain Area Workforce Development Board’s WIOA-funded Business Accelerator Grant, which provided $10,000 to cross-train five of their employees on the new brewhouse and canner/packager. The five employees received seven days of training from two specialized training vendors from Charlotte and Colorado. These well-trained workers greatly support the business’s growth and competitiveness and provide high-value skill sets for their careers. Business is great and Devil’s Foot is expecting high trajectory growth in 2023.

Survival Innovations

Outstanding WIOA Business Partner Business Accelerator Grant Program Mountain Area Regional Business Services Barbara Darby, Assistant Workforce Director/Business Services Lead

Survival innovations, LLC, (SI) started as a three-person company in 2004 in a small facility in Arden. In 2017 they moved the entire operation down the road to their current location in Mills River. Due to growth, they opened a facility in Brevard in 2021 to isolate machining and cutting from sewing and assembly and to pursue additional labor in another area. In 2022, labor constraints in the textile industry continued to challenge growth, so they took a risk and established a satellite sewing facility in Mount Airy, NC. They were fortunate to hire an experienced sewing machine mechanic for that facility, who is available for the Mills River location, as well as capitalize on sewing with an available workforce. Currently they have 31 employees in our local area and seven employees in Mount Airy. These additional facilities will greatly support their rapid growth while continuing to satisfy existing customers.   SI provides design, development, testing, manufacturing, and support services for critical aviation life support equipment. Their customers are warfighters; and they support through contracts the Department of Defense and OEMs, such as Collins Aerospace and Boeing. They are an NSF-ISR Registered ISO 9001-2015 company and in 2012 won NAVAIR Patent of the Year for design of hardware used in military helicopters for search and rescue.   With business growth, Jason Smith saw a need to provide their CNC machinists with equipment maintenance training for their Haas machine. Machine downtime greatly impacts production and profitability. During COVID one of their machinists relocated and the company scrambled to hire another machinist and postpone the training with Philips Corporation. SI received a Business Accelerator Grant for $8,350 to train two machinists in Haas equipment maintenance. The grant provided travel reimbursement for their machinists to travel to a training site in Rock Hill, SC where they received four days of hands-on machine maintenance training in June 2022.   SI strongly believes in developing the skills of their workforce for better job performance, advancement opportunity, retention, job satisfaction, and pay increase for acquired skills. In return, the company benefits from reduced downtime, reduced expenses and increased productivity and competitiveness. As SI continues to grow, the company is working to develop the next generation of skilled maintenance supervisors and manufacturing leaders.   Per Jason, “The MAWDB has had a tremendous impact on a small business’ ability to promote growth through strength while expanding personal value and talents of individuals within our community. The funds provided in 2021 through the Incumbent Worker Grant provided training to two young machinists that immediately impacted the company’s performance with on-site, on-time maintenance avoiding machine downtime. While we hope these individuals remain with Survival Innovations for years to come, the skills and talents gained will not only remain with the trainee’s but will be part of the company culture

Outstanding NCWorks NextGen Youth Participants

Haley Pettit NCWorks NextGen Program Goodwill of Northwest NC Jordan Meeks, Youth Services Coordinator

Goodwill’s NextGen program is proud to recognize Haley Pettit as its 2022 WIOA Outstanding Participant of the Year. Haley started working with NextGen in the fall of 2021, wanting to move away from her job in food service. She was seeking assistance to earn her High School Equivalency (HSE) diploma and develop a meaningful career path for the future.   She connected with A-B Tech’s Adult Education/High School Equivalency program, becoming a motivated and determined student. With the help of Goodwill’s NextGen program, she received WIOA support to schedule her tests and earned her HSE in September.   After accomplishing her initial goal, Haley continued her strong momentum to keep moving forward. She expressed an interest in pursuing a career in the Early Childhood Education field. NCWorks NextGen helped her gather information on this career pathway. A review of training options and job outlooks ensued, and a plan developed to move her away from work in food service. Through NCWorks NextGen, Haley began a WIOA-supported paid workplace experience with St. Paul’s Preschool where she gained first-hand experience working in the field. She assisted teachers, worked with children ages 0-5, developed lesson plans, and most importantly made sure that this career pathway was the right fit for her. Haley loved the experience, and received positive praise for being patient, compassionate, and an overall wonderful teacher assistant.   As Haley gained confidence that this was the right career path for her, NextGen connected her with the Early Childhood Teacher Workforce Development Program offered by Buncombe Partnership for Children. Through this program, Haley engaged in 24-hours of pre-service training and completed the EDU 119 course offered through the community college as part of the process to achieve certification as an early childhood teacher. She was presented with an opportunity to move to full-time work at a childcare center.   Haley is now working full time at All Kid’s Academy. The NCWorks NextGen Team at Goodwill is incredibly proud of Haley for accomplishing her goals; now she’s making a positive difference in the lives of young children in our community. Congratulations, Haley, and keep up the great work. You’re an inspiration!

Adrienne Ducharme NCWorks NextGen Program Henderson County Public Schools Marisela Aguillon, WIOA Career Coach

Adrienne enrolled in the workforce program on August of 2021. She was experiencing huge barriers at the time such as being homeless and living in a car with her other 3 siblings. This left her a big responsibility to help care for her sibling while her mom tried to work which caused her to put her educational goals aside. Prior to her enrollment, Adrienne was struggling due to having inconsistent housing and ended up living in a shelter and then her family’s car. She had only minimal resources to live day to day. With her big gap in her studies she was facing a challenging road to becoming self-sufficient. She had missed most of her middle school years due to moving around so much and helping to take care of her siblings. She was struggling to find a stable place to live and this begin to affect her in all areas. To make things worse, she was separated from her family and begin to live in foster care. With the assistance of the WIOA program and other community resources, she was able to work on her goals to help escape homelessness. School administrators were able to place her on a fast track graduation plan and put her in smaller class settings. Entering back to school at the age of 17, left her to learn so much learning material that she had lost. The goal for her was to get classes knocked out through an online academic program called Edmentum. Presently, Adrienne has one semester left to graduate. She attends school daily and participates in work experience. Adrienne has remained positive the whole time aside from all her barriers and her major life changes. We are very proud of Adrienne for remaining strong in working hard to accomplishing her goals aside from the challenges that she faces daily. She has worked in the WIOA WEX program for a year and a half. Participating in WEX has allowed her to gain work experience and learn new job skills.  Over the summer, she landed a job at BonClarken Conference Center and enjoys working there after school and on the weekends. For the future, she hopes to attend Blue Ridge Community College while working in the hospitality business.  Quote from Adrienne “The program has helped me get through high school and keep my mind in the right place. I know that if I ever needed anything, I could always reach out to my career coach. Not only has this program helped me academically but also with assistance with food and clothing. I am thankful to be alive and I am enjoying life and having people around me that care about me.”

Tom White Outstanding WIOA Youth Participant On-the-Job Training (OJT) Program Mountain Area Regional Business Services Barbara Darby, Assistant Workforce Director/Business Services Lead

Tom White was a 16-year-old young man who got fidgety during COVID. With his mother’s permission he decided to obtain his GED, which he accomplished in a few months. Tom also enrolled at A-B Tech through Goodwill’s WIOA NCWorks NextGen Program and took a few courses in the trades and worked part-time in food service. He soon discovered he really liked plumbing and wanted to pursue this trade as a career.   His Goodwill NextGen Career Coach, Rachel Olson, referred him to Barbara Darby, to explore OJT opportunities. At the same time, Robert Foster, Chief Operating Officer, Virtelle Hospitality, expressed interest in hiring a youth and providing maintenance training. Tom started On-the-Job Training at Holiday Inn Biltmore West in January 2022, working under David Caulder, Corporate Chief Engineer. He worked with his trainer to remodel the employee breakroom and learned a lot about sheet rock and painting. In March 2022, his worksite became the newly opened Element Asheville Downtown. Tom’s training broadened under his supervisor, David Freund, Maintenance Engineer.    Tom’s supervisor states that “Tom has progressed a lot during his time working at Element. He has improved existing skills and developed several new ones. His day-to-day tasks primarily consist of preventive maintenance checks in guest rooms and touching up paint. He has been able to work independently on these tasks. Tom also works on more complex projects like fixing plumbing issues and troubleshooting lock and electrical issues. He has been exposed to the use of software technology in tracking components of the hotel’s sustainability program and designing and printing a critical part with a 3-D printer.   Tom is a great example of a responsible, motivated young person whose career goal is to become a licensed plumber. I am pleased to recognize him as an Outstanding WIOA Youth OJT Participant.

Outstanding NCWorks WIOA Adult and Dislocated Worker Participants

Iken Wallace Outstanding WIOA Dislocated Worker Participant On-The-Job-Training (OJT) Program Mountain Area Regional Business Services Barbara Darby, Assistant Workforce Director/Business Services Lead

Iken Wallace was challenged upon release from incarceration in 2022. He was ready to begin a new life journey and was willing and able to put in the work to become self-sufficient. He quickly got in touch with resources, Philip Cooper and Gene Ettison of Inspire. They assisted him with securing housing through Biltmore Housing, gathering documents for employment, and starting a job search. Philip referred Iken to Barbara Darby for OJT consideration as a dislocated worker. He interviewed at Plasticard Locktech International, LLC (PLI), a second-chance employer, and was offered a job through the workforce board’s On-the-job Training Program, making a living wage. He started OJT on September 1, 2022, and completed training as a lamination machine operator on November 31, 2022.   Iken was a fast learner and completed training earlier than expected. He realized he had vision issues when he could not read the test for his driver’s license.   To work safely, the workforce board’s supportive services policy paid for an eye exam and prescription   glasses along with needed work clothes. Iken got his driver’s license recently and is working to obtain a car.   For his final evaluation, Anthony Hutchins, Iken’s trainer, stated that Iken’s performance had been exceptional. Josh Hefner, Iken’s supervisor, shared that “Iken has shown a great work ethic and has been eager to learn since day one. He has adjusted very well to PLI’s production processes and has shown great communication with those around him and his lead. Overall, Iken has been a great addition to the PLI production team.”   Congratulations Iken for an impressive transition into the world of work and personal responsibility. You have demonstrated determination and I know you will achieve other goals. I am delighted to recognize you as an Outstanding On-the-Job Training participant.

Holly McBride Outstanding WIOA Dislocated Worker Participant On-The-Job-Training (OJT) Program Mountain Area Regional Business Services Barbara Darby, Assistant Workforce Director/Business Services Lead

Holly McBride had a successful career in the entertainment industry in Florida, working for the Walt Disney Company as a production manager. After moving to Asheville in 2020 she found herself struggling to find similar employment. Holly enrolled in the Back to Work 50+ Program at NCWorks-Asheville in the spring of 2021. This five-week program helped her understand the Asheville job market, how to network as a new resident, and what transitional opportunities existed. She worked with Irene Canivet, the 50+ program coordinator, to determine her career transition plan to human resources (HR). Irene referred Holly to Barbara Darby to pursue on-line training and certification in human resources.   In June of 2021, Barbara enrolled Holly in WIOA as a dislocated worker for training and certification services. She obtained her PHR (Professional in Human Resources) from the Human Resource Certification Institute in September of 2021. To gain experience in HR, Barbara referred Holly to Friday Services as a potential OJT candidate. Holly began OJT in January 2022 as a sales manager and recruiter and completed her training in June 2022. In addition, Holly was able to participate in incumbent worker sales training provided through Mountain Area Workforce Development Board’s WIOA-funded Business Accelerator Grant.    William Irving, CEO, expressed appreciation for the board’s OJT Program. “Being able to utilize the OJT program allowed us to gain an employee that otherwise we might not have considered due to the training that was required for Holly to make such a dramatic career change. Through the training program we were able to invest in Holly more heavily. She has been able to learn and grow into the role as a clerical recruiter and be proficient in both recruiting and new sales. Holly has brought a lot of business experience and maturity to the table that is often hard to find in a new recruiter as the job requires having to work with clients and understand their needs along with integrating as a new team member.”    Holly’s story is an inspiring example of how a motivated person with transferable skills along with the collaboration of workforce partners can help facilitate an individual’s career transition. Congratulations Holly for your accomplishments and for being recognized as an Outstanding On-the-Job Training participant.

Reco Mosley Outstanding WIOA Participant Dislocated Worker Program NCWorks Career Center Asheville Samantha Justice, WIOA Career Coach, AB Tech

Reco is witty, intelligent, charismatic, and driven. He's a black man with a past, a family man with dreams. He's also one of the highest paid people in the room. He went from nothing to everything within 6 months with the help of WIOA. When Reco applied for WIOA in December of 2021, I wasn't sure about him. He carried a chip on his shoulder. He seemed like he was used to being doubted, underestimated. Once he saw that WIOA is all about student success and I was on his side, he relaxed a little. I expected him to be an average CDL student. Any average CDL student is great in my book - job security, quick hiring process, nice income, employee driven industry, etc. But this one, he's anything but average. He was recently released from prison, had never traveled, and needed a lot of soft skills work. During the WIOA process, he learned how to advocate for himself in a peaceful way, completed his book work, passed all his tests with excellence, and successfully completed his behind- the- wheel driving training quickly. Reco was starting over. He was at a critical crossroad in his life. All he had on his side was drive and a passion for something more, something different and secure. He ran with it and never looked back. Reco has financial security now, making over 91,000 per year, has seen most of the US, (favors California) and has changed his life forever. He's looking forward to other business opportunities in real estate. I am so proud and happy he had the courage to start over, start from the bottom. He remains genuine, kind, and consistent.

Jennifer Keeter Outstanding Career Seeker NCWorks Career Center Henderson County Stacy Hill, HRD Employability Lab Instructor, Blue Ridge Community College

The NCWorks Career Center Team in Henderson County had the pleasure of meeting Jennifer in January of 2022. To simply say that she has inspired us would be an understatement! She has been our student, our teacher, and our friend.   Jennifer was born totally blind to a mom that she gives credit to for teaching her to be a strong-willed woman that trusts in a Higher Power and puts that trust first in all things. These same values continue to be encouraged and instilled in her by her friend, caretaker, biggest fan, and cheerleader…the one she calls her Nanna!   Her first visit to NCWorks was to express her desire to become a Pre-school Teacher to other blind children. Through her exploration of Early Childhood Education and a shadowing experience at a daycare center, she is now on the path to becoming a teacher “to just children” (in Jennifer’s words), whether they can see or not. Her journey has inspired and included many players at Blue Ridge Community College.    Dean of Adult Education, Robin Paulison, said, “Jennifer is passionate about her independence and is committed to her education and work.” Director of Disability Services, Angie Uhl-Kalev, says, “She epitomizes the growth mindset. She focuses on what she CAN DO instead of what she cannot do…a lesson we can all learn.”   Through her demonstrated drive and determination, she has also landed her very first job as a team member at Cracker Barrel Old Country Store. To Jennifer, Cracker Barrel is an outstanding employer that created a job “just for her!” Upon a visit to her employer, her team could not be more complementary of her work ethic; they describe her as a friendly, cooperative, and professional teammate. Several members on her team said that they love to get to work when Jennifer is on the schedule.   Jennifer’s smile and attitude is infectious too! The influence her presence has on people is a gift she shares with so many. It was a “no-brainer” thinking of who to highlight for this year’s Outstanding Participant. The lessons that have been learned through this amazing young woman has taught us all that, despite being differently abled, we can achieve whatever we dream. She summed up her expressions by saying, “we can strive to be more independent if we just want to!” Thank you, Jennifer, for your example.

Wyatt Broyles Outstanding WIOA Participant National Dislocated Worker Grant (NDWG) Program NCWorks Career Center Madison County Stacy Peek, NCWorks Case Manager, AB Tech

With the COVID-19 Pandemic just beginning in March of 2020, Wyatt Broyles was working as a Parking Attendant for an Asheville-area resort when his job suddenly ended because of significant restrictions and closures that critically affected the Hospitality sector in the MAWDB region. Wyatt was uncertain about future employment in this sector, so he began to research his options for training in a more stable employment sector. He had previously taken classes at Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College but was uncertain of the direction he now wanted to pursue. The unprecedented events of the Pandemic made him realize that he needed to pursue training in a high demand field. After considering multiple programs, he decided the Healthcare Sector would provide consistent employment and opportunities for career advancement. He was most interested in training for the Associate Degree Nursing (ADN) program at the college.   Wyatt began the Associate Degree Nursing program at Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College in August 2020, supported by NDWG funding that MAWDB had received to address the critical impact on the Hospitality Sector and return workers dislocated by the COVID-19 closures to stable and self-sustaining employment. During his training, NDWG funding supported the cost of his tuition, required fees, and required supplies including support for his NC Board of Nursing registration and testing fees to sit for licensure.   Wyatt successfully completed the program in May 2022 and had already accepted a Cardiovascular Progressive Care Unit (CVPCU) position prior to his graduation. He achieved licensure in June and began his position with HCA-Mission Health on July 5. Though it continues to be a challenging time in the Healthcare Sector, he is making an impact as he begins this new career path.   NCWorks Madison applauds the hard work of Mr. Broyles and congratulates him on his achievements. Thank you for the work you do in serving our community. We wish you every success in the future.

Desiree Chambliss Outstanding Career Seeker NCWorks Career Center Transylvania County Jason Chappell, NCWorks Manager

Desiree Chambliss is a single mom who has been struggling over the last several years to get ahead. She and her husband and four children moved to Brevard in 2014. He had a job opportunity, although they knew no one and they had no family there. They both obtained employment but unfortunately their marriage ended in divorce and he and three of the kids went back to Texas.   During this time Desiree held several jobs including one where she was the assistant manager of a local business; however, the business had to close due to COVID. She found herself struggling again and the Pandemic continued to create a barrier for her and many others.   Desiree found herself having to apply for assistance through the Work First Program. There she received a referral to the NCWorks Career Center. At NCWorks she received resume assistance, tips on how to apply for a job, interviewing practice, and how to effectively job search. She became involved in the Getting Ahead program thru Transylvania Christian Ministries. These collaborative agencies along with Desiree’s motivation and desire to get a job paid off as she obtained employment at the Asheville Airport with Delta Airlines.   Although there continues to be struggles, Desiree has become much more aware of the resources in her community that she can depend on for encouragement, support, and assistance if need be.   For her dedication and perseverance, it is our honor to select Desiree Chambliss as our Outstanding Participant for the Transylvania County NCWorks Career Center.

Deb Holebrooks Outstanding Customer Service Award

MAWDB Administration recognizes our WIOA Frontline Staff for their contributions to the region’s Workforce Development System. This recognition is awarded in memory of Deb Holebrooks, Career Coach, NCWorks Career Center-Asheville.

Dianne Ables Deb Holebrooks Outstanding Customer Service Award NCWorks Career Center Asheville Rodney Embler, NCWorks Manager

Dianne Ables is a Career Advisor at the NCWorks Career Center in Asheville. She began her career with the Employment Security Commission back in 1991 primarily as a receptionist greeting customers as they came into the office and determining what assistance they might need. During this time, she was also an Employment Consultant who interviewed unemployment insurance applicants and assisted them with processing claims and resolving issues with their payments. This was a very fulfilling job that involved a lot of problem-solving, but she really enjoyed the customer interaction.   After a brief hiatus to enroll at Mars Hill College and obtain her NC teaching license, Dianne returned to ESC to work in the Food Stamp program, setting up work search plans and issuing vouchers to those who completed the program. She remained in this position before being promoted to Claims Consultant Interviewer.   As NCWorks came into existence in 2013, Dianne transitioned to Job Placement where she assisted job seekers with finding jobs, worked with customers to determine their skills and talents, reviewed job descriptions with applicants, and modified resumes to build stronger representation.   Over the past nine years, Dianne has gained many additional skills and worked with various employment programs for NCWorks and the Division of Workforce Solutions. These include Reemployment Services and Eligibility Assessments (RESEA), Employment Assessment Interviews (EAI), TRA/TAA and WIOA. She has also worked closely with Project Reentry to assist justice-involved individuals while also serving veterans and youth with job search and career guidance. As a member of the employment team, she works with local employers to post their job openings and match potential candidates.   Dianne possesses both a Career Development Facilitator (CDF) and Global Career Development Facilitator (GCDF) credential, both of which are critical in her daily work with individuals across all walks of life.   When Dianne was notified that she was receiving this recognition, she stated, “I have always loved my job and all the training that goes with it. If you have ever been in a bad spot and were rescued by a kind individual who cared enough to help you out, then you can truly appreciate good Customer Service. I feel very privileged to be involved in the workforce development of our community.”

Outstanding Workforce Collaboration

Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce Inclusive Hiring Partners

Inclusive Hiring Partners - Asheville Chamber of Commerce Inclusive Hiring Partners (IHP) is a resource to close the opportunity gap by connecting Buncombe County residents experiencing significant barriers to employment with available jobs in growing industries. Read more www.ashevillechamber.org

Outstanding Workforce Development Leadership

Dr Abe Pallas Chair, Mountain Area Workforce Development Board (2019-2022)

Outstanding Workforce Development Leadership

Brock Ashburn Vice President, Highland Brewing Company NCWorks Commission member

Recognition for statewide and local workforce development leadership. Highland Brewing Company is the largest brewery in North Carolina founded in our state. Brock is a passionate advocate for the skilled trades.

Outstanding Workforce Development Leadership

Himanshu Karvir President, Virtelle Hospitality NCWorks Commission member

Recognition for statewide and local workforce development leadership. Himanshu has served in numerous leadership roles in our region including as Chair of the Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce. His company is a tremendous supporter of our region's workforce development efforts.

Bill Ragland Award

Jonathan Szucs President, Advanced Superabrasives, Inc. Mountain Area Workforce Development Board member 2015- 2022

Recognition for Outstanding Private Sector Workforce Development Leadership from 2015 to 2022 as a member of the Mountain Area Workforce Development Board and Chair of the Board's Youth Committee..

Outstanding Education Leadership

Dr John Bryant Vice President, Pardee UNC Health Care Former Superintendent, Henderson County Public Schools

Dr Tony Baldwin Superintendent, Buncombe County Public Schools 2009-2022

Dr Tony Baldwin Announces Retirements Buncombe County Schools Associate Superintendent Susanne Swanger announces she will retire from BCS effective August 1, 2022. Superintendent Dr. Tony Baldwin will retire from BCS effective November 1, 2022. Read more www.buncombeschools.org

'It's All About Purpose': This Engineer Calls the Shots in GE's Factory for Jet Engine Ceramics

Engineer Calls Shots in Factory For Jet Engine SuperCeramics Loren Finnerty manages 300+ shop floor workers & engineers at GE Aerospace's giant Asheville plant in NC, where 1000s of adv composite components are produced every yr for GE jet engines, such as GE9X, as well as LEAP engine mfg by CFM International. Read more www.ge.com

Companies Hoarding Workers Could Be Good News for the Economy

Companies Hoarding Workers Could Be Good News for Economy Policymakers are hoping that after struggling through the worst labor shortages America has experienced in at least several decades, employers will be hesitant to lay off workers even when the economy cools. Read more www.nytimes.com

Industry level automation exposure in North Carolina and what it means

Industry level automation exposure in NC and what it means Which industries in North Carolina are most exposed to automation related employment disruptions? What does industry automation exposure mean for workers, workforce and economic development leaders, policymakers, and businesses? Read more www.commerce.nc.gov

The Workforce Behind the Workforce: North Carolina's Childcare Service Industry Throughout the Pandemic

The Workforce Behind the Workforce North Carolina’s childcare service industry serves an essential role for both the current and future workforce. For parents, the availability of childcare services can either be an enabling or limiting factor to labor force engagement Read more www.commerce.nc.gov

Labor Market Update

Unemployment rate in Mountain Area region 3.3% as of October 2022. As of October 2022, 5,164 more people working compared to October 2021. 332 less people working compared to September 2022. Unemployed Individuals by month: October 2022 7,343 September 2022 5,953 August 2022 6,938 July 2022 6,562 June 2022 7,591 May 2022 6,792 April 2022 6,198 March 2022 6,347 February 2022 6,603 January 2022 6,669 December 2021 5,584 November 2021 6,038 October 2021 6,547 September 2021 6,917 Total Labor Force 221,677 Total Employed Labor Force 214,334

Mountain Area WDB Overview | LEAD Analytics October 2022 Read more analytics.nccommerce.com

Unemployment Rate

Mountain Area WDB Labor Force

Mountain Area WDB Employed Individuals

Mountain Area WDB Job Openings

Mountain Area WDB Industry Jobs Compared to 1 Yr Ago

Taxable Retail Sales

Asheville metro unemployment rate at 3.3%, lowest of any NC metro

Asheville metro now (as of October 2022) the lowest unemployment of any NC metro at 3.3% (tied with Durham-Chapel Hill and Raleigh). This rate is 0.1% points lower than the metro unemployment rate of 3.4% of one year ago.   Buncombe 3.2% Haywood 3.4% Henderson 3.4% Madison 3.6% Transylvania 3.8% Monthly job growth by metro:   Winston-Salem 0.6% Wilmington 0.4% Asheville 0.2% Burlington 0.2% Charlotte/Concord/Gastonia 0.2% Jacksonville 0.2% Rocky Mount 0.2% Fayetteville 0.1% Greensboro/High Point 0.1% Goldsboro 0.0% Greenville 0.0% Raleigh 0.0% Hickory/Lenoir/Morganton -0.1% New Bern -0.2% Durham/Chapel Hill -0.4%

Where are the workers? Survey sheds light on reasons keeping people from the workforce

Survey shines light on reasons keeping ppl from workforce According to recent data from NCWorks, North Carolina's primary source for worker/employment data, there are now more jobs than there are available workers to fill them. Read more wlos.com

The great mismatch: Remote jobs are in demand, but positions are drying up

Remote jobs are in demand, but positions are drying up Lori Black has been firing off dozens of applications with one goal: to land a work-from-home job. But four months in, her search is starting to feel impossible. Positions are in short supply, and rejections have been plentiful. Read more www.washingtonpost.com

Employers Rethink the Need for College Degrees in Tight Labor Market

Biz Rethink Need for College Degrees in Tight Labor Mrkt Google, Delta Air Lines and IBM have reduced requirements for some positions The tight labor market is prompting more employers to eliminate one of the biggest requirements for many higher-paying jobs: the need for a college degree. Read more www.wsj.com

Labor Market Mystery: Where Are The Older Gen Z Workers?

Labor Market Mystery: Where Are the Older Gen Z Workers? The exodus from the labor force in the pandemic's early months has mostly reversed, but one group remains oddly absent: people in their early 20s. Economists search for theories on why fewer people ages 20 to 24 are working or seeking a job Read more www.wsj.com

Local companies prioritize hands-on giving

Local companies prioritize hands-on giving For many years, Whit Zeh believed that working for nonprofits was the only way she and her husband could make a difference in the world. "We thought that we needed to have the same struggles as the nonprofit world," she says. Read more mountainx.com

Pandemic Anxiety Was Higher for Teachers Than for Health-Care Workers

Pandemic Anxiety Was Higher for Teachers The return to class has not meant a return to normal for many teachers. Students need more help to recover both academically and emotionally from pandemic disruptions. Staffing shortages mean more teachers are overworked and overwhelmed. Read more www.edweek.org

RSV, covid and flu are keeping kids out of school - and parents out of work

RSV covid & flu are keeping kids out of school & out of work This fall has been a blur of runny noses, body aches and lost paychecks for Jacob Terry. His 18-month-old daughter came home from day care with respiratory syncytial virus a few weeks ago. Read more www.washingtonpost.com

American workers are bummed out

American workers are bummed out We've heard plenty about the "great resignation," quiet quitting and even some louder quitting. The rate of workers leaving their jobs is near a record high, much higher than any time before the pandemic, going back 20 years and more. Read more www.marketplace.org

Survey finds poor mental health 'a real issue in the American workforce'

Survey finds poor mental health 'a real issue in workforce' Poor mental health among workers can seriously impact productivity and the bottom lines for companies, according to new research. Read more wlos.com

60% of Americans are living paycheck to paycheck heading into peak shopping season

60% of Americans are living paycheck to paycheck As of October, 60% of Americans were living paycheck to paycheck, according to a recent LendingClub report. Read more www.cnbc.com

$650 million Pratt & Whitney plant opens in South Asheville

$650M Pratt & Whitney plant opens in South Asheville With attendance from Gov. Roy Cooper, numerous company officials and a slew of local politicians and business leaders, the mammoth 1.2 million-square-foot Pratt & Whitney plant held an opening ceremony Nov. 16 in South Asheville. Read more avlwatchdog.org

Gov. Roy Cooper, local eaders attend ribbon-cutting for P&W Pratt & Whitney -- an american aerospace manufacturer -- held a ribbon cutting today for theFacility on brevard road in south asheville.The company is building Read more wlos.com

Youth Disconnection Declined in 2021 After Climbing During the Pandemic

Recently Released Data Suggest Youth Disconnection Declined Author: Jonathan Guarine "Disconnected youth" (or "opportunity youth") are teens and young adults ages 16 to 24 who are neither in school nor working. Youth disconnection has come down from its pandemic highs based on recently released ACS data. Read more www.commerce.nc.gov

Where have all the workers gone?

Where have all the workers gone? "Help Wanted" signs still hang on windows & front doors, hiring tables continue to greet grocery store shoppers & websites are cluttered with pop-up ads looking to hire. Local biz, restaurants, franchises & govts throughout ... seeking workers. Read more www.transylvaniatimes.com

Mountain Area Workforce Development Board receives over $1.3 million to support small businesses, re-entry and substance use disorder recovery

Gov Cooper Announces $8.45m in Workforce Development Grants NC Dept of Commerce has awarded 20 special grants to 11 local workforce dev boards, totaling $8.45m, Governor Cooper announced today. Boards will use grants to help jobseekers & small biz w/ training & other srvcs in response to a tight labor mrkt. Read more www.commerce.nc.gov

Economic Development: Training the workforce, North Carolina takes a proactive approach to creating an abundant labor market

Econ development:Training workforce takes proactive approach North Carolina’s regional Workforce Development Boards play an integral role in helping businesses find workers. Read more businessnc.com

Even with some energy sapped, labor market keeps powering ahead

Even With Some Energy Sapped Labor Mrkt Keeps Powering Ahead After the shock of last month's report, the September JOLTS data is returning to a familiar story: demand for workers remains robust. Demand for workers remains robust with the latest data showing roughly 1.9 job openings for every unemployed worker. Read more www.hiringlab.org

Asheville cost of living still tops in the state, while wages lag

AVL metro cost of living still tops in NC, while wages lag With a cost of living index rating of 106, with 100 being average, AVL is most expensive place in the state to live among metro areas participating in the most recent C2ER Cost of Living survey, as provided by the Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce Read more www.citizen-times.com

BE PRO BE PROUD North Carolina

BE PRO BE PROUD - North Carolina There are thousands of opportunities right here in NC for skilled professionals. And this is where you'll find them. If you've got the talent and the ambition, NC's top employers are looking for you. Read more www.beprobeproudnc.org

BE PRO BE PROUD Book a tour stop! Read more vimeo.com

NC unemployment rate rises to 3.9% - a 'negative sign' for labor market

NC unemployment rate jumps up for 4th month in a row | WRAL NC's unemployment rate is on the rise, for the fourth consecutive month, and is nearing 4%. According to the latest data from US BLS, unemployment in NC to 3.9%, an increase of an increase of one-half of one percent since July 2022. Read more wraltechwire.com

State of Our Workforce WNC survey results from 795 employers released

Overall, respondents to the 2022 survey anticipate hiring between 22,150 and 44,140 total new employees in the next three years. Healthcare and Manufacturing Industry employers anticipate the largest hiring needs. Employers seek workers with degrees and credentials. Employers will rely on on-the-job training to develop and strengthen existing workforces. Employers cite housing cost/availability, wages and child care as the most significant obstacles to talent recruitment and retention. Employers continue to hire through friends and networks, but are also utilizing online job portals to source their talent. The average talent pipeline rating was 2.83 out of 5. Internships are the most preferred method of K-12 student engagement but methods vary by industry.

The State of Our Workforce: Western NC Our goal with The State of Our Workforce: Western NC is to identify solutions to close the skills gap and strengthen our local talent pool -which will ensure that companies in our area have the resources and people they need to succeed. Read more www.ashevillechamber.org

Download 2022 Analysis full report

State of Our Workforce WNC Interactive Dashboard The survey ran from March 15, 2022 - May 31, 2022. Read more public.tableau.com

Challenges mountain biz owners likely to face in coming yrs A new survey has provided insight into the successes and challenges of the workforce in Western North Carolina. Read more wlos.com

NCWorks Career Center Asheville workshops November - December 2022

Mountain Area Careers

NC Jobs | Mountain Area Careers | Western North Carolina Create Your Future in the Mountains of Western North Carolina. Find jobs from great employers. Earn a steady living and advance your career. Read more www.mountainareacareers.org

STAY CONNECTED ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ Visit Mountain Area Workforce Development Board website