Charleston Metro Chamber and CRDA release Talent Demand Study that indicates 35,000 net new jobs in the next four years

October 3, 2024

The Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with the Charleston Regional Development Alliance (CRDA), has released the Talent Demand Study 2024.

This comprehensive analysis serves as a key resource for industries, small businesses, educational institutions and community partners, offering vital insights into the region’s current and future workforce needs. The study not only provides critical data but also highlights opportunities for economic growth and talent development.

“We are excited to collaborate with CRDA on this publication, which offers crucial insights into employment projections. It highlights sectors poised for significant growth and those facing workforce challenges, providing valuable information for strategic planning,” said Celeste Granger, Senior Vice President of Programs and Initiatives at the Charleston Metro Chamber. “Looking ahead to 2028, we anticipate strong growth in Information Technology and Production jobs, reflecting the ongoing expansion of advanced manufacturing in the Charleston metro area. Equipping stakeholders, educators, policymakers and workforce professionals with this information is essential for aligning education and training programs with future workforce needs.”

“Charleston Regional Development Alliance (CRDA) is committed to helping develop the region’s talent pipeline to meet the needs of current and future employers,” said Jacki Renegar, Director of Research and Business Intelligence at CRDA. “In collaboration with the Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce, we provide data and analysis—such as this Talent Demand Study—to support workforce development efforts spanning from K-12 to adult continuing education. In addition to publishing reports like this year’s study, CRDA and the Chamber partner with various organizations to align and grow the region’s talent pipeline. Key initiatives include Tri-County STEMersion, the Lowcountry Careers Collaborative in Healthcare, the Charleston Intern Network Series and others.”

Key findings of the Talent Demand Study include:

  • Job growth projections
  • Top 5 high-demand occupations
  • Jobs driven by innovation
  • Wage growth by occupation
  • Diversity trends in occupational employment
  • Potential talent shortages
  • Actionable ways for employees, employers, and job seekers to leverage the report
  • The rising importance of soft skills

To view the full Talent Demand Study, visit: www.charlestonchamber.org/talentdemandstudy.

 

About the Charleston Metro Chamber

With approximately 1,600 member organizations representing 160,000 professionals, the Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce serves as the collective voice of the business community, and a catalyst for regional economic advancement and member success through Government Relations, DE&I, Leadership, Membership and Workforce & Education platforms. Visit charlestonchamber.org.

About the Charleston Regional Development Alliance (CRDA)

The Charleston Regional Development Alliance serves as a catalyst for long-term, sustainable economic growth in Berkeley, Charleston and Dorchester counties of South Carolina. The CRDA leads a global marketing effort to attract and retain world-class business and talent, and to facilitate the site selection process for companies considering the three-county market for competitive expansion or location investments. The CRDA drives regional competitiveness through competitive research and engages top business, academic and elected leaders in economic development. To learn more, go to www.charlestoneconomicdevelopment.com.