A measurable investment already working for our community
February 4, 2026
By Dr. Marilyn “Murph” Fore, President, Horry-Georgetown Technical College
When we talk about economic impact along the Grand Strand and surrounding communities, the conversation often centers on new development, expanding industries and population growth. But one of the area’s most consistent and measurable economic drivers is already here.
A new independent economic impact study confirms that Horry-Georgetown Technical College delivers an estimated $503.8 million annually to the local economy while supporting 2,926 jobs across the region. That impact reflects the return on investment generated by College operations and the earnings of HGTC graduates who live, work and contribute locally.
At HGTC, our mission begins with serving South Carolinians. Eighty-six percent of our students are South Carolina residents, and 90 percent of our graduates live, work and thrive in the state. These outcomes matter for a growing region that depends on a stable, skilled workforce.
Career preparation and workforce alignment are central to HGTC’s impact. Ninety-one percent of HGTC graduates either transfer to a four-year institution or are placed in a job, reflecting a 91 percent job placement rate. These results are made possible through close collaboration with employers across health care, business, construction, advanced manufacturing, hospitality, public safety and other high-demand industries.
The study, conducted by the University of South Carolina Darla Moore School of Business, also reinforces the broader role technical colleges play in workforce retention statewide. More than 80 percent of technical college graduates are working in South Carolina one year after graduation, and nearly two-thirds remain in the state a decade later.
HGTC’s economic impact continues to grow through strategic investment. Planned construction and renovations in the coming years will modernize learning environments and expand access to industry-aligned training.
Economic development does not happen by accident. It happens when education aligns with workforce needs and students are given clear pathways to opportunity. This study confirms that Horry-Georgetown Technical College is delivering results that strengthen our economy and our communities.
Dr. Marilyn “Murph” Fore is president of Horry-Georgetown Technical College. The College delivers more than $503.8 million annually in economic impact and supports nearly 3,000 jobs across the Grand Strand.
