Labor Day weekend is in our rearview mirror and capped off a strong summer tourism season. 
 
Tourism has been booming the past few months, and we are appreciative of the resilience and flexibility our residents and businesses have shown while facing an unprecedented workforce shortage. Kudos to them and their employees for going above and beyond, and thank you to our community for being patient and kind.
 
The workforce issue is not unique to the Lowcountry. It’s something that’s felt throughout the country. During our Power Hour Tele-Town Hall last week, we talked with Tom Sullivan, the Vice President of Small Business Policy at the U.S. Chamber, about the talent pipeline and other topics. You can listen to the conversation here.
 
One of the ways that we’ve been at the forefront of keeping our talent pipeline full is by partnering with the Apprenticeship SC program. Earlier this summer, a Hilton Head High School junior started his culinary career at Palmetto Dunes. Over the next two years, he’ll finish high school, earn college credits at TCL’s Culinary Institute of the South, get hands-on experience in a kitchen, and embark on his career. There are numerous others just like him launching their careers through this program.
 
Apprenticeships are a win-win-win for employers and students alike. For details about the program, visit www.ApprenticeshipCarolina.com.  
 
We’re also very fortunate to be celebrating the opening of TCL’s Culinary Institute of the South later this fall. Over 70 percent of students that graduate will live and work locally, which is great news for our workforce.
 
Cheers to a successful summer. Have a great week!  

 
Sincerely,
Bills Signature

 


Bill Miles,
President & CEO
Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce

 

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