Spartanburg County, October 23, 2025
News Summary
Spartanburg County is grappling with a talent shortage despite recent economic growth, according to the new Talent Gap Analysis 2.0 report. Released by OneSpartanburg Inc., it highlights a gap between retiring workers and new entrants in the labor market, coupled with challenges for younger demographics. Initiatives like the Spartanburg Talent and Retention Fellowship aim to connect younger workers to job opportunities in key sectors. Employers are adopting creative strategies to attract talent as local colleges enhance training programs to meet industry demands.
Spartanburg County Faces Talent Shortage Amidst Robust Economic Growth
Spartanburg County is currently encountering a significant talent shortage, despite experiencing steady population and economic growth. A new report, the Talent Gap Analysis 2.0, released on October 20 by OneSpartanburg Inc., outlines the emerging labor market challenges that the region must address. The study indicates a critical gap between retiring workers and new talent entering the workforce, a situation exacerbated by demographic shifts occurring nationwide.
According to the analysis, Spartanburg County employed over 37,000 manufacturing workers in 2024—a notable 11% increase from 2020. However, in contrast, employment levels in sectors such as warehousing and transportation have decreased during the same timeframe. The regional unemployment rate stands at 4%, highlighting the ongoing issue of approximately 30,000 people without jobs. Specifically, Spartanburg County alone accounts for 6,656 unemployed individuals, while neighboring Greenville County has 10,330 unemployed.
The report further highlights concerning trends among young workers, aged 16-19, who face an unemployment rate of 13%. Slightly lower unemployment rates are reported for those aged 20-29. It is clear that young individuals in Spartanburg need stronger connections to job opportunities, which has led to initiatives such as the Spartanburg Talent and Retention Fellowship.
In a broader sense, the Talent Gap Analysis 2.0 provides several recommendations aimed at refining the local labor market. These include advocating for increased labor market flexibility, improving soft skills, and promoting lifelong learning. The report also urges better alignment of scholarships with workforce needs and accommodations for part-time workers.
Moreover, there is an increasing call to expose K-12 students to various career options and to create tangible connections between education and available job opportunities. The analysis identifies four key employment sectors in Spartanburg County: manufacturing, transportation and warehousing, health care and social assistance, and hospitality.
In response to the talent shortage, area employers are adopting innovative strategies to attract new talent in a highly competitive job market. These strategies may include offering higher wages, relocation costs, and bonuses to potential employees. For instance, the Spartanburg Regional Healthcare System is notably facing a significant shortage of nurses, while other employers in varying sectors grapple with the challenge of filling essential positions.
To better align local workforce training with industry demands, local colleges are modifying their academic programs. Educational institutions are focusing on equipping students with the skills needed for roles in advanced manufacturing, such as those offered in the mechatronics program at Spartanburg Community College. This adaptation aims to create a skilled workforce that meets the needs of large employers in the region, including major companies like BMW and Spartanburg Regional.
Chart of Key Features
| Feature | Data |
|---|---|
| 2024 Manufacturing Workers | 37,000 |
| Unemployment Rate (Spartanburg County) | 4% |
| Unemployed Individuals (Spartanburg County) | 6,656 |
| Unemployment Rate (Aged 16-19) | 13% |
| Sectors Identified in Workforce | Manufacturing, Transportation & Warehousing, Health Care & Social Assistance, Hospitality |
FAQ
What is the Talent Gap Analysis 2.0?
The Talent Gap Analysis 2.0 was released on October 20 by OneSpartanburg Inc. to address labor market issues.
What are the current employment statistics in Spartanburg County?
Spartanburg County employed over 37,000 manufacturing workers in 2024, an 11% increase from 2020. The regional unemployment rate was 4% in 2024, translating to approximately 30,000 people without jobs.
Which industry sectors are highlighted in the analysis?
The analysis highlights four key employment sectors in Spartanburg County: manufacturing, transportation and warehousing, health care and social assistance, and hospitality.
What strategies are employers using to attract talent?
Area employers are implementing creative strategies to attract talent in a competitive job market, including higher wages, relocation costs, and bonuses.
What initiatives are being taken to connect young workers to job opportunities?
Young workers need better connections to job opportunities; initiatives like the Spartanburg Talent and Retention Fellowship have been put in place.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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AtWork Staffing Expands Operations in Greenville
Additional Resources
- Upstate Business Journal: Spartanburg Talent Gap Analysis
- Greenville Business Magazine: Talent Gap Analysis 2.0
- Upstate Business Journal: Samsung Call Center
- Go Upstate: Hot Job Market in Spartanburg
- Wikipedia: Labor Market
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Unemployment
Author: STAFF HERE GREENVILLE
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