North Carolina Tops Nation for Workforce Development

North Carolina has been named the number one state for workforce development in 2026 by Site Selection magazine, following its 2025 ranking as “America’s Top State for Business.” Governor Josh Stein celebrated the recognition during a visit to Machine Specialties Inc. (MSI) in Whitsett, highlighting the state’s workforce initiatives and the work of the Governor’s Council on Workforce and Apprenticeships.

“North Carolina’s strength is our people,” Stein said. "They power our economy. We must continue to invest in our people and expand pathways that prepare more North Carolinians for the jobs being built here.”

The ranking considers factors such as workforce credentials, labor productivity, and training programs. North Carolina finished ahead of Utah and Illinois. Leaders said the state’s success reflects collaboration between government, education, and businesses.

The Governor’s Council on Workforce and Apprenticeships, established in 2025, has set goals and strategies to expand apprenticeships, work-based learning, and career awareness. Programs like NCWorks Career Centers and NCcareers.org connect residents with jobs and training opportunities, while community colleges and the UNC System provide education aligned with employer needs.

At MSI, apprenticeships were highlighted as a key workforce tool. Nearly one-third of employees are current or former apprentices, supported through partnerships like Guilford Apprenticeship Partners and RockATOP.

Other 2025 initiatives included expanding child care and early education to support workforce participation, offering federal Dislocated Worker Grants after Hurricane Helene, strengthening veteran employment programs, and launching pilot programs to help incarcerated individuals prepare for jobs.

Since January 2025, North Carolina has announced more than $24 billion in new business investment, creating over 35,000 jobs. Officials said the workforce ranking underscores the state’s focus on linking education, training, and real job opportunities.

North Carolina’s leaders said continued investment in skills, apprenticeships, and career pathways will ensure the state remains a national leader in workforce development.