Hardware Podcasts

Workforce as Critical Infrastructure: Following North Carolina's Model w/ John Loyack

The Manufacturing Executive · 12 Aug 2025 · Episode 270

What this episode covers

John Loyack, Vice President of Economic Development for the North Carolina Community College System, explains how North Carolina transformed from a textile and furniture hub into a diversified manufacturing powerhouse by treating its workforce as critical infrastructure. He details the state's strategy of integrating customized training programs like NC Edge and Apprenticeship NC with university and industry partnerships to attract major companies like IBM and Pratt & Whitney. Loyack emphasizes that successful site selection now depends on a state's ability to provide tailored talent assessments, leadership development, and flexible learning models that address specific skills gaps for both new and existing businesses.

Most relevant to

large enterprises

Topics

Mentioned

Companies
North Carolina Community College System, North Carolina Biotech Center, IBM, Pratt & Whitney, Guerrilla 76
Products
NC Edge, Apprenticeship NC, BioNetwork
Also
Research Triangle Park

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