The Available Workforce is 8x the Size of Oconee County's Population and Ready for Manufacturing Growth

With a workforce that's 8 times the size of the County's population, Oconee has a laborshed of 650,000 within a 45-mile radius to support economic growth, rapid scaling, and speed-to-market. Manufacturing is the backbone of the local economy, employing 25% of the workforce. And, with room for growth, Oconee County is ready to support even more manufacturing companies, making it an ideal location for businesses looking for a reliable, skilled workforce.

Skilled Workforce with Industry-Specific Expertise

Oconee County's workforce serves various manufacturing industries, including advanced manufacturing, automotive, metal fabrication, machinery and equipment, plastics, and food processing. The range in industry representation translates into a workforce with the expertise and experience to meet various manufacturing needs.

Whether you need entry-level talent, skilled tradespeople, or even employees with advanced degrees, Oconee's workforce can provide the human capital necessary for success in today's competitive market.

Horton employee at work in Oconee County, SC
student working with machinery at Hamilton Career and Technology Center in Oconee County, SC
Horton employee at work in Oconee County, SC

Education and Workforce Development: A Steady Pipeline of Talent

aerial view of Tri County Technical College in Oconee County, SC

Oconee County is home to educational institutions that fuel the local workforce with specialized training and technical skills. Tri-County Technical College offers programs like CNC Operations, Mechatronics, and Engineering Systems Technology, which equip students with hands-on knowledge for today's precision-based manufacturing environments. These programs ensure that manufacturers in Oconee have access to talent well-prepared for modern production challenges.

In addition, the Hamilton Career and Technology Center (HCTC) serves over 1,100 students annually, and offers 20+ career pathways. Some of the strongest programs are in manufacturing, engineering, electricity, welding technology, and machine tool technology, ensuring that local students are trained in the most in-demand skills needed by the industry.

Oconee: A Smart Choice for Growing Manufacturers

With a large, skilled workforce, access to educational resources, and strategic geographic advantages, Oconee County is the smart choice for manufacturers. Whether you want to expand your operations or establish a new facility, Oconee offers a workforce ready to help your business thrive.