This issue of Strictly Business focuses on jobs in the North Country. I believe you will find the topic interesting for two reasons. It is easy to think the area’s unemployment rate tells the story, but does it? And is the arrival of new companies in the area all good? Where are the jobs and what skills are necessary to earn those jobs? In this issue, you will meet several people who are addressing the employment needs of the business community and the people of the area.

Our cover story features David and Elizabeth Coryer, the founders of Coryer Staffing. The husband/wife team has done an amazing job over the past year building their new company which offers direct hire, temp employees and contract-to-hire personnel. Their knowledge of the business, industry contacts, and their drive and enthusiasm have served them well and their future is bright.

Recognizing that a four-year college education is not a fit for everyone, CV-TEC is meeting the needs of North Country students looking for rewarding, skilled jobs. The 700 students from 17 area schools currently enrolled in its varied programs can look forward to exciting career choices that could keep them close to home.

The North Country Workforce Development Board and OneWorkSource understand that most people in the area who are able to work are already in the workforce. That leaves individuals who are in need of training to meet employers’ job requirements. These agencies have placed an emphasis on meeting those wide-ranging requirements.

You’ll find Bonnie Black’s contribution on Generational Theory, how it impacts the workplace, and what employers can do to inspire millennial employees worth a serious read.
Don’t miss our monthly Best Practices feature. Michelle St. Onge takes a look at the impact of new companies on employment in the area in her “Too Many Jobs?” article.

And then there is our Insight article featuring Ann Giard-Chase, the director of Human Resources for the City of Plattsburgh. Ann’s eclectic background and remarkable skills makes her an outstanding asset to the city. Don’t miss this interview.

And finally, an important reminder for the business community to attend the North Country Chamber of Commerce’s Business Expo on June 8th at the SUNY Plattsburgh Field House. This is a can’t-miss event!! Find details in Garry Douglas’s write-up.

I’ve read this issue from cover to cover and have come away with confidence that we have good people working hard to understand what area employers need and finding ways to meet those needs. And that’s good for business.