Lawmakers Rally Behind PA Chamber’s Top Priorities
An op-ed published last week in the Allentown Morning Call endorsed several key tax reforms that top the PA Chamber’s priority list.
The piece, written by state Reps. Zack Mako (R-Lehigh), Robert Leadbeter (R-Columbia), and Tom Jones (R-Lancaster), described testimony delivered during legislative hearings, including one hosted at The Columbia Montour Chamber (pictured below), in which various industry representatives urged lawmakers to advance pro-growth proposals, including accelerating the reduction of the Corporate Net Income tax, improving the treatment of Net Operating Losses, and repealing the accelerated sales tax requirement, all of which would go a long way toward improving Pennsylvania’s competitiveness and helping to create family-sustaining jobs.
The Columbia Montour Chamber of Commerce joins the PA Chamber of Business & Industry in applauding these state lawmakers for recognizing the benefits of these pro-growth policies, which have benefited other states’ economies, and for working with the PA Chamber to promote them here in Pennsylvania. You can read their full op-ed here.
Chris Berleth, Columbia Montour Chamber President (center) testifies at the PA House Policy Committee Briefing on Pro-Business Tax Policy.
How to Use AI to Assess Your Competition
Source: CO - by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce
May 22, 2024
Author: Miranda Fraraccio, CO - Contributor
Regardless of their business stage or industry, companies need to observe their competition to gain insights into their strategies and understand how to differentiate themselves. Competitive analysis tools powered by artificial intelligence (AI) make this process easier, especially for time- and resource-strapped small businesses.
According to Bryan Dohmen, Senior Director of Strategy at Hero Digital, answering the basic market and competitive research questions of "who, what, and why" can be done faster and more efficiently when AI is properly applied.
"We can … ultimately get a broader view … of the current state [of the industry, which] allows us to better focus our efforts and develop strategies to take our clients forward," Dohmen said.
5 key areas for AI-driven competitor analysis
Here are a few ways AI tools can help small business owners more effectively assess their competition.
1. SEO and content strategy.
AI tools help businesses optimize their online strategies by analyzing their competitors' search engine optimization (SEO) and content approaches to see how they measure up.
SEMRush uses keyword research and backlink analysis tools, while Moz offers free analysis tools that measure your website's health and uncover areas where your business's content could be improved. Leveraging these tools plus others like Ahrefs and MarketMuse help businesses gain insight into where their SEO strategy could be improved and pinpoint where competitors have the upper hand.
2. Social media monitoring.
Many tools are available to track competitors' social media activity, including the type of content they post, the hashtags they use, and their engagement and success rates.
BuzzSumo, for example, is effective at uncovering competitors' key metrics and identifying which social media strategies have succeeded or fallen short. Sprout Social offers side-by-side comparisons of how your socials measure up to competitors' share of voice, customer sentiment, and more. Crayon helps businesses get ahead by sharing competitor updates and messaging changes.
3. Product and service benchmarking.
AI benchmarking tools make it possible to uncover areas of improvement or differentiation for your product or service relative to your competitors.
Tools like Comparables.ai and platforms with benchmarking capabilities such as Similarweb enable small businesses to compare their product or services directly with their competitors’ offerings. Meanwhile, Watchful focuses on user performance compared to industry benchmarks.
4. Sentiment analysis.
Sentiment analysis tools use natural language processing to uncover positive and negative emotions behind customer feedback in reviews, social media posts, or surveys.
Tools like Brand24 can be useful for businesses that want to gauge public customer reactions to their competitors and identify those companies' weaknesses. For example, if a competitor launches a new product, sentiment analysis makes it possible to see how the market has received it in real time.
Other tools on the market, including ReviewTrackers and Permutable, can help provide similar competitive intelligence.
5. Technology and innovation scouting.
AI tools can provide insights to help your business stay on the lookout for opportunities for innovation.
Tools like Crunchbase can help to track new startups that may be making big strides in the industry, while CB Insights and Traction Technology can be effective for gaining market intelligence on emerging technologies.
Business owners can use this information to make strategic decisions for their operations, mitigate risk, identify growth opportunities, and pinpoint areas to surpass competitors in service or product quality.
Tips for leveraging AI in competitor research
If you're just getting started with AI tools for researching your competitors, Dohmen offered a few helpful tips to get the best results.
- Identify broad trends quickly, then spend your time digging deeper. Dohmen noted that generative AI platforms can be helpful for a preliminary "industry scan" of major players, as well as gleaning the general head and tailwinds your industry is facing. From there, he said, you can invest more time researching and going deeper into the context of those broad trends.
- Take a "safety first" approach. As AI technologies and the regulations surrounding them continue to evolve, Dohmen advised businesses to comply with internal and client policies around the use of tools like ChatGPT. Additionally, he recommends a "safety first" approach and not sharing any privileged or nonpublic information.
- Verify your results. Don't take AI results at face value; Dohmen said results should be verified before using them to make decisions. "We view the content and insights that we get [from AI] as a starting point to be refined by seasoned professionals," he said.
###
CO— aims to bring you inspiration from leading respected experts. However, before making any business decision, you should consult a professional who can advise you based on your individual situation. CO—is committed to helping you start, run and grow your small business. The Columbia Montour Chamber of Commerce is a long-time member of the U.S. Chamber Federation, and many benefits of U.S. Chamber membership, including resources such as CO—, extend to you through your Columbia Montour Chamber membership.
Economic Impact Study, Arts and Culture Alliance to be Revealed
Your Chamber isn't the official "host", (so you won't register on the Chamber website) but we'd love to see you just the same!
On June 20, we'll be supporting a free networking event at The Hub at Mulberry Mill 160 W. 6th St. Bloomsburg, called "Let's Love Art!: Creating Community and Enriching our Economy", which is a networking event for artists, arts, and culture organizations, businesses, and municipalities.
The event will take place from 4:30 pm to 6:30 pm and will feature the release of a brand new economic impact study and guests will learn about resources and opportunities available through a new regional arts and culture alliance.
Refreshments will be provided, including sangria served by Freas Farm Winery. For more information or to register, visit ourplacecolumbia.com or contact Jessica Aviva, Ph.D. at (484) 225-4929 or jdreistadt@hailstoneeconomic.com.
This event is a joint effort of the Columbia County Placemaking Initiative, Columbia Montour Chamber of Commerce, and Columbia Montour-Visitors Bureau.
“The Columbia-Montour Visitors Bureau believes that art shapes both the spirit and vitality of a community,” said David “Otto” Kurecian, CMVB Executive Director. “By showcasing the works of our local artists, we highlight the cultural assets of our region, and foster an appreciation of both our communities and our heritage.”
This project is being coordinated through a cooperative agreement between the U.S. Department of Agriculture-Rural Development and Hailstone Economic, a small, woman-owned community and economic development firm based in Scranton, PA.
10 Innovative (and Cost-Free) Strategies to Grow Your Small Business
- Leverage word of mouth by encouraging satisfied customers to share their experiences and offer referral incentives.
- Form strategic partnerships with businesses that align with your values for mutual growth and community building.
- Share your unique business story at local events and on your website to connect with your audience and stand out.
- Start a blog to improve SEO, establish authority, and drive organic traffic with engaging industry-related content.
- Appear as a guest on podcasts to increase visibility and attract new customers interested in your expertise.
- Offer free resources or samples to generate goodwill, attract new customers, and encourage sharing within their network.
- Use YouTube to answer FAQs, establishing your expertise and driving traffic to your website through informative videos.
- Engage on social media with regular, quality content and interactions to build a loyal following and stay on top of trends.
770 words ~ 4 min read
Growing a small business can often seem daunting, especially when you don’t have the same marketing budget as large corporations. However, it's a mistake to think that you can't afford to market your business effectively. There are numerous creative and budget-friendly ways to attract new customers, build your brand reputation, and grow your business. Here are 10 innovative strategies to help you achieve just that.
1. Build Reputation with Word of Mouth
One of the most powerful and cost-effective ways to grow your business is through word of mouth. Encourage your satisfied customers to share their positive experiences with their friends and family. You can amplify this by offering referral incentives or simply by providing exceptional service that people will naturally want to talk about. Remember, a personal recommendation can be far more impactful than any advertisement, and this goes for online reviews as well. If you don't already have a Google Business profile, start here and invite happy customers to share their experiences online.
2. Use the Buddy System
Forming strategic partnerships with other businesses that share your values or passions can be mutually beneficial. For instance, if you own a boutique bakery, partnering with a local coffee shop can provide cross-promotional opportunities. You can become referral partners, promoting each other’s services to your respective customer bases. This not only enhances your exposure but also builds a sense of community among local businesses.
3. Magnetize Ideal Customers with Your Story
Every business has a unique story, and sharing yours can create a strong connection with your audience. Consider speaking at local events, including your story on your website, or sharing it with local business influencers. Not only does this humanize your brand, but it also makes your business more memorable and relatable to potential customers.
4. Increase SEO with a Blog
Creating a blog is an excellent way to help Google find your business and drive organic traffic to your website. By consistently publishing valuable content related to your industry, you can improve your search engine ranking and establish yourself as an authority in your field. Topics could include industry news, how-to guides, and insights into your business operations. Engaging content will keep readers coming back and encourage them to share your posts with others.
5. Reach New Audiences as a Podcast Guest
Podcasts have become incredibly popular, and being a guest on one can significantly boost your visibility. Find podcasts that align with your industry or target audience and reach out to the hosts with a pitch about why you would be a great guest. Sharing your expertise and experiences can attract new customers who are interested in what you have to offer. If podcast guesting interests you, check out these tips on how to get an invitation.
6. Help Customers Try Before They Buy
Offering free resources or samples is an effective way to attract new customers and generate goodwill. This could be anything from downloadable e-books, templates, or trial products. Giving people a taste of what you offer can lead to increased sales and a loyal customer base. The best way to do this online is to create a lead magnet and follow-up email sequence, allowing you to grow your relationship with each new prospect and stay in touch when you have new products or promotions. Your website may already have this built-in feature and additional, affordable software can be layered to give you this competitive advantage.
7. Make FAQ a Content Strategy
YouTube is a powerful platform for reaching a wide audience. Create videos answering frequently asked questions about your industry or products. This not only positions you as an expert but also provides valuable content that can drive traffic to your website. Engaging, informative videos are more likely to be shared, increasing your brand’s visibility.
8. Build Your Brand on Social Media
Social media platforms are invaluable tools for small businesses. Use them to engage with your audience, share updates, and promote your products or services. Regularly posting high-quality content, such as behind-the-scenes looks, customer testimonials, and industry tips, can help build a loyal following. Don’t forget to interact with your followers by responding to comments and messages promptly. If you're just getting started, HubSpot offers these tips and resources to help small businesses make the most of their time on social media.
9. Develop Trend Awareness
Staying current with industry trends can give your business a competitive edge. Follow industry blogs, subscribe to newsletters, and keep an eye on social media to see what’s trending. By incorporating relevant trends into your marketing strategy, you can stay ahead of the curve and attract customers looking for the latest and greatest in your industry. The U.S. Chamber of Commerce offers these seven small business marketing trends to watch in 2024.
10. Become a Go-To in Your Community
Being actively involved in your local community can significantly enhance your business’s reputation and visibility. Attend local events, sponsor community activities, and collaborate with other local businesses. Being known in your community for what you care about and what you do can create a strong, positive association with your brand.
The Takeaway
Marketing your small business can be affordable with these 10 creative strategies. Attract new customers, enhance your brand, and grow your business without spending much. Use word of mouth, strategic partnerships, storytelling, blogging, podcast appearances, free resources, YouTube FAQs, social media, trend awareness, and community involvement to build a successful marketing strategy.
---
The Columbia Montour Chamber of Commerce is a private non-profit organization that aims to support the growth and development of local businesses and our regional economy. We strive to create content that not only educates but also fosters a sense of connection and collaboration among our readers. Join us as we explore topics such as economic development, networking opportunities, upcoming events, and success stories from our vibrant community. Our resources provide insights, advice, and news that are relevant to business owners, entrepreneurs, and community members alike.
Member News ~ May 17, 2024
Community Strategies Group celebrates Grand Opening
Community Strategies Group celebrates Grand OpeningCommunity Strategies Group celebrated the grand opening of the Hub at Mulberry Mill with a program that include their partners, and elected officials and a ribbon cutting! The Hub is the home of the Chamber and we enjoyed being apart of the day!
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices - Hodrick Realty hosts Ribbon Cutting
Congratulations to Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices - Hodrick Realty, who cut the ribbon at their new location at 2470 Old Turnpike Road, Lewisburg, PA! The Chamber was proud to celebrate alongside our neighbors and friends at the Greater Susquehanna Valley Chamber of Commerce, who joined us for the festivities!
Teen Star is getting Groovy!
Now in its 14th year, Journey Bank’s award-winning annual community Teen Star competition is showcasing a 70's themed finale on May 19th! Join in on the fun with their 70's Costume Contest. ALL TICKET PROCEEDS are donated to the music departments of the finalists' high schools. Learn more.
Covered Bridge Photo Contest open until May 31st
May 31st is the LAST day to get your photos in! Spring is a great time to see the bridges. Get rules and regulations and enter here.
16th ArtFest call for Entries
The sixteenth ArtFest will take place on Saturday, the 24th of August, 2024, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. in its lovely location on the Square in downtown Bloomsburg and down Market Street. If you would like to show and sell at ArtFest, please e-mail 3-5 jpeg images of your work to Exchange@ExchangeArts.org and mail a signed copy of the application to The Exchange at 24 East Main Street, Bloomsburg PA 17815, no later than Friday, May 24th, 2024.
Apollo Point Apartments hosting Car Show May 18th
Saturday, May 18th Apollo Point Apartments is hosting a car show. The event starts at 10:00 and will have several car categories, food, and more!
May ReadyPA Newsletter out
The May ReadyPA Newsletter is out with featured articles on Forecasting Fury: Navigating the 2024 Atlantic Hurricane Season; Decoding the Drama: Understanding Hurricane Names and Dam Safety Awareness Day (May 31st).
Glen Brook Rehabilitation and Healthcare Center Car Show May 19th
Join Glen Brook Rehab at their 2nd Annual Car Show Sunday, May 19th from 11 am-3 pm. They will be having food trucks, music, prizes, craft vendors, and so much more! For any questions, please contact Maria Fazio at (570) 204-8308 or mfazio@glenbrookrhc.com.
MCFCU Awards Two Scholarships to Local Students
The MC Federal Credit Union Scholarship Program was established to provide educational funds for members. MC Federal is happy to announce this year’s winners, Noah Moyer from CMAVTS and Katie Bonomo from Danville Area High School. Learn more.
Sean-Black State Farm Insurance Agent Photo contest
Have you entered yet? This year's categories are People, Nature, Places, and Miscellaneous. Limit one entry per category. Submissions must be sent to stephanie@insureberwick.com by May 17 at 8 p.m. to be considered!
PA Careerlink hosting virtual Employer Seminar
The Stress Solution: Empowering Strategies for a Healthier Mindset May 30, 2024, 2:00 pm – 3:00 pm. This free virtual seminar to explore stress management strategies. Learn to identify stress triggers and implement practical exercises for relief. Click Here to Register. For more information contact: BusinessSolutions@CentralPACL.com
Workshop Series for Nonprofits in Columbia County
As part of the Columbia County Rural Placemaking Innovation Challenge, a series of workshops will be held for nonprofits in May and June. See the flyer for dates and topics, and visit the project website for more descriptions/locations/times. These workshops are free to all Columbia County nonprofit employees, so please share with anyone you think might be interested.
Pennsylvania College of Technology offering Workforce Development Courses
Check out PCT's full listing of Workforce Development Courses happening all year long! Courses include Excel Training and Fundamentals of GD & T.
Upcoming Bucknell SBDC Events
Register today for two events happening in June through the Bucknell SBDC. "Using AI Tools like ChatGPT to Help You Launch and Grow Your Business" will be happening June 11 as a webinar and "Establishing Your Online Presence: Your Business is Official, Now What?" will be an in-person event on June 13th.
CSIU offering SYNCH Training
Community Health Workers are instrumental in increasing equitable access to healthcare in underserved communities across Pennsylvania. The SYNCH CHW Training Program, administered by the CSIU, still has funding for individuals who want to make a difference in the lives of others and are new to the field of community health. Find out more on the SYNCH Program Website or call (570) 246-5902.
PPL Electric Utilities customers to see lower supply charge heading into summer cooling
PPL Electric Utilities customers who don’t shop for electricity supply will see a drop in their supply price starting June 1, 2024. The supply charge is included in the Price to Compare (PTC) and passed along to customers without markup. Learn more.
Central Susquehanna Opportunities hosting two resource fairs
CSO is planning a Resource Fair for both Bloomsburg and Berwick. The Bloomsburg event will be held on Tuesday, May 28th, 9am - 12pm, and the Berwick event on Thursday, May 30th, 11am - 2pm. Please see flyers for more information and coordinator contact information to sign up to participate. CSO is also in the process of gathering information for their community needs assessment.
Washingtonville 10th Annual Beautification Day
Saturday, May 18th the Washingtonville Borough Council, Washingtonville Revitalization Committee, and the Jane D. Delong Memorial Hall Association will be hosting a beautification day and needs volunteers to help with several projects. Find a full list of projects and more details here.
Servpro of Columbia, Montour & Sullivan Counties offering CE classes
5 CE classes will be offered by Servpro of Columbia, Montour & Sullivan Counties. Get the full schedule.
Compassus hosting Health & Wellness Expo at Apollo Point June 12th
Door prizes, Giveaways, and tours will all be apart of a Health & Wellness Expo Compassus is hosting at Apollo Point Apartments. Get more information here.
Berwick Historical Society Revealing Nanny's Room
May 25th the Berwick Historical Society will be revealing Nanny's room. The only domestic help to live with the Jackson family in the mansion was Helen Jameson or as the family called her - Maggie. Her room is being sponsored by Marilyn Gibbons in memory of her husband Joseph Gibbons and in honor of their children. Learn more.
BOOM Camps happening
Better Orientation Onboarding & Mentoring (BOOM) Camps will be hosted free and online April - July. Get dates, session topics and to register by clicking here.
Celebrate Elizabeth Dowd in her Final Mainstage Performance at BTE
Annapurna will run from May 23rd- June 9th, 2024 at the Alvina Krause Theatre, 226 Center Street, Bloomsburg, PA 17815. This production will honor the illustrious 45 year career of Elizabeth Dowd in her final mainstage performance as full-time company member of the Bloomsburg Theatre Ensemble. Tickets are now available for purchase online at www.bte.org or by calling the Box Office at 570-784-8181
3rd Annual Recovery Picnic Happening June 13
Bringing the community together to uplift and support those in recovery and celebrate the dedication of service providers and community members who make recovery in all its forms possible. Learn more and RSVP here.
MCFCU Hosting Golf Tournament
On Friday, June 21st, 2024, MC Federal Credit Union is hosting its 4th Annual Charity Golf Tournament at Knoebels Three Ponds Golf Course. Learn more about the event.
Covered Bridge & Arts Festival Call for Vendor Applications
The 2024 Application is NOW AVAILABLE for all returning vendors and prospective new vendors. The application is the same whether you are a returning or new vendor. RETURNING VENDORS: please submit as soon as possible to receive priority consideration. The application window for prospective NEW vendors will remain open until JULY 15. Get more details here.
Save the Date for Agapepalooza
Save the Date for Agapepalooza July 20th, 2024. This is a day of free fun for the whole family with activities, local vendors, and food. Learn more.
Stay Connected to the Women's Giving Circle
"On the Bright Side" Sessions will continue on August 15th and November 14th and their Annual Meeting & Grant Presentations will happen July 17th. Learn more about these events and what the Women's Giving Circle is all about!
LCBC hosting annual Global Leadership Summit
For over 30 years, the Global Leadership Summit has been empowering leaders worldwide. LCBC will be hosting this virtual summit at their Columbia - Montour Campus on August 8-9. Learn more.
CFPB’s Credit Card Late Fees Rule Halted
Source: U.S. Chamber of Commerce
The U.S. Chamber scored a major win for the business community against federal agencies’ micromanagement of business decisions. Late Friday, the court granted the U.S. Chamber's motion for a preliminary injunction and stayed the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau's (CFPB) new credit card late fees rule, which would have gone into effect this week.
Why it matters: The rule would have forced credit card issuers to dramatically lower their late fees. That would have punished Americans who pay their credit card bills on time by forcing them to pay for those who don’t. The rule also would have limited access to affordable credit for many consumers.
Big picture: Federal policies are driving prices higher for many Americans, yet the Administration blames businesses and imposes government price controls and rules like the CFPB’s.
The U.S. Chamber's take: “The CFPB’s attempted micromanagement would have raised costs for most credit card users and made it harder for businesses to meet consumers’ needs,” said U.S. Chamber Litigation Center Counsel Maria Monaghan.
• How the U.S. Chamber Halted the CFPB's Credit Card Late Fees Rule
2024 Tax Credit Opportunities for Construction Contractors
Source: McKonly & Asbury
Who loves tax credits? Raise your hand! Tax credits are a dollar-for-dollar reduction of taxes that could put money back in companies’ pockets – either today or looking towards the future for next year’s taxes. It’s never too early to start planning!
Research & Development Tax Credits
The R&D tax credit is available to companies that have designed products or improved processes. R&D tax credits are often overlooked by construction contractors; many people don’t think of construction as “research and development.” They’re picturing a scientist sitting in a lab or a tech company developing new software, so they think it doesn’t apply to them. However, many contractors, specifically design-build contractors, see a lot of savings here. It does not necessarily have to be a brand-new design or process, just new to the business or industry. Depending on the specifics of the business, this credit could bring huge savings!
Do keep in mind, as of right now, costs related to research and development must be capitalized and amortized over five years, instead of expensed in the current year. This was a change that went into effect for tax year 2022. While there’s still hope it will be repealed, as of right now it has not. There is a bill currently in Congress that would reverse this, but it hasn’t yet passed. However, regardless of whether R&D tax credits are claimed, these R&D costs must still be capitalized and amortized.
Section 179D
Another credit that could bring large savings to business owners planning large renovations is Section 179D. Owners of commercial buildings are eligible, as well as designers of commercial buildings owned by governmental entities, tax-exempt organizations, Indian tribal governments and Alaska Native corporations, and REITs. To be eligible, energy-efficient property must be installed on certain types of buildings.
Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC)
The Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC) is a federal tax credit available to employers who employ certain targeted groups and employ them for at least 120 hours. Before employers can claim the WOTC credit, they first must receive certification that the new hire meets the qualifications of one of the targeted groups. Businesses can receive a credit of up to $9,600 per qualified individual.
Fuel Tax Credit
Another credit often seen in the construction industry is the Fuel Tax Credit. The Credit for Federal Tax Paid on Fuels is a program that allows some businesses to reduce their tax bill dollar-for-dollar based on specific types of fuel costs for nontaxable uses of gas. The Fuel Tax Credit encourages the production and use of fuel from renewable sources, but there are limitations as to the type of fuel that can be claimed.
If you think your business might qualify for any of these tax credits, make sure to consult with your tax advisor today.
About the Author:
Kelly Koman joined McKonly & Asbury in 2013 and is currently a Senior Manager with the firm. She is a member of the firm’s Tax Segment, working primarily on S-Corporation, partnership, and individual tax returns. She services clients in several industries, including construction, manufacturing, real estate, and affordable housing.
The Benefits of a Hybrid Work Model
Although initially viewed as a way to curtail the spread of the Covid-19 virus, remote work has gained a foothold in the business community. Although it’s still an evolving trend, most employers have found that after the initial surge where most of the work was done remotely, the share of employees working from home on a full-time basis has declined and appears to be stabilizing at around 25-30%.
Of course, there are large variations in these percentages based on the location of the company and its workforce and the type of business. Technology, business, and professional operations are more likely than service jobs in retail, food, transportation, and hospitality to have large numbers of employees working from home.
And after much of the initial fear and anxiety over this transition faded, it appears that both employer and their employees have found benefits in the new arrangement.
From the employee’s perspective, the increased flexibility and extra personal time that work from home provides has been a tremendous benefit. Workers spend less time getting ready for and traveling to work, allowing them more time tend to personal needs like picking up and dropping off kids for school and other activities, running errands and visiting doctors and dentists.
Employers, on the other hand, have found that by reducing the size of their office footprint, they can save money and increase productivity in a variety of ways. Less workspace required means less money spent on monthly rent and utilities. The ability to recruit talent from a wider geographic area means a larger pool of potential workers and wage growth can be tempered by factoring in the value of remote work benefits for the employee.
The Columbia-Montour Chamber of Commerce offers its members access to My Benefit Advisor as a solution for employee benefits, including voluntary offerings. For more information about My Benefit Advisor, visit our website at cmcc.mybenefitadvisor.com or contact Rob Higginbotham at (800) 377-3539.
The Tool Belt Generation: Revitalizing Our Workforce, One Trade at a Time
- Gen Z is exploring alternative career paths in trades like construction and mechanics, driven by the rising cost of college education.
- The Tool Belt Generation is prioritizing practical skills and vocational careers over traditional college degrees, influenced by the tangible outcomes and potential for higher initial pay.
- The demand for skilled labor is creating opportunities, with governments and businesses offering incentives to attract the next generation of workers.
- Skilled trades are being recognized for their critical role in economic growth and innovation, leading to better salaries and benefits for workers.
- Employers are adapting to attract this new generation, blending traditional work practices with modern, flexible environments to meet their preferences and ensure job satisfaction.
construction and mechanics, driven by the rising cost of college education.
640 words ~ 3 min. read
In today's workforce, a new generation is adapting their skills to meet the demands of a changing job market. With the rising cost of college education, Gen Z is finding alternative career paths, turning to trades such as construction, mechanics and electronics. This shift is creating a new wave of young professionals who are choosing practical skills over the traditional college route.
Choosing Between Traditional Paths: Desks or Debts?
Students and their families financing their college education face a tough choice: start their career in massive debt or forgo a four year degree. Many high school students today are questioning the return on investment on a university education, if it includes paying back hefty loans for decades.
The Tool Belt Generation refers to a growing group of young professionals choosing vocational careers over traditional college degrees. They are empowered by working with their hands and seeing tangible results, unlike the often abstract results of office jobs. Lisa Countryman-Quiroz, CEO of JVS in San Francisco, notes that after decades of people seeing college as a path to middle class, there’s a rising interest in skilled trades among Gen Z due to the growing cost of college. On the flip side, many skilled trade jobs can be started right after high school with pay often above the average national salary.
It goes beyond just money. Many are drawn to the hands-on aspect of trade jobs. There's a deep satisfaction in building, fixing, or making something tangible. This desire to create and contribute in a visible way is something that more abstract jobs can't always provide.
Addressing the Skilled Worker Shortage
There's a significant gap in the job market right now, with many positions going unfilled because there aren't enough workers with the necessary skills. This shortage is a big problem for industries that need skilled labor to innovate and attract new talent. The demand for skilled workers is so high that both government and private companies are offering special incentives to encourage people to enter these fields.
Perks for the Next Generation of Skilled Workers
From help with tuition to high salaries, the benefits for those entering skilled trades are getting better and more competitive. The increase in incentives is a smart move to meet the urgent need for skilled workers. Businesses are realizing how crucial these workers are to economic growth and workforce development, with some industries offering their own paid apprenticeship programs.
Alongside financial incentives, the government has introduced programs designed to prepare the next generation with the necessary skills to strengthen the workforce. Efforts like apprenticeships and grants for technical education are aimed at developing a new generation of craftsmen, electricians, and plumbers – essential roles for any society to function properly.
Employers and the Craftsman Resurgence
For employers, the return of skilled craftsmen is great news. These professionals bring new life to sectors struggling with an aging workforce. By meeting the preferences of this new generation, companies can align their operations with the fresh talent of the future.
It's crucial for employers to understand what the Tool Belt Generation wants. Job satisfaction is a big motivation for those entering skilled trades. The old ways of working are making way for more flexible, tech-savvy environments that appeal to them. Finding the right mix of traditional and modern work practices is essential for creating a happy and skilled workforce.
The Takeaway
The story of the Tool Belt Generation is still unfolding, marked by innovation and the creation of value. As career paths evolve and passions are rediscovered, the shift in more high school students choosing trade programs instead of a four year university education will help solve job shortages in industries eager for young talent. It may take longer for societal attitudes to catch up to the employment trend, but those selecting skilled labor deserve encouragement and recognition for forging a ‘new normal’ for generations to come.
---
The Columbia Montour Chamber of Commerce is a private non-profit organization that aims to support the growth and development of local businesses and our regional economy. We strive to create content that not only educates but also fosters a sense of connection and collaboration among our readers. Join us as we explore topics such as economic development, networking opportunities, upcoming events, and success stories from our vibrant community. Our resources provide insights, advice, and news that are relevant to business owners, entrepreneurs, and community members alike.
EITC Reminder For Current Participants
Here is another reminder that the EITC application deadline for current participants is next Wednesday, May 15th. It doesn’t matter what time you actually file next Wednesday, it only matters that you file between 12:00am and 11:59pm This applies to all currently participating companies who are filing for year two of a two-year cycle or filing for year one of a new two-year cycle.
The Foundation of the Columbia Montour Chamber is qualified as an Educational Improvement Organization (EIO), and several of our programs benefiting students in Columbia and Montour Counties are eligible to receive EIO funds. Eligible programs include:
Classroom in the Hospital – Students from local schools explore health careers in partnership with local healthcare organizations.
Classroom on Main Street – Students from local high schools explore business and entrepreneurship, meeting with small business owners and entrepreneurship experts.
Educator in the Workplace – The goal of this program is to enhance high school and middle school curriculum development by partnering educators with businesses in Columbia and Montour Counties. Educators bring their experiences back into the classroom through job shadowing experiences and lesson plan development.
BSA Learning for Life with Guest Lecturers – A partnership with the Columbia-Montour BSA to offer career exploration opportunities to local middle and high schoolers, and to pair local organizations and their career opportunities with students, through guest speakers.
Pennsylvania Free Enterprise Week (PFEW) – Offering scholarships for local students to attend a week-long summer program aimed at immersing students in understanding the free enterprise system and the exciting world of business.
PFEW’s Stock Market Game - This program allows students to experience the thrill of investing without all the risk of losing real money. With $100,000 of virtual cash, students are in control of their fortune, and compete with other teams from their region and across the state. Teachers register their students in one of three grade-based divisions -: Elementary (Grades 4-5), Junior High/Middle School (Grades 6-8), and High School (Grades 9-12).
Annual STEM Competition – Each year, the Foundation hosts an annual STEM contest for local students. In 2024-2025, the STEM contest will be the “Sea, Air, and Land Challenge”, in partnership with Penn State’s Applied Engineering Lab and the Department of Defense. EITC contributions assist students and their teams in purchasing materials for the program.
Tech Theater – In partnership with Journey Bank, and Commonwealth University’s Arts in Bloom, this program merges STEM and theater curricula to appeal to students who may not see STEM as valuable to their future in the arts. Through this program, the Foundation has purchased technical equipment for local schools’ theater programs and offered workshops to teach students about light and sound in arts productions.
What’s So Cool About Manufacturing? – Pairing local manufacturers with middle school students, this program teaches students how to create a two-minute marketing video about said manufacturing partner. Students learn how to shoot A and B roll, story board, edit video, add music, and produce. Class work includes social media and digital marketing, and culminates in a 48-hour online, viewers-choice-based contest. Winners of the regional contest are eligible for the statewide contest.
We encourage you to apply for EIO credits. You may also apply for credits for Scholarship Organizations (SO), or Pre-K Scholarship Organizations (Pre-K).
Again, it is vital that you file your applications next Wednesday, May 15th between 12:00am and 11:59pm to keep your preferred status described above.
Here are some helpful links with more information:
Direct Link to the Application:
https://www.esa.dced.state.pa.us/Login.aspx
Help with the Single Application:
https://dced.pa.gov/download/apply-single-application-short-app-121516/?wpdmdl=73144
Frequently Asked Questions:
https://dced.pa.gov/eitc-ostc-frequently-asked-questions/
Find Your Lawmakers:
http://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/legis/home/findyourlegislator/index.cfm
Again, please share this information with your EITC team members and certainly call us with any questions. We’re happy to help.
Thank you!