In early 2025, the Surry County Economic Development Partnership launched a comprehensive Workforce & Talent Survey to better understand the current workforce landscape across Surry County. The purpose of this survey is to gather actionable insights from local employers on their talent needs, hiring trends, training practices, and workplace challenges — all to help guide collaborative efforts to strengthen our region’s workforce.

As employers face a dynamic labor market marked by talent shortages, changing demographics, and evolving employee expectations, this survey provides a valuable snapshot of where we stand and what is needed to support local businesses in sustaining growth and competitiveness.

OBJECTIVES:
– Identify current hiring needs and workforce gaps
– Assess training and development practices
– Understand challenges in talent attraction and retention
– Benchmark local wages, benefits, and incentives
– Gauge interest in partnerships with schools and training programs
– Strengthen collaboration between employers, educators, and community partners