Talent attraction and retention have been the hottest topics in economic development for several years. Since the COVID 19 pandemic, the labor force has changed dramatically. More people have retired or just quit work. Others have changed jobs or moved. There are more jobs available in the US than there are people to take them, and that is becoming more true for our community. If you have an interest in making our community a place where we can keep the people we have and attract new ones, read this report. Surry County is very fortunate to be a great place to live, but we need to always work to improve and make ourselves a welcoming and attractive place to others.