An Analysis of Occupational Trends in Kershaw County, South Carolina
I. Executive Summary
This report provides a comprehensive analysis of the current and projected occupational trends within Kershaw County, South Carolina. The study examines the county's labor market, identifying key sectors experiencing growth and decline, evaluating the balance between occupational demand and supply, and pinpointing critical skills gaps. Furthermore, the report assesses the anticipated impact of technological advancements and automation on the job landscape and reviews the alignment of local educational and training programs with future workforce needs. The findings of this analysis offer valuable insights for economic development professionals, local government officials, and leaders in the education and business sectors, enabling informed strategic planning and decision-making to foster sustainable economic growth and workforce development in Kershaw County.
II. Kershaw County's Current Labor Market Overview
The labor market of Kershaw County presents a dynamic picture, characterized by fluctuations in key economic indicators. The unemployment rate has varied, recorded at 3.0% in May 2022 , rising to 5.50% in August 2024 , then decreasing to 4.8% in July 2024 , and further to 4.1% by January 2025 . These figures suggest a labor market influenced by various economic factors and potential seasonal trends. Concurrently, the labor force size has shown an upward trend, from 29,443 in May 2022 to 31,356 in August 2024 , indicating a growing number of individuals participating in the workforce. Total employment in the county has also increased during this period, from 28,546 in May 2022 to 29,644 in August 2024 , reflecting overall job creation within Kershaw County. However, the unemployment rate experienced an increase between May 2022 and August 2024 despite the growth in both the labor force and employment, suggesting that the labor force expanded at a slightly faster pace than the number of available jobs.
The per capita income in Kershaw County was reported as $42,929 in 2021 but decreased to $30,310 in 2022 . This significant reduction warrants attention as it could be indicative of shifts in the types of jobs available, changes in the composition of the workforce, or broader economic adjustments within the county. The leading industries in Kershaw County, based on employment figures, are Manufacturing (employing 4,425 people), Health Care & Social Assistance (3,832 people), and Retail Trade (2,748 people) . These sectors form the foundation of the local economy and are likely to be central to understanding occupational trends. Other notable industries include Public Administration, which accounted for 16% of employment in May 2022 and 12% in August 2024 , Accommodation & Food Services (10% in May 2022 and 9% in August 2024) , and Finance & Insurance (6% in May 2022 and 5% in August 2024) . These sectors, while smaller in overall employment compared to the top three, contribute to the county's economic diversity. The shifts in their employment share over time may point to evolving economic dynamics within Kershaw County.
Average weekly earnings vary considerably across different industries. In May 2022 , Retail Trade showed higher average weekly earnings at $1,136, followed by All Industries at $905, Manufacturing at $860, Public Administration at $844, Finance & Insurance at $736, Health Care & Social Assistance at $620, and Accommodation & Food Services at $321. By August 2024 , Retail Trade's average weekly earnings increased to $1,209, All Industries stood at $848, Manufacturing at $963, Public Administration significantly increased to $1,013, Finance & Insurance rose to $771, Health Care & Social Assistance saw a slight increase to $629, and Accommodation & Food Services also increased to $356. These wage disparities can influence occupational choices and highlight the differing economic value placed on various sectors within the county.
In 2022, Kershaw County had a total of 1,182 employer establishments with a total employment of 14,254 . It is important to note that another source reported a total employment of 28,900 for the same year , indicating a potential difference in data sources or methodologies. The total employment reported by establishments experienced a decrease of 5.2% from 2021 to 2022 , which contrasts with a reported employment growth of 3.4% from 2021 to 2022 by another source . This discrepancy underscores the need for careful consideration of data sources when analyzing employment trends.
Table 1: Key Economic Indicators of Kershaw County
IndicatorData Point (Most Recent)SourceUnemployment Rate4.1% (Jan 2025)Labor Force31,658 (July 2024)Total Employment30,138 (July 2024)Per Capita Income$30,310 (2022)Largest Industries by EmploymentManufacturing, Health Care & Social Assistance, Retail TradeAvg. Weekly Wage (Manufacturing)$963 (Aug 2024)Avg. Weekly Wage (Health Care & Social Assistance)$629 (Aug 2024)Avg. Weekly Wage (Retail Trade)$1209 (Aug 2024)Total Employer Establishments (2022)1,182Total Employment (2022)28,900 (Note Data Discrepancy)Employment Change (2021-2022)3.4% (Growth - Note Data Discrepancy)
III. Identification of High-Growth Occupations and Industries
State-level projections for South Carolina offer insights into potential growth areas that may also be relevant to Kershaw County. Industries anticipated to experience high growth across the state between 2023 and 2025 include Mining (projected growth of 8.32%), Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services (5.92%), Finance & Insurance (5.02%), Health Care and Social Assistance (4.20%), Real Estate & Rent & Lease (4.24%), Management of Companies and Enterprises (3.49%), Retail Trade (3.00%), Construction (2.89%), Transportation & Warehousing (2.25%), and Educational Services (1.72%) . Notably, the Mining sector is expected to have the highest percentage increase, while Health Care and Social Assistance and Trade, Transportation, and Utilities are projected to add the largest number of jobs statewide . Given the existing presence of sectors like Manufacturing, Healthcare, and Retail Trade in Kershaw County, these state-level projections suggest potential for similar growth trends locally. The anticipated expansion in Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services and Finance & Insurance could also indicate opportunities for economic diversification within Kershaw County.
Several local developments further point towards specific high-growth industries in Kershaw County. Luck Companies is expanding its quarry operations in South Carolina, including an additional $25 million investment in a permanent plant in Kershaw County, which is expected to create 70 new jobs across the state . This expansion directly aligns with the projected high growth in the Mining sector and suggests increasing demand for related occupations within Kershaw County, such as quarry workers and equipment operators. Denkai America is also expanding its operations in Kershaw County with a $14 million investment expected to create 10 new jobs , indicating continued investment in the local manufacturing base. The automotive textile industry is also experiencing growth in the county, with TB Kawashima USA expanding its facility in Lugoff, a $9 million investment anticipated to generate 50 new jobs over the next five years . This highlights the sustained importance of the automotive supply chain in the region and potential demand for textile manufacturing roles. LaserForm & Machine, Inc., a metal fabrication and machine shop, is expanding its Kershaw County operations with a $16 million investment that will create 32 new jobs , further strengthening the manufacturing sector, particularly in advanced manufacturing processes. A significant development indicating diversification into the technology sector is Sterlite Technologies Limited (STL) establishing operations in Lugoff with a $23 million investment expected to create 120 new jobs over the next few years . This suggests a growing demand for technology-related occupations within Kershaw County. Furthermore, Kershaw County itself has identified Manufacturing, Nonwovens/Textiles, and Agribusiness as key area industries , indicating a strategic focus that likely translates to continued growth and investment in these sectors.
Based on these high-growth industries, several occupations are likely to experience increased demand in Kershaw County. Within the Manufacturing sector, this includes production workers (especially those skilled in advanced manufacturing technologies), machinists, maintenance and automation technicians, industrial and automation engineers, and welders. The growing Healthcare sector will likely see high demand for Registered Nurses, Medical Assistants, Home Health Aides ), Nurse Practitioners, and other healthcare support roles. The Retail Trade sector will likely need more sales associates (particularly those with e-commerce skills), retail managers, and logistics and fulfillment personnel. The expansion in Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services suggests a rise in demand for IT specialists ), management analysts, and business operations specialists. The Construction sector will likely require more construction laborers and equipment operators, along with skilled trades like electricians and carpenters, which have also been identified as skills gaps . The Transportation & Warehousing sector will likely need more truck drivers, warehouse workers, logistics coordinators, and supply chain analysts. Finally, the expansion of Luck Companies indicates a growing need for quarry workers, heavy equipment operators, and maintenance technicians within the Mining sector. The convergence of state-level projections and local business activities provides a strong indication of the likely high-growth areas in Kershaw County, with both traditional sectors like manufacturing and emerging fields like technology showing promising potential.
IV. Identification of Declining Occupations and Industries
Analysis of occupational trends also necessitates identifying industries and occupations that may be experiencing decline. At the state level, the textile industry in South Carolina has undergone a significant historical decline in employment . While Kershaw County has textile manufacturers , this long-term trend suggests that traditional textile manufacturing roles may continue to face challenges. However, the expansion of TB Kawashima in the niche market of automotive textiles indicates that certain segments within this industry might remain stable or even grow due to specific market demands. The increasing trend of automation in manufacturing processes also poses a potential threat to occupations involving repetitive, low-skilled manual tasks within factories. While automation can lead to the creation of new, more advanced roles, it can also displace workers whose jobs can be performed by machines.
Recent data from the third quarter of 2024 indicates an overall decline in private sector employment in South Carolina . Specifically, the Arts, Entertainment, and Recreation sector experienced the largest percentage decrease (-7.3%), followed by Agriculture, Forestry, Fishing, and Hunting (-4.6%). Accommodation and Food Services also saw a significant numerical loss of jobs (-3.6%) . While these are statewide figures, businesses in Kershaw County within these sectors may have experienced similar downturns. These declines could be temporary, influenced by seasonal factors in the case of Accommodation and Food Services, or they could indicate more persistent challenges within these industries.
National projections offer insights into occupations expected to experience declining employment. These include Word Processors and Typists, Data Entry Keyers, Switchboard Operators, and Engine and Other Machine Assemblers . These declines are largely attributed to technological advancements and automation reducing the need for these roles across various industries. While the relevance of some of these occupations to Kershaw County's specific industrial structure may vary, the general trend suggests that individuals in these fields may need to consider retraining for occupations in growing sectors. Locally, a temporary halt on development near the Kershaw County airport could lead to a short-term impact on construction-related occupations in that specific area. This moratorium, driven by concerns about the impact of construction on airport operations, is expected to last for six months and could temporarily reduce the demand for construction workers and related trades in the airport overlay district. Identifying these potentially declining areas is important for workforce planning and for providing support to workers who may need to transition to new career paths.
V. Occupational Demand and Supply Analysis
Several indicators point to the current and near-term demand for labor in Kershaw County. Recent reports suggest that businesses in the county have been successfully filling vacancies, although a slight slowdown in hiring is anticipated statewide . Registered Nurses have been identified as a top job in demand within Kershaw County, with approximately 400 job openings reported . This significant number underscores the strong need for healthcare professionals in the area. The Kershaw County School District is actively hiring for various positions, including School Bus Drivers, Food Service Technicians, and numerous teaching and administrative roles , indicating a consistent demand within the education sector. Similarly, the Kershaw County government has listed job openings for roles such as Airport Attendant, Attorney, Code Enforcement Officer, and Correctional Professionals , reflecting demand within the public administration sector. The presence of a substantial number of manufacturing companies in Kershaw County also suggests an ongoing demand for a variety of manufacturing roles.
On the supply side, Kershaw County benefits from a "strong worker pipeline" being developed by its growing technical college . This indicates a proactive effort to increase the local supply of skilled labor to meet the needs of area industries. Additionally, training resources such as Vocational Rehabilitation in Camden provide support and training for individuals with disabilities, contributing to the overall labor supply. The county also has access to a significant labor pool within a commutable distance, with substantial labor force estimates for 30, 45, and 60-minute drive times .
Despite these efforts to bolster the labor supply, potential demand-supply imbalances may exist. The consistently high demand and numerous job openings for Registered Nurses , coupled with the projected growth in the Healthcare sector , suggest a likely shortage of these professionals in Kershaw County. Furthermore, the expansions in the manufacturing and technology sectors are likely to create increased demand for skilled production workers, technicians, and IT professionals. The ability of the local technical college and other training programs to meet this growing demand will be crucial in preventing significant skills gaps. A comprehensive analysis of occupational demand and supply would benefit from more detailed, occupation-specific data for Kershaw County. However, the available information indicates potential shortages in healthcare and skilled technical roles within manufacturing and technology, highlighting areas where focused workforce development efforts may be necessary.
VI. Skills Gaps and Workforce Development Needs
Several sources indicate the presence of skills gaps within Kershaw County and the surrounding region. The Woolard Technology Center specifically aims to address shortages in skilled labor fields such as welding, electrician work, and maintenance . This focus highlights a recognized local need for professionals in these trades, which aligns with potential growth in the manufacturing and construction sectors. The Kershaw County School District emphasizes the importance of both academic skills and employability characteristics like integrity and interpersonal skills , suggesting an awareness of the need for well-rounded skills in the workforce. A regional skills profile identified strengths in areas like Customer Service and Fabrication, but potentially lower concentrations in Information Technology and Medical/Health Sciences , indicating potential skills gaps in these growing sectors. State-level reports also point to workforce shortages in skilled production roles such as machinists and technicians, which are impacting the expansion of manufacturing across South Carolina , a challenge likely relevant to Kershaw County given its manufacturing base.
To address these skills gaps and meet workforce development needs, Kershaw County has several key resources and initiatives. Central Carolina Technical College plays a vital role in educating and training the local workforce for in-demand jobs and provides customized training programs for businesses . The Woolard Technology Center offers career and technical education for high school students, including dual enrollment opportunities and internships, providing a pipeline of skilled workers for the future . The Kershaw County Adult Education Center offers GED and high school diploma programs, as well as certifications in high-demand fields like Manufacturing, Welding, and Nursing, in partnership with Central Carolina Technical College . The Santee-Lynches Workforce Development Board works regionally to address workforce issues, including skills gaps, and connects businesses with qualified employees . Additionally, state-level programs like readySC and Apprenticeship Carolina are available to provide customized training and apprenticeship opportunities for local businesses . These various programs and partnerships demonstrate a comprehensive approach to tackling skills gaps and fostering workforce development in Kershaw County. Continuous assessment of these needs and adaptation of the programs will be essential to ensure they remain effective in the face of a changing labor market.
VII. Impact of Technological Change and Automation on the Occupational Outlook
Technological change and the increasing adoption of automation are poised to significantly impact the occupational outlook in Kershaw County, particularly within the manufacturing sector, which forms a substantial part of the local economy . Automation, driven by advancements in robotics and artificial intelligence, offers the potential for increased efficiency and production capabilities in manufacturing processes. However, this transformation also presents potential risks to traditional factory jobs that involve routine and labor-intensive tasks. While automation may lead to the displacement of some workers, it also drives economic development by creating demand for new, more advanced roles. These include occupations such as machinists, advanced welders, and technicians who are needed to operate, maintain, and program automated systems .
Adapting to these technological advancements requires a proactive approach to workforce training and development. Workers need to be equipped with the skills that match the demands of modern, technology-driven environments . Continuous learning and the implementation of effective training programs are essential to bridge the skills gap that may arise as factories transition to greater levels of automation. This transformation is not limited to manufacturing; the "new automation," characterized by more advanced robotics and AI, has the potential to impact a wider range of occupations beyond the factory floor, including areas like transportation, retail, healthcare, legal services, and finance .
South Carolina is recognized as a growing hub for the manufacturing industry, and this growth is increasingly intertwined with automation . This trend suggests that Kershaw County, with its established manufacturing base, will also experience the impact of these technological shifts. While specific case studies of automation's impact within Kershaw County are not extensively detailed in the provided materials, the presence of advanced manufacturers such as Denkai America and TB Kawashima , as well as the expansion of LaserForm & Machine with advanced capabilities like laser cutting , strongly indicates that automation is already a factor in the local job market and will likely continue to shape its future. Therefore, preparing the workforce for these technological changes through strategic training initiatives will be crucial for the continued economic prosperity of Kershaw County.
VIII. Alignment of Occupational Outlook with Educational and Training Programs
The educational and training programs available in Kershaw County demonstrate a notable alignment with the projected occupational outlook, particularly in key sectors like manufacturing, healthcare, and technology. The Woolard Technology Center (WTC) offers a range of career and technology education programs that cater to potential high-growth areas . These include programs in Mechatronics Integrated Technologies and Welding Technology, which directly address identified skills gaps in the manufacturing sector. Automotive Technology aligns with the presence of automotive suppliers in the region, while Health Science supports the growing healthcare industry. Programs like Digital Art and Design and Networking Systems address the increasing demand for technology-related skills. The dual enrollment options with the local technical college provide students with pathways to further education and credentials in these fields. Furthermore, WTC facilitates internships within the local manufacturing community , offering students valuable real-world experience and connections to potential employers.
The Kershaw County Adult Education Center (KCAE) also plays a crucial role in aligning education with occupational needs by offering certifications in partnership with Central Carolina Technical College (CCTC) in high-demand fields such as Manufacturing (OSHA/Forklift), Welding, and Nursing . These certifications directly address identified skills gaps and provide adults with marketable skills for immediate employment. Additionally, KCAE's GED and SC High School Diploma programs provide foundational education necessary for further training and career advancement. Central Carolina Technical College itself is a key institution in the region, focused on educating and training the workforce for in-demand, high-skilled jobs, offering nationally and internationally recognized certifications . CCTC's ability to provide customized, on-demand classes for existing industries ensures its responsiveness to the specific workforce needs of Kershaw County. Moreover, private training providers like PD Training Solutions LLC offer healthcare-related programs such as Nursing Assistant and Phlebotomy training , further contributing to the supply of skilled workers in this high-demand sector. The collective efforts of these educational and training institutions in Kershaw County indicate a strong commitment to preparing individuals for current and future employment opportunities in key and growing industries.
IX. Strategic Workforce Development Plans and Initiatives
Kershaw County benefits from a network of strategic workforce development plans and initiatives aimed at fostering a skilled and competitive workforce. The Santee-Lynches Workforce Development Board (WDB) serves as a key regional entity, with a mission to improve the quality of the workforce and enhance the productivity and competitiveness of the region, which includes Kershaw County . The WDB actively considers skills gaps, technological advancements, and educational needs in its strategic planning , aiming to develop comprehensive strategies that address the evolving labor market. The Central SC Alliance, a regional economic development organization, plays a significant role by focusing on attracting new industries and supporting the growth of existing businesses within the Central South Carolina region . This effort directly influences the occupational landscape of Kershaw County by creating new job opportunities and shaping the demand for specific skills.
At the local level, the Kershaw County Economic Development Office (KCEDO) is responsible for recruiting new industry, retaining and growing existing companies, and providing essential workforce information and training resources . KCEDO serves as a crucial link between businesses and the workforce development system. Furthermore, an SC Works Center is located in Camden, Kershaw County , providing a central hub for job seekers and employers to access a range of workforce development services and resources. While primarily focused on early childhood development, Kershaw County First Steps also contributes to the long-term workforce pipeline by supporting families and promoting early childhood education . Additionally, Kershaw County's partnership with Udemy Business for employee training and development demonstrates a commitment to continuous learning and upskilling within the local government workforce, potentially serving as a model for other organizations in the county. These various strategic plans and initiatives, driven by collaborative efforts among regional and local organizations, aim to align workforce development with economic opportunities and ensure a skilled workforce for Kershaw County's future.
X. Conclusion and Recommendations
The analysis of occupational trends in Kershaw County reveals a dynamic labor market with significant potential for growth, particularly in the manufacturing, healthcare, and technology sectors. While traditional industries like textiles face ongoing challenges, strategic investments and expansions in advanced manufacturing, coupled with emerging opportunities in technology, indicate a positive trajectory for job creation. The healthcare sector continues to experience strong demand, highlighting the need for a robust pipeline of qualified professionals. Skills gaps exist, particularly in skilled trades and advanced technical roles, but Kershaw County has a network of educational institutions and workforce development organizations actively working to address these needs through targeted training programs and initiatives. Technological change and automation will undoubtedly reshape the occupational landscape, emphasizing the importance of continuous learning and upskilling for the workforce.
To ensure the continued economic prosperity of Kershaw County, the following recommendations are offered to stakeholders:
Educational Institutions: Should continuously update their curricula to align with the evolving needs of high-growth industries, with a particular focus on advanced manufacturing technologies, healthcare specializations, and emerging IT skills. Expanding dual enrollment and internship opportunities will provide students with invaluable practical experience and stronger connections to local employers. Furthermore, developing specialized programs for reskilling and upskilling the existing workforce will be crucial in adapting to automation and technological advancements.
Businesses: Are encouraged to actively engage with local educational institutions to clearly communicate their current and future workforce needs. Collaborating on the development of tailored training programs and utilizing resources such as readySC and Apprenticeship Carolina can help businesses cultivate a skilled workforce. Investing in internal training and development programs will also be essential for upskilling current employees to meet the demands of evolving technologies and processes.
Government Agencies and Economic Development Organizations: Should continue to provide robust support and funding for workforce development initiatives through organizations like the Santee-Lynches WDB and KCEDO. Conducting regular, data-driven assessments of occupational demand and supply will be vital for identifying emerging skills gaps and developing targeted strategies to address them. Efforts to attract and retain talent in high-demand occupations, such as healthcare professionals and skilled technicians, should be prioritized. Fostering even greater collaboration and communication between educational institutions, businesses, and workforce development organizations will be key to creating a cohesive and effective workforce ecosystem.
Individuals: Are advised to proactively explore educational and training opportunities in high-growth sectors and to embrace lifelong learning. Seeking out opportunities for upskilling and reskilling will be essential for remaining competitive and adaptable in the face of a changing job market influenced by technology and automation.
By embracing a collaborative and adaptive approach to workforce development, Kershaw County can effectively navigate the evolving occupational landscape and ensure a prosperous future for its residents and businesses.