By Lewis Loflin
In 2014, the Tri-Cities area, encompassing Bristol, Johnson City, and Kingsport, faced significant economic challenges influenced by global trends and local dynamics. The region, like much of Southwest Virginia, has been affected by the decline of traditional manufacturing, with wages in this sector stagnating over the past two decades. In Bristol, Virginia, the median household income in 2014 was approximately $21,589, well below the national average of $53,657, highlighting the economic disparity. Additionally, the area grappled with social challenges, including a rise in drug addiction, particularly opioid abuse, which saw a 200% increase in overdose deaths in Tennessee from 2000 to 2014. These factors have contributed to difficulties in workforce development and economic growth, prompting discussions among local leaders about how to address these issues effectively.
The Bristol Herald Courier reported on April 23, 2014, that Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA) met with local business leaders and officials in Bristol to discuss workforce challenges. The meeting focused on the need for improved workforce training and the impact of drug addiction on employment stability. Kaine emphasized the importance of workforce development, noting that many employers struggled to find qualified workers. However, these discussions often highlight the need for a deeper understanding of workforce challenges, including why some businesses face difficulties attracting applicants despite reported job openings.
Drug addiction was identified as a significant barrier to employment, with many individuals facing challenges in maintaining stable jobs due to substance abuse. At the same time, educational attainment in the region has been a concern, with high rates of high school dropouts and social promotions leaving some workers unprepared for technical roles that require skills like reading blueprints or basic math and science knowledge. Addressing these educational gaps is essential for creating a trainable workforce, but local efforts in 2014 often focused more on business incentives than on direct support for education or addiction treatment programs.
Local business leaders, such as Sam Cassel of Utility Trailer Manufacturing Company, expressed a need for more employees, stating that his company could hire 100 workers immediately if available. However, a review of the Virginia Employment Commission listings at the time showed no active job postings for Utility Trailer, raising questions about the visibility of these opportunities. Similarly, Mark Ammen, CEO of Universal Fiber Systems, noted a need for both skilled and unskilled workers, describing the positions as “great jobs.” Yet, Universal Fiber Systems also had no listings with the Virginia Employment Commission, and reported wages for some roles were around $9 per hour with rotating 12-hour shifts, often through temp agencies, which may not appeal to all workers.
Businesses in the region often rely on public funding for workforce training but have been hesitant to commit to hiring or contributing financially to these programs. Additionally, some manufacturers have policies against hiring college graduates, citing a perceived mismatch with factory culture, which may limit opportunities for educated workers. This dynamic has led to an out-migration of young, skilled individuals seeking better opportunities elsewhere, leaving employers to address the challenge of filling roles with a workforce that may require additional training or support to overcome barriers like drug addiction.
In 2014, significant public funds were allocated to economic development projects in the region. Governor Terry McAuliffe supported The Falls retail development in Bristol with $100 million in state funds, aiming to boost the local economy. Additionally, in September 2014, the Virginia Tobacco Commission approved $30 million for workforce training and economic development initiatives in Southwest Virginia, including new training centers and programs to support college attendance. While these efforts aim to attract future businesses, they also highlight a disconnect, as current employers struggle to fill existing roles due to skill gaps and drug-related challenges among the workforce.
Addressing these issues requires a multifaceted approach. Enhancing educational programs to improve literacy and technical skills among high school graduates and adult workers could create a more trainable workforce. Investing in drug treatment programs is equally critical to support individuals in overcoming addiction and returning to stable employment. Furthermore, businesses could improve hiring practices by increasing transparency in job postings, offering competitive wages, and participating more actively in workforce training initiatives. By fostering collaboration between government, businesses, and community organizations, Bristol and the Tri-Cities can work toward a more sustainable economic future that supports both employers and workers.
