Orange County NC Website
41 <br /> proximity to leading institutions such as the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill(UNC), Duke <br /> University, and North Carolina State University.The Triangle's reputation as a hub for innovation, <br /> research, and cutting-edge industries positions it as a magnet for firms seeking to grow or establish <br /> operations in a thriving, knowledge-driven economy. <br /> Orange County's healthcare sector is undergoing significant growth, led by key institutions like UNC <br /> Health Care and Duke Health. UNC Health Care's construction of a state-of-the-art surgical <br /> hospital tower will increase the demand for healthcare professionals,while Duke Hospitals is <br /> advancing several projects in response to the region's healthcare needs.With an aging population <br /> in Orange County,the demand for supportive living facilities with integrated healthcare services is <br /> also expected to grow.These developments underscore the region's economic dynamism,fueled <br /> by both technological innovation and the expansion of essential healthcare infrastructure. <br /> How do the skills and education of the current workforce correspond to employment <br /> opportunities in the jurisdiction? <br /> Orange County's workforce remains highly educated,with 62%of residents aged 25 and over <br /> holding a bachelor's degree or higher, reflecting a slight increase from previous years.This high <br /> Level of educational attainment aligns with the county's workforce demands, as educational <br /> services (29.0%)and healthcare and social assistance(24.8%) remain the largest employment <br /> sectors.The county's strong emphasis on education ensures a well-qualified labor force to support <br /> these critical industries. <br /> Describe any current workforce training initiatives, including those supported by Workforce <br /> Investment Boards,community colleges and other organizations. Describe how these efforts <br /> will support the jurisdiction's Consolidated Plan. <br /> NCWorks Career Center in Chapel Hill- Located in Chapel Hill,the NCWorks Career Center <br /> provides a comprehensive range of employment and training services at no charge. Services <br /> include: <br /> • Career Assessment&Counseling: Personalized guidance to help individuals identify <br /> suitable career paths. <br /> • Workshops: Both on-site and virtual sessions covering job search strategies, resume <br /> writing, and interview preparation. <br /> • Training& Education Information:Access to information on educational programs and <br /> certifications to enhance employability. <br /> • Community Resource Referrals: Connections to various support services and partner <br /> programs. <br /> • Unemployment Claims Assistance: Help with filing and managing unemployment benefits. <br /> 38 <br />