LancasterThriving_WinterSpring2017 - 34

PREVIOUS LCCI PROGRAMS AND EVENTS
STATE OF THE COUNTY
"A more concerted effort to
lift up the benefits of skilled
careers that require associates
degrees or less, particularly in
STEM (Science, Technology,
Engineering and Math)
fields, can go a long way in
improving our unemployment
and poverty numbers
over time. This should be
supported by a more integrated approach to help address
challenges that prevent heads of households from acquiring
and maintaining consistent employment," commented Mike
Shirk, CEO of the High Companies.
Referencing our Prosperity Indicators report, Shirk spoke at
the State of the County event - highlighting how business
and community leaders can find solutions to the issues
facing our economy. Shirk was one of six presenters who
shared insight and perspective and challenged the group to
work collectively to build a prosperous community.

ECONOMIC FORECAST BREAKFAST

"Lancaster County benefits from a well-diversified economy,
low unemployment, a good supply of young workers and
a growing leisure and service sector," stated Dave Hanson,
CEO of Fulton Financial Advisors. "I expect overall economic
growth in Lancaster County over the next five or six years to
exceed that of the state and the country."
While Lancaster County's future is bright, Hanson also spoke
to our growing wage gap, housing market and affordability
issues and need to develop higher-paid, skills jobs. In
addition to Hanson's remarks at our Economic Forecast
Breakfast, Linda Duessel of Federated Investors provided
broad perspective on our economy, impact of the new
administration and international markets.

WAKE UP TO THE ISSUES FORUM
"Attending the Wake Up to the Issues forums is a great way to stay
informed on a variety of topics such as governmental services and
community issues. As a mother of two elementary aged students
currently attending the School District of Lancaster, I was thrilled
to have the opportunity to hear how Pennsylvania's Secretary of
Education, Pedro Rivera, is bringing positive changes to our state's
education system. Investing in our children will create a stronger
economy, in turn creating a well-educated workforce that meets
the needs of our ever changing communities," commented Nicole
Seuffert, Business Development, RGS Associates, Inc.
Secretary of Education Pedro Rivera met with business leaders at
Wake Up to the Issues and shared how the Department invested
more than $640 million in additional funds over the past two years in
classroom programs from pre-kindergarten to post-secondary that will
positively impact student achievement. He also noted that gathering
input from people around the state helps to develop smart education
policy that best serves students.

34 | LANCASTERTHRIVING! | Winter/Spring2017

http://www.lancasterchamber.com/log.aspx?type=KWMB&rt=MEMB&url=www.high.net http://www.lancasterchamber.com/log.aspx?type=KWMB&rt=MEMB&url=www.fultonfinancialadvisors.com http://www.lancasterchamber.com/log.aspx?type=KWMB&rt=MEMB&url=www.rgsassociates.com

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