Economic Development
Talent & Workforce
North Central Massachusetts draws on a dynamic, highly skilled workforce which is the product of the many fine educational institutions and programs in the region. Education is of the highest quality and is accessible and affordable. The region offers some of the state’s best public and private school systems in addition to being home to a university and a community college.
From our collaborations with local schools and colleges, internship and career exploration programs and initiatives such as the Young Professionals of North Central Massachusetts and North Central Massachusetts Talent Compact, we are engaging and connecting businesses to the next generation of talent—to ensure a consistent and continual pipeline of talent.
Education
North Central Massachusetts offers some of the state’s best public and private school systems in addition to being home to two institutions of higher learning: Fitchburg State University and Mt. Wachusett Community College. Additionally, the North Central Massachusetts region draws on a dynamic, highly skilled workforce which is the product of the many fine educational institutions and programs in the region as well as metro Boston and New England. Education is of the highest quality in North Central Massachusetts and it is accessible and affordable.
Colleges:
Career Promotion
The North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce and the North Central Massachusetts Development Corporation partner with employers and other organizations to create awareness about exciting career options among students and educators while addressing workforce needs in the region. The Chamber hosts jobs fairs, company tours, provides scholarships and organizes other talent development and career exploration initiatives.
CAREERS IN MANUFACTURING – PLASTICS
CAREERS IN MANUFACTURING – METAL FABRICATION
Traditional & Non-Traditional Scholarship Opportunities
Since the establishment of its Traditional scholarship program 35 years ago, the North Central Massachusetts Chamber Foundation has awarded over a million dollars in scholarships to over 600 students who excel academically and are pursuing secondary education.
In 2023, the Community Leadership Institute (CLI), initiated the Non-Traditional scholarship program that awards individuals following a non-traditional academic path such as continuing education in a trade or pursuing higher education beyond the age of 18.
These awards are made possible through contributions from members of the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce. Some scholarships are endowed through the Chamber Foundation and named in honor of prominent members of the North Central Massachusetts business community whose philanthropy and commitment to the community have helped shape North Central Massachusetts.
The Chamber Foundation is a 501 (c) 3 non-profit organization focused on assisting in the betterment of the region through charitable activities. Funds raised by the Foundation are utilized primarily for education/workforce development initiatives and charitable activities in North Central Massachusetts. For more information on the North Central Massachusetts Chamber Foundation’s scholarship programs, please visit northcentralmass.com or call 978.353.7600.
Talent Compact
The North Central Massachusetts Talent Compact is a coalition convened by the Chamber and other major stakeholders to address the complex talent and workforce challenges facing the region. Meetings of the compact are held quarterly and invitation only. If you would like additional information or are interested in joining, please contact Contact the Chamber for more information.
North Central HR Council
The North Central Human Resources Council is a program of the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce whose purpose is to enhance the professional knowledge of individuals involved in any aspect of human resources management. This runs the gamut from compensation and payroll functions, legal issues, benefits, safety, health, communications, recruiting and retention, labor relations, employee development and event planning, to name a few. Any member is welcome to participate in the programs offered. For information on the next HRC program, please visit our calendar of events.
Work North Central Jobs Board
A resource for members of the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce to post job opportunities for free and for job seekers to access. Visit worknorthcentral.com or contact the Chamber for more information.
Equitable Credentialing Attainment Initiative
Industry, Education and Community Partnerships to Increase Inclusive Economic Growth.
The North Central Chamber of Commerce (NCMCC), Mount Wachusett Community College (MWCC) and the Spanish American Center (SAC) have partnered together to increase participation in targeted credential programs among underserved residents across North Central Massachusetts with a focus on the region’s largest minority, the Latinx population.
Future Leaders of North Central
The Future Leaders of North Central (FLNC) is a program of the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce that exists to enhance the professional and personal development of the region’s emerging leaders. Programs are held throughout the year.
Instituto de Liderazgo Comunitario
The Community Leadership Institute was developed to support access to the region’s many organizations, industries and business leaders as part of the succession plan not only for individual businesses but for the community at large in this 21st century technology and knowledge-driven economy. To learn more about the program visit our Community Leadership Institute page.
Employer Resources
MassHire North Central Massachusetts Workforce Board
https://masshirenorthcentralwb.com/
The MassHire North Central Massachusetts Workforce Board is the gateway to assist with workforce expansion and retention strategies. The WIB can connect you with its partners to help you develop new talent as well as upgrading the skills of your current workers, so you retain talent and become more strategically positioned in the competitive marketplace. Visit their Career Center website for additional information regarding all of the services we can offer.
MassHire North Central Career Center
https://masshirenorthcentralcc.com/
MassHire North Central is a one-stop career center for comprehensive no-cost employment and training services for employers and job seekers. They assist businesses to find funding to train their current staff and find the skilled, motivated/adaptable workforce that meet their current or emerging labor needs. MassHire Programs & Services are funded in part by US Department of Labor (USDOL) Employment and Training Administration grants as well as non-federal funded grants.
Mount Wachusett Community College Center for Corporate and Professional Education
https://mwcc.edu/corporate-career-and-continuing-education/professional-career-training/
Mount Wachusett Community College Department of Workforce Development delivers high-quality corporate instruction and workforce development training at the most affordable prices for businesses in the North Central Massachusetts service area. From assisting companies with accessing Workforce Training Fund grants to delivering top-notch customized contract training, anytime, anywhere. Investing in training your staff will increase productivity, improve sales, increase profit and allow your company to do business better, faster, and more efficiently.