How do you feel about the long-term prospects of the state ?
“ There are numerous successful examples of private industry working with government that have resulted in new significant commercial investments and improvements to existing infrastructure — and there are many works in progress , all of which bode well for West Virginia ’ s future .”
Jim Fawcett , President of Highmark West Virginia ,
Parkersburg
Executive Interviews
The Pulse of West Virginia
ANNA MOORE
West Virginia Executive reached out to more than 20 in-state business executives to hear their take on the Mountain State ’ s economic future . We solicited responses from executives in varying industries that we feel have their finger on the pulse of West Virginia . We wanted to know their ideas for a more prosperous future and get their feel for the current state of doing business and living in West Virginia . All were invited to answer the same six questions . Of the ones who responded , we narrowed their answers down to the most impactful response from each executive . Here is what they had to say :
“ After more than 30 years of headwinds , both structural and cyclical , West Virginia and our region are now enjoying significant tailwinds , both structural and cyclical . While we continue to face challenges and issues , there is no question in my mind that West Virginia is entering a golden age and that West Virginians will enjoy prosperity and opportunity over the next several decades .”
Tom Heywood , Partner & Business Development Chair at Bowles Rice LLP , Charleston
“ As someone who recently chose to join a West Virginiabased business and relocate from Tennessee , I am genuinely excited about the long-term prospects of this state . My family and I recently moved into our new home in Wheeling . In our first year as residents , we ’ ve found West Virginia offers a unique combination of welcoming communities , natural beauty and a business-friendly economic environment .”
Jeffrey Jackson , President & CEO of WesBanco ,
Wheeling
There is a national workforce shortage . How do you feel West Virginia is doing comparatively , and what can it do better ?
“ Many meetings about workforce development focus on skills gaps and training needs . Those are legitimate issues , but what needs more focus are what I call human elements . Most employers simply want workers who are on time , have a positive attitude and are willing to work diligently and learn . When employers find workers , there are often overwhelming barriers to success : addiction , trauma , illness , lack of transportation , lack of child care , etc . We need to do a much better job of addressing human elements .”
Brandon Dennison , Founder & Executive President of
Coalfield Development , Barboursville
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