Last Friday we were updated about the Great River Economic Development Foundation by Phil Conover, the interim director. Phil retired a few years ago to be interim director of "the world" having stepped in to help in several locations locally including currently at GREDF. Phil even joked about having a degree in Interim-ology which according to Phil means a person who is "neither here nor there".

Was it me or did it seem like maybe the best person for the job is actually Phil? Mayor John Spring, who provided the introduction, actually hinted about that as well.

Phil explained that one of the most asked questions he has been getting is just what do you do? He explained that he reviews the assets of the city and the county of which there are many. He listed the main ones being good infrastructure, quality of life, great people, and educational opportunities.

A major part of his job deals with company and job retention. The area has over 100 manufacturing companies which comprise 18% of the workforce. Normally an area of this size would see that percentage be about 12% as compared to 11% nationally. So this area is ahead of the curve with those numbers. One of the major concerns is the lack of a skilled workforce to fill the jobs that are out there.

Right now there are 25 trucking companies with 1100 drivers in the area. The demand right now is far exceeding the supply as some 1700 drivers are needed to fill the opportunities that currently exist. GREDF is currently working with our local learning institutions to train people for the future positions that will be needed to be filled.

According to Phil, almost 40% of the workforce will be retiring in the next 8 to 10 years and those jobs will need to be filled. Technology will replace some, but the possibility of importing workers is being discussed now to remedy that potential problem. Phil wrapped up his comments with the four things he tries to live by. One being to develop a strong work ethic and two being to treat people the right way. Three is to keep yourself morally strong and four is appreciate what you have. Four great things we all could live by. Thanks Phil for a great program.