
Charleston, SC – Production has overtaken Information Technology as the fastest-growing occupation category in the Charleston metro region, according to the Charleston Metro Region Talent Demand Study 2026, produced by the Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce and Charleston Regional Development Alliance.
Production jobs are projected to grow 16.7% between 2025 and 2030, adding approximately 3,945 net new jobs. Architecture and engineering follows with projected growth of 14.3%, while information technology is expected to grow 12.6%. The shift reflects continued investment in advanced manufacturing as automation and AI-enabled processes become more integrated into how work is done across the region.
Overall, the Charleston metro is projected to add approximately 33,200 net new jobs by 2030. The study looks beyond the total number of jobs being created to examine where demand is growing, how occupations are changing and whether the region’s workforce pipeline is producing people with the skills, certifications and degrees employers will need.
“The Charleston region is positioned for continued job growth and that growth will not look the same across every occupation. Understanding where demand is accelerating and where potential workforce gaps exist gives us an opportunity to respond earlier and more strategically,” said Celeste Granger, Senior Vice President of Workforce and Leadership at the Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce.
“Charleston’s workforce needs are changing alongside its economy. The rise of production, continued demand for engineering and technology talent, and growing importance of both technical and soft skills demonstrate that preparing for future growth requires looking ahead, not simply responding to today’s needs,” said Jacki Renegar, Senior Director of Research and Business Intelligence at the Charleston Regional Development Alliance. “This data helps our region make more informed decisions about where to focus talent development efforts and investment.”
The findings also point to potential gaps between employer demand and the region’s education and training pipeline. Degree-dependent fields projected to face some of the largest shortfalls include education instruction and library, architecture and engineering and management. Potential gaps also appear in occupations requiring specialized certifications, including certified nursing assistants, licensed practical nurses and workers requiring transportation worker identification credentials.
“Employers and educators across our region have made important progress in aligning curriculum, training and career-connected learning with changing workforce needs,” Granger said. “Continuing that collaboration will be essential to preparing students and workers for the opportunities ahead and helping businesses access the talent they need to grow.”
The Talent Demand Study examines projected job opportunities and potential gaps in skills, certifications and degrees across Berkeley, Charleston and Dorchester counties. The findings are intended to help business, education and workforce leaders better understand where talent supply aligns with employer demand and where additional attention may be needed to support career pathways, training and future investment.
The full Charleston Metro Region Talent Demand Study 2026 is available for download at charlestonchamber.org/talent-demand-study.
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