Special to Realty/Builder Connection
The area's chamber of commerce have produced the Northeast Florida 2013 Advocacy Agenda, a document that outlines the combined efforts to spur the economy.
The agenda was developed with collaborative input from the chambers as well as other local leaders to identify priorities and opportunities for job growth and creation throughout the region.
It is an important document for those in the real estate and construction industries as it outlines the goals of attracting people in high-skilled jobs. Copies can be obtained from the local chamber offices.
The agenda outlines local, state and federal issues in six areas that will impact future economic growth in the region.
The document has six areas:
• Business climate
• Small business
• Physical infrastructure
• Workforce
• Education
• Military
The regional agenda outlines the key public policy initiatives that will align educational initiatives with targeted industries, strengthen the region's position as what is called "America's Logistics Center," help small to medium-sized businesses develop their export potential, and support veterans transitioning to the workforce.
"The region's chambers and economic development organizations recognize that we are stronger when we work together." said JAX Chamber interim president and CEO and JAXUSA Partnership president Jerry Mallot. "By uniting to address critical issues that affect us all, we will create more jobs and further strengthen the region's economy."
Regional leaders are focused on aligning career academies and other educational programs with targeted industries identified in the Innovate Northeast Florida project. Many positions within these industries require skills in Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM).
The region is becoming a leader in STEM careers as noted with Jacksonville's No. 6 ranking on Forbes' list of Best Cities for Tech jobs and for STEM job growth, and the Innovate Northeast Florida project reported a 27 percent increase in technology firms over a five-year period.
"Northeast Florida leaders are committed to attracting more advanced manufacturing, aviation/aerospace, health and life science and IT-related jobs, and all require a workforce with strong STEM skills," said Innovate Northeast Florida Co-Chair Elaine Johnson. "As these industries continue to grow, so will the opportunities for jobs in these industries."
The leaders say that Jacksonville is poised to become a leading international center. The agenda advocates for increased funding for major infrastructure projects.
The agenda also supports increased funding measures and exporting as part of its diversification strategy. Currently, only two percent of local businesses are selling goods and services overseas. About 95 percent of the world's population and 75 percent of the world's purchasing power are outside of the United States.
"If Americans don't sell what worldwide consumers are seeking, they will buy from businesses in other countries," said Kirk Wendland, president of the St. Johns County Chamber. "With proper vision and strategic investment, Northeast Florida businesses can maximize their exporting potential."
While Northeast Florida has a diverse economy with strengths represented by multiple industries, the military is the largest employer in the region. Defense contractors employ thousands while investing millions in our community. The agenda supports policies that will help retain and integrate veterans in the regional workforce. These individuals are highly-skilled, community-oriented citizens who provide a continuous workforce flow for private companies.
"In Northeast Florida, there are approximately 950 exiting military personnel monthly who choose our region as their home," said Doug Conkey, president of the Clay County Chamber of Commerce. "These veterans recognize our region's high quality of life and their presence is a significant asset for our economic development efforts."
Alex McCoy, vice president of economic development at the Putnam County Chamber of Commerce, said, "This is a great opportunity for the communities of Northeast Florida to further increase our level of cooperation and ensure our voices are being heard."