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North Carolina ranked the top state for workforce development in 2026

PRE News & Ideas | By Annette Weston
Published January 7, 2026 at 6:39 AM EST
As the U.S. workforce continues to become more diverse, researchers are now more than ever examining diversity and bias in the work place.
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As the U.S. workforce continues to become more diverse, researchers are now more than ever examining diversity and bias in the work place.

North Carolina has been ranked the top state for workforce development in 2026 by Site Selection magazine.

Governor Josh Stein said the state’s strength is its people, and while leaders are proud to lead the nation in business and workforce development, “We’re not stopping there. We’re doubling down on training and expanding opportunities for all North Carolinians.”

The state earned its top spot based on factors like workforce credentials, education levels, and labor productivity.

Commerce Secretary Lee Lilley and other leaders praised North Carolina’s collaborative approach, involving universities, community colleges, schools, and industry partners working together to connect talent with jobs.
Annette Weston
Annette is originally a Midwest gal, born and raised in Michigan, but with career stops in many surrounding states, the Pacific Northwest, and various parts of the southeast. An award-winning journalist and mother of four, Annette moved to eastern North Carolina in 2019 to be closer to family – in particular, her two young grandchildren. It’s possible that a -27 day with a -68 windchill in Minnesota may have also played a role in that decision. In her spare time, Annette does a lot of kiddo cuddling, reading, and producing the coolest Halloween costumes anyone has ever seen. She has also worked as a diversity and inclusion facilitator serving school districts and large corporations. It’s the people that make this beautiful area special, and she wants to share those stories that touch the hearts of others. If you have a story idea to share, please reach out by email to westona@cravencc.edu.
See stories by Annette Weston