According to Callie Isenberg, Greenbrier Valley Program Coordinator Ascend WV, West Virginia’s premier talent attraction program designed to bring remote workers to the state, has been growing in the Greenbrier Valley for nearly three years. The first of its kind in the nation, the Brad & Alys Smith Outdoor Economic Development Collaborative (OEDC), Ascend WV promotes a lifestyle that emphasizes outdoor activities and enhances the quality of life for remote employees, while stimulating the local economy. Since the program’s inception in 2021, the OEDC continues to demonstrate that remote work is here to stay and can be leveraged to encourage top talent to live, work, and play in West Virginia. Sound Familiar?
Of the 400 remote workers and their families who have relocated to the state, 74 are in the Greenbrier Valley (127 including family members). It is evident, businesses are discovering that remote work can enhance productivity, improve work-life balance, and attract qualified employees.
Those who are seeking quality of life are choosing West Virginia.
Since COVID, the remote workplace has shifted from a temporary solution to a strategic advantage. According to a 2023 report, 98% of American workers state that they prefer hybrid or fully remote workstyles. Also, an estimated 36 million people are expected to be working remotely by 2025.
Looking to the future, Marlinton will soon be able to tap into this growing workforce, by rethinking what is a workspace. Municipal decision making that agrees with private investment, and sees a path forward, for internet service providers (ISP) can make a huge difference in outcome.
The Citynet Fiber Hut coming to Fourth Avenue, in the heart of our Town, will provide opportunity for businesses to expand and grow with the community. With adequate broadband, can we even imagine what fiber will bring?
Until next time…
Sam
