South Carolina has long been a manufacturing leader, but the Charleston region is now
emerging as a key center for clean energy innovation and advanced engineering technologies.
South Carolina’s tech sector is experiencing significant growth. Between 2010 and 2020,
employment in the state’s technology industry increased by 32.9%. For smaller companies,
though, hiring the right talent remains a significant challenge when competing against
well-established global players. These large corporations offer enticing compensation packages
and brand recognition that make it difficult for startups to stand out in the hiring market.
To stay ahead, some companies in Charleston’s growing tech sector compete by offering
meaningful community impact and a close-knit, collaborative work environment. As the CEO of
one such company, I believe the best way forward is for small businesses to collaborate with
state government and local education institutions to create the job security infrastructure needed
for all types of businesses to thrive.
Empowering Innovation
In Charleston’s tech sector, engineers and innovators are increasingly finding opportunities to
contribute directly to the future of energy technology. Many companies in this space cultivate
cultures that foster innovation and unite their teams around a shared commitment to building a
cleaner, more sustainable future.
Still, startups across the region face challenges. Attracting and retaining talent can be
particularly challenging for startups, as larger organizations often offer more established career
pathways and greater job stability. Strengthening Charleston’s sustainable tech talent pipeline
requires a strategic, community-led approach.
While some challenges are universal, smaller tech companies also grapple with limited
resources when it comes to recruitment. However, attracting talent in a competitive market
requires an intentional strategy. Below are a few approaches that can help increase
engagement and strengthen the talent pipeline within early-stage companies:
1. Expanding Technical Training
With the growth in our sector, the demand for these professionals is high. According to The
2023 U.S. Energy and Employment Report, jobs in the energy sector reached 8.4
million—representing over 5% of all U.S. jobs. Partnering with local universities and community
colleges to create affordable programs can help develop the workforce right here in Charleston.
This will allow for long-term career pathways for future engineers in the community.
2. Incentivized Career Transitions
By offering incentives for professionals to transition into the technology sector, South Carolina
can support these local innovators. Stipends or tuition reimbursements are a few ways that the
state government can help professionals enter the workforce and retain talent in the state, while
addressing labor shortages.
3. Regional Cross-Sector Collaboration
South Carolina is home to a large manufacturing sector, presenting an excellent opportunity to
cultivate strong partnerships between corporations and local startups. Whether through supply
chain collaboration or network building, these relationships can drive innovation while creating
new pathways for talent development throughout the region.
Charleston’s Tech Boom is Just Getting Started
Charleston has all the ingredients to become a major player in the tech world. The talent is here.
The business climate is favorable. And the potential is enormous. To realize that potential, we
must rethink how we support the companies driving innovation. It’s time to focus on addressing
the real barrier to attracting the right talent, job security, and start viewing small companies as
pivotal players in South Carolina’s economic future.
