Since eighty percent of new jobs originate within existing industry, TEAM affords existing business careful attention. In locations throughout the county, business expansions have been strengthening our economic footing by bringing Santa Rosans higher-wage sustainable jobs and improving our quality of life. TEAM creates an environment for job creation, and this year TEAM has steadily assisted over 30 of our existing industries. One of the best outcomes from our working with these companies is that sixty three percent of those industries indicated to us that expansions for their businesses are imminent within the next three years.
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HOW ARE WE FARING WITH RECRUITMENT

While industry retention and expansion is critical to economic development, recruitment is just as important for building an economically sound community. This year TEAM launched not only a rigorous marketing campaign to get the word out about Santa Rosa County, but also focused specifically on aerospace and defense by participating in the Gulf Coast Aerospace and Defense (GCAD) coalition. GCAD is a consortium of area and industry leaders working together to promote the aerospace assets of the Gulf Coast by fostering strong relationships with domestic and international aerospace and defense companies. TEAM also worked this year on capturing the attention of select defense companies that would be ideal candidates to occupy Whiting Aviation Park. Individualized campaigns were positioned, targeting key decision makers at these prominent companies, in anticipation of an opportunity to sell Santa Rosa County. These campaigns are ongoing for 2010-2011.
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A CONCERTED FOCUS ON WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT

Why does economic Development rely so heavily on a sustainable workforce? Because when companies are considering to locate here, their first question is, "Do you have a sustainable workforce that we can employ that will ensure our company's success in your area?"

We, in economic development, are working to create synergies between our targeted industries and the Santa Rosa School District. The creation of these synergies is aimed at meeting two essential objectives: 1) a viable workforce for Santa Rosa County Industry, and 2) retention of local talent in Santa Rosa County.
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COMMUNITY SUPPORTED AGRICULTURE PROGRAM A HUGE SUCCESS

TEAM's CSA program has been a big hit with the locals. We have over 70 people in the two-county area that are participating in the program. These shareholders receive a beautiful bounty of farm fresh fruits and vegetables each week. Our first season was very popular and our second season is coming right up. All those interested in participating in the second season of TEAM's CSA program should visit PanhandleFresh.com and register. Slots are filling up at lightning speed, so don't delay. Reserve your share today.

BAY AREA FOOD BANK SEEKS VOLUNTEERS

Volunteers are needed at one of our local logistics industries. The Bay Area Food Bank is searching for anyone interested in serving in the capacities of assisting with warehouse work, clerical office tasks and off-site food bank and pantry organization can contact Chelsea the Food Bank at 850-626-1332 or via email at cwallace@bayareafoodbank.org. Hours of operation are Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. until 4:30 p.m.

MILITARY UPDATE

Click here to read TEAM Santa Rosa’s new Military Briefs Newsletter.