Charleston Metro Region Talent Demand Study 2026

The Charleston region is expected to continue adding jobs in the years ahead, but that growth will not look the same across every occupation.

The Charleston Metro Region Talent Demand Study 2026, produced by the Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce and Charleston Regional Development Alliance, looks at where demand is growing, how jobs are changing and where potential workforce gaps may emerge. The findings give employers, educators and workforce partners a clearer picture of where to focus training, talent development and career pathways as the region grows.

Production is Now the Fastest-Growing Occupation Category

Production jobs are projected to grow 16.7% between 2025 and 2030, adding approximately 3,945 net new jobs. Architecture and engineering follows with projected growth of 14.3%, while Information Technology is expected to grow 12.6%.

The shift reflects continued investment in advanced manufacturing, along with the growing role of automation, AI-enabled processes and new technology across the region’s economy.

More than 33,000 Net New Jobs are Projected by 2030

Across Berkeley, Charleston and Dorchester counties, the region is projected to add approximately 33,200 net new jobs by 2030.

The study looks beyond that overall number to show where demand is growing fastest and how the skills employers need are changing. That helps provide a better sense of where the region’s workforce pipeline is keeping pace and where more attention may be needed.

Workforce Gaps Could Emerge in Key Fields

The findings point to potential gaps in degree-dependent fields including architecture and engineering, management and education, as well as occupations requiring specialized certifications.

Employers and educators across the region have already made progress aligning curriculum, training and career-connected learning with workforce needs. Continuing that work will be important as demand grows and businesses look for people with increasingly specialized skills.

Explore the Full Talent Demand Study

The full Talent Demand Study provides a deeper look at projected job growth, workforce demand and potential gaps in skills, certifications and degrees across Berkeley, Charleston and Dorchester counties.

Download the Charleston Metro Region Talent Demand Study 2026 to explore the full findings.