The Saskatchewan East Enterprise Region (SEER) recently studied the economic development in the region, to see what's strong and what needs help. Kim Wondrasek, CEO of SEER, spoke about the economy of the region at a recent Yorkton Chamber of Commerce luncheon.
Growth in the region is one of the strengths, with $5.2 billion of projects in development, and more projects being announced. Wondrasek says that SEER looks at all the different developments, and notes that large projects benefit everyone.
"The best thing about that in Yorkton is you have the opportunity to take advantage of this because you are the service center," she suggests.
She notes that the billions being spent are all on construction, and don't take into account the many spin-off benefits, such as the wages to employees in the area.
One of the areas in which Wondrasek sees the most growth is in mining development, which has the potential to bring with it many new jobs. While she admits that finding skilled labor in the area is challenging as is, she notes that as more people move in, they bring spouses who also will need work, which could benefit existing businesses looking for employees.
While development has benefits, challenges arise as well. As mentioned, recruiting skilled labor is a big problem in the region.
Wondrasek says that one of the biggest things needed in the area is training for trades. She also says that SEER is working with the Parkland College to get their Trades and Technology Center going, because they believe it's necessary. She says it will provide opportunity to people in the region who want to stay here, but also take a trade and change careers.
"That is going to play a significant role in what happens in this region," she says.
Another initiative that needs to take place is to attract more people in the 20-44 age range, Wondrasek says, as these are the people who businesses want to recruit the most.
She also admits that housing is an issue, but says that new construction is a very visible indicator of growth and can be used as a recruiting tool, as it shows that there is confidence in the economy that requires more development.
Since much of the growth is in potash, adds that right now there's lots of time to plan for development, as the lead time on a mine is 5-7 years. She says businesses need to engage youth and work on the existing problems to help spur growth.
She concludes by saying SEER is committed to helping the area grow and develop, and encourages businesses to visit their website at www.saskeast.com.
