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DRA Says Economic Future is Bright in Southern Illinois

An organization that strives to create jobs and improve the lives of people in eight states says the southern Illinois economy is poised for good things in the future.

Delta Regional Authority Federal Co-Chair Chris Masingill says the region is working hard to develop entrepreneurs and small businesses to boost local communities. He says this is one of the keys in creating new jobs.
"Often times in economic development what we do is that we shift jobs from one area of the country to the next. We're always competing for that business relocation. What we want is more expansion. What we want is new jobs being created from the ground level and you do that by creating more entrepreneurs."

Masingill says creating new jobs is crucial in competing in the global economy.

 

This is not about Carbondale competing with Marion, or Marion competing with Mt. Vernon, or quite frankly, Illinois competing with Missouri. - Chris Masingill, Federal Co-Chair, Delta Regional Authority

We are in this together. This is about a regional perspective because we're still competing with other countries around the world. Our number one competitor right now is Mexico."

Masingill says manufacturing jobs are coming back to rural America, even in southern Illinois. He says Aisin in Marion is a perfect example.

"They're actually building parts in southern Illinois and exporting them to China. Now, that is awesome, that is incredible. That's what we want."

Masingill says now they must double down on their efforts in workforce training and education, especially in small business development and entrepreneurship.

 

As a news producer and news anchor on All Things Considered, Brad provides the listeners with a recap of the day's top local and state news as well as breaking news at any given time. Contact WSIU Radio at 618-453-6101 or email wsiunews@wsiu.org
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