Powell, Wyoming’s Workforce Advantage

Economic Overview
Market Econographics

Powell’s Workforce: Skilled, Resilient, and Ready

Powell, Wyoming, boasts a workforce that combines dedication, adaptability, and technical expertise. Supported by educational institutions, community programs, and competitive labor costs, Powell provides businesses with the talent they need to succeed in diverse industries.

A Skilled Northwest Wyoming Workforce Centrally Located

Our four-county labor shed offers employers a cost-effective solution skilled in the industries that fuel our local economy. Powell offers access to 30,000 workers with high labor engagement displayed in our region’s low unemployment rates.

Job growth over the past five years has exceeded the national average, which highlights our sustainable economy based on our core industries with the largest GDP government operations, extraction, finance, agriculture, hospitality, construction, and healthcare.

As the four-county region has seen the largest job growth in retail, agriculture and professional services. As our population grows so does the pipeline of workers from Powell’s amazing school district. Park County School District #1 has four elementary schools, middle school, and high school with four National Blue-Ribbon awards in recent years.

Education and Skills the Match Employer Needs

Educational attainment in the region aligns well with employer demand for practical, job- ready talent. More than 42% of residents hold postsecondary credentials. The balanced credential mix supports industries in healthcare, education, construction, energy, tourism, and professional services. Northwest College, in Powell, trains our growing workforce with the skills that make sense in our local economy.

Growing Talent Pipeline that Fits Your Business Needs

Management, business, and financial operation, transportation, maintenance and repair, construction and healthcare occupations are some of the fasting growing in the region. Our region has a higher concentration of veterans than the national average. Our workforce boasts 4,300 men and women who have served the United States proudly and contribute to our leadership, technical skills, and operational experience across industries.

Regional Labor is Mobile

Workers regularly commute across county lines, providing employers access to a broader labor shed. This spreads out the commuting patterns it is extremely rare to never to sit in traffic to commute to and from work.

For the full Powell report or regional labor report contact the Powell Economic Partnership.

  • By the numbers

    Population: 6,000+ in Powell; access to over 30,000 within the region.

    Unemployment Rate: Below the national average, showcasing a stable and engaged workforce.

    Median Hourly Wage: Competitive labor costs make Powell an attractive location for employers.

  • Workforce skills and strengths

    Technical Expertise: Powell’s workforce is proficient in fields like agribusiness, manufacturing, and energy.

    Strong Work Ethic: Known for reliability and a can-do attitude, Powell’s workforce excels in productivity.

    Industry Versatility: Employees are well-prepared for sectors ranging from aerospace to outdoor recreation.

  • Labor costs & competitive advantages

    Affordable Wages: Powell offers lower median wages compared to national urban centers while maintaining high productivity.

    Low Turnover Rates: Employers in Powell benefit from a dedicated workforce with a strong sense of community.

    Cost of Living: Powell’s affordable living expenses ensure a high quality of life for workers, reducing financial stress and increasing satisfaction.

  • Training and education resources

    Powell partners with educational institutions and industry leaders to ensure the workforce remains competitive and well-trained:

    · NorthWest College: Offers programs in agriculture, business, and technical fields, as well as customized training for local industries.

    · University of Wyoming Extension: Located just one mile north of Powell, the PREC provides world-class research and education to support agricultural innovation and workforce development in the region.

    -Facilities & Expertise: 175 irrigated acres for research and testing, focusing on agronomic weed control, irrigation techniques, alternative crops, and high tunnel production.

    -Regional Support: Serving Park, Fremont, Big Horn, Washakie, Hot Springs Counties—and beyond.

    -Mission Statement: The PREC is committed to being a premier agricultural research and extension center that benefits the region, state, and nation.

    ·Community Grants: Support for businesses seeking to upskill employees through workforce development programs.

  • Industries supported by Powells workforce

    Agribusiness & Food Production: Skilled labor in irrigation, crop management, and food manufacturing.

    Aerospace: Technical expertise in engineering and logistics.

    Outdoor Recreation: A deep understanding of tourism, hospitality, and guiding services.

    Travel & Tourism: Powell's workforce is well-equipped to support the travel and tourism industry, offering expertise in hospitality, customer service, and outdoor adventure experiences to cater to visitors exploring the region's natural and cultural attractions.

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