Lexington County’s plan to develop a technology park in Chapin, along with adjacent developments, make this an exciting time. As an organization committed to promoting commerce, community and culture in the Chapin area, we are thrilled by the prospects of recruiting businesses that will be part of South Carolina’s fast-growing knowledge economy, which plays to Chapin’s strength: the collective intellect of its residents.

Through our nationally award-winning Chapin High School and now our Center for Advanced Technical Studies, we have groomed the best and brightest in our community, but many have had to go elsewhere to find the stimulating, high-paying jobs that capitalize on their intelligence and top-notch skills. By recruiting technology firms that support a variety of disciplines such as advanced manufacturing, finance, health care and even nuclear energy, we can attract a high-caliber workforce that commands salaries far beyond the state’s average to create an economic boon for our lakeside community.

In a recent study by the Bay Area Economic Institute, South Carolina ranked second nationally for high-tech employment growth in 2010-2011, at 8.6 percent. Not only does high-tech serve as the innovative engine for our nation’s economy, it also is responsible for a disproportionate share of productivity gains and income growth. In fact, the typical high-tech employee earns between 17 percent and 27 percent more than a similar worker in another field. In the economic development world, these are among the most-sought after jobs.

For every high-tech job created, there are typically 4.3 jobs created in businesses that provide local goods and services. So not only will the technology park bring higher paying jobs to our region, the ripple effect will support our existing businesses’ growth and create more opportunities for new businesses.

Chapin’s proximity to Interstate 26 and the capital city, abundant recreational opportunities afforded by Lake Murray, award-winning schools, bustling arts community and educated, productive residents make us a great fit for technology companies looking to operate in the Midlands. We look forward to this planned live-work-play community and to welcoming these businesses into our midst. We are thankful to Lexington County for its vision and commitment to locating its technology corridor in our community.

Jeremy Martin

Chair

Karen Owens

Executive Director

Greater Chapin Chamber of Commerce & Visitors’ Center

Chapin