North Carolina’s rural communities are evolving, adapting, and finding new ways to grow. From broadband expansion to small business lending to workforce development, these areas are proving that with the right investment and vision, they can thrive in today’s economy.

In this episode of Constructing the Carolinas, host Valerie Bono sits down with Patrick Woodie, President & CEO of the North Carolina Rural Economic Development Center, to explore the opportunities and challenges facing rural communities today. They discuss:

• How North Carolina’s rural population has shifted over the years and what it means for economic growth
• The biggest factors attracting people to smaller communities post-pandemic
• Why broadband, workforce development, and infrastructure are critical to rural success
• How disaster recovery efforts are rebuilding communities impacted by Hurricane Helene
• The role of community colleges, local businesses, and state policies in strengthening rural economies
• The future of workforce development and why North Carolina needs an Eastern School of Science & Math

If you’re interested in economic development, rural revitalization, or the future of North Carolina’s communities, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

Resources & Links:

• NC Rural Center: ncruralcenter.org
• Barnhill Contracting Company: barnhillcontracting.com
• NC Rural Summit (March 2025): Check back for registration details at ncruralcenter.org

Constructing the Carolinas is brought to you by Barnhill Contracting Company, which has been Constructing the Carolinas since 1949, hosted by Valerie Bono, and produced by Earfluence.

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