The SEMO (South East Missouri) Workforce and Economic Development Forum met on Saturday, November 8, in Piedmont, MO. With about 100 attendees, the audience listened to questions from the experts about ideas for growth in our communities. The moderator was Lucas Presson, head of SEMO. He asked questions to panelists Senator Bean (our state senator), Senator Burger, Robert Knodell (who develops Poplar Bluff), and Ed Dust (economic developer in Sikeston).
The day began with a question-and-answer session. This ended with the audience asking questions. Following this was lunch. Mr. Secretary of State Denny Hoskins spoke after lunch. Then, Mizzou Vice Chancellor Chad Higgins ended the day.
Here are a few questions and answers from the panelists.
Economic Challenges in SE MO
Senator Bean summarized his thought of challenges was putting people into the workforce. He noted that we need more tradesmen. Knodell thought that the workforce was aging out. We need younger workers. To have that, we need adequate childcare. He did not think women needed to stay at home when they could be working.
Beyond People, What Are SE Missouri’s Strengths?
Senator Burger said the greatest strength is infrastructure. He added that interstates and the river are helpful; we need to promote the area. We also need better broadband.
Knodell added that affordable utilities are an advantage. Fewer regulations would also be helpful. Dust thinks transportation is the greatest strength: highways and rivers. Senator Bean agreed with the river and highways as assets.
What Tangible Things Mo Has Done And What Should Communities Do?
 Knodell believes that safety nets are necessary. He added that transportation reliability, affordable housing, and affordable childcare were all essential. Senator Burger thinks the child tax credit needs to be expanded. He feels high schools should partner to teach trades, cutting back on legislation stopping them. Senator Bean believes that childcare is a huge need, and job fairs could help the workforce.
Ideas
 Attendees complained about slow or no internet. There was insufficient medical care. If one has internet, the healthcare providers will come because they rely on the internet. For medical professionals, childcare is essential. And that will cost more than most small communities can afford.
The panelists had differing ideas of how Missouri can make ends meet without the proposed income tax cuts.
There was talk about using AI for various jobs.
It was an informative workshop with many good ideas. To watch the forum, you can go here. We anticipate economic development in our state.
