Hall of fame basketball coach John Wooden once said, "Winning takes talent, to repeat takes character." Over the last seven years, Team South Carolina has notched many impressive wins, exhibiting a great deal of determination and character. In 2017 alone, our efforts led to remarkable economic growth in all corners of South Carolina, as we announced more than 125 economic development projects in nearly three-fourths of the state's 46 counties.
As these projects continue to progress and come to fruition, it'll be up to Team South Carolina to ensure that our companies have the tools they need to be successful. Undoubtedly, one of the most important resources businesses need in order to grow and succeed is a large pool of talented workers.
Over the last several years, we've done a good job of developing that talent. In fact, there are nearly 300,000 more people working in South Carolina today than there were in January 2011. We must continue to push forward, however. With one of the ten fastest-growing populations in the nation, South Carolina is ripe for even more workforce growth. To achieve that growth, collaboration between the many members of Team South Carolina will be key.
By utilizing tools, such as the Coordinating Council for Workforce Development, we'll be able to foster an even larger degree of cooperation. And, as a result, a more comprehensive, streamlined workforce strategy will be developed, allowing Team South Carolina to continue winning in 2018 and beyond.