Why Worcester, MA, is a Great Place to Launch Your Career
Ample opportunities, green spaces and a vibrant city continue to attract top talent worldwide to the Worcester region.
With its thriving economy and outstanding quality of life, Worcester is a draw for talent worldwide.
“Worcester is a city that has something for everyone — whatever stage of life you may be in, there is something for you here,” says Denise Lowsley, chief human resources officer at The Hanover Insurance Group Inc., a leading property and casualty carrier. “There is a feeling of inclusion that runs deep here and diversity that serves as a source of strength, enabling our city to draw and satisfy people of all ages, races, religions and walks of life.”
Compared to other East Coast markets, Worcester’s affordability makes it highly desirable for remote workers and trailing spouses. “We’re known for what we like to call ourselves — the ‘Goldilocks City’ — we are just the right size,” says Peter Dunn, chief development officer for the City of Worcester.
“We have the amenities and attractions you’d want out of a city, including arts, culture and entertainment. We also have great medical facilities. But Worcester is not so big that you get lost — you can connect with the right people, whether business leaders, civic leaders, etc. And we’re still somewhat affordable compared to larger cities.”
“In addition to those amenities and plentiful job opportunities, we have great recreational and open space amenities,” Dunn says. “Almost every neighborhood has parks and recreation. In addition, the city is within a short drive to the mountains or bodies of water for other outdoor opportunities.”
Eds & Meds
Among the major employers in the Worcester region are UMass Memorial Health, UMass Chan Medical School, Hanover Insurance Group, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, Worcester State University and the College of the Holy Cross.
“Our economic base is often characterized as ‘Eds and Meds,’ because our largest employers outside of colleges and universities are the health care sector and growing biotech,” Dunn says. “Because of this, we tend to be more resilient during economic downturns. We saw that in 2008 and expect to see that in future recessions.”
Worcester’s talent pool is highly educated because of its proximity to desirable colleges and universities. According to the Worcester Regional Chamber of Commerce’s most recent data, 84% of the workforce has more training than a high school education, and 30% have a bachelor’s degree or higher.
“We have a strong ecosystem around workforce development,” Dunn says. “The life sciences sector is not just about medicine and medical degrees, but other degrees, including engineering and bioengineering. Our colleges and universities are economic engines that support that sector here in the city.”
Plentiful Career Opportunities
Worcester has plenty of career opportunities since the region has a diverse roster of employers, including advanced manufacturing, life sciences, health care, logistics and transportation, financial services, nonprofits, healthcare and education.
The region has added more than 26,000 jobs since 2012.
“One of the huge advantages and assets the city of Worcester has is our geographic location. So this has been a great tool for attracting diverse industries, including manufacturing,” Dunn says.
“There is a feeling of momentum and progress within the city. For those considering moving to the area, now is a great time to take advantage of all Worcester has to offer — personally and professionally.”
Denise Lowsley, chief human resources officer, Hanover Insurance Group Inc.
Businesses thrive in Worcester thanks to its strong economy, diverse, skilled talent pool, accessibility and affordability.
“Worcester offers a vibrant economy in the heart of Massachusetts,” Lowsley says. “From biotech and health care to education, insurance, and financial services, there are many career opportunities in the region. There is a feeling of momentum and progress within the city. For those considering moving to the area, now is a great time to take advantage of all Worcester has to offer — personally and professionally.”
As one of the region’s largest employers, Lowsley says The Hanover Insurance Group values the vibrancy of the city and how that impacts their staff.
“Our employees are our greatest asset and a distinct competitive advantage,” Lowsley says.
“Worcester has been a big part of our success over the years, helping us build and retain one of the best teams in our business. Our employees have a strong connection to the city and love working and living here. They enjoy being in the second-largest city in New England, taking advantage of the many services and resources available while experiencing the charm and closeness often associated with smaller towns.”
Want to know more?
To learn more about the Worcester area, check out the latest edition of Livability Worcester, MA.
