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 The Franklin Hampshire workforce development area is predominately rural. Twenty-nine of the towns in the area have populations less than 2000. It is the largest Workforce area in the state in geographical area, but the third or fourth smallest in population. The total population in 2000 was approximately 239,000, which is about 3.9% of the State’s total population. The total land area of the region is approximately 1,400 square miles or 17% of the State. The economic centers of the region are located in its largest communities: Northampton, Amherst, Easthampton, Greenfield, Montague, Orange and Athol. |
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In terms of jobs, the largest industry sectors in the Franklin Hampshire area (including government sector jobs) are Education Services, Health Care, and Social Assistance, with approximately 34% of all jobs. Manufacturing, once the major industry sector in the Franklin Hampshire region, has lost many jobs in the last 20 years, but manufacturing still makes up more than 11% of all employment. |
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The Franklin/Hampshire area has the highest level of public sector employment of any area in the State. Twenty-one percent of all jobs in the area are in Government, as compared to 13% statewide. |
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| The Franklin Hampshire Career Center and Regional Employment Board have strong and vital partnerships with area government, human service, business and non-profit organizations. Our community connections include grant contracting for delivery of services, work collaborations, event sponsorships and educational forums. |
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