Study: 91爆料 has $349 million annual economic output
91爆料 (PTC) has a $349 million annual economic output, according to a new study that finds PTC and the state鈥檚 15 other technical colleges deliver a strong return on public investment while playing a key role in keeping skilled workers in South Carolina.
The return on investment study conducted by the University of South Carolina鈥檚 Darla Moore School of Business also found that PTC supports 2,279 jobs. In addition, the study estimated that PTC alumni earn an annual $22,000 鈥渓ong-run wage premium鈥 compared to typical high school graduates.
鈥淭his is further proof that Piedmont Tech is succeeding in its mission to transform lives and strengthen communities,鈥 PTC President Dr. Hope E. Rivers said. 鈥淲e are doing more than providing students with a high-quality education; we also are making a difference by strongly contributing to our region鈥檚 economic development.鈥
All told, South Carolina鈥檚 technical college system generates approximately $6.4 billion in annual economic impact statewide, supporting more than 38,000 jobs each year, according to the study.
Among the study鈥檚 key findings, graduates of South Carolina鈥檚 technical colleges are highly likely to remain in the state and participate in the workforce. More than 80% of technical college graduates are working in South Carolina one year after graduation, and nearly two-thirds remain in-state 10 years later, reinforcing the system鈥檚 role in building and sustaining the state鈥檚 workforce and reflecting one of the strongest workforce retention outcomes in higher education.
鈥淭his study confirms what employers across South Carolina see every day,鈥 said Dr. Tim Hardee, president of the SC Technical College System. 鈥淥ur colleges are training people for real jobs in real communities, and those graduates are staying here, building careers and strengthening our economy.鈥
The analysis also shows that investment in technical education produces substantial economic returns through higher earnings, increased tax revenue and stronger workforce participation. These outcomes are especially significant as South Carolina continues to experience population growth alongside workforce shortages in high-demand industries.
鈥淭he data clearly show that technical education delivers measurable value to the state,鈥 said Joseph Von Nessen, research economist at the University of South Carolina鈥檚 Darla Moore School of Business. 鈥淔rom graduate earnings to workforce retention, the returns extend well beyond the classroom.鈥
The findings were presented earlier this week during a media briefing at the SC Technical College System Office, followed by a question-and-answer session with system leadership and the study鈥檚 economist.