Maine employees have a well-earned reputation for excellence. They're loyal, have a top-notch work ethic, and a strong commitment to high-quality performance. Many Maine employers consider Maine's workforce their greatest asset:

"The benefits of doing business in Maine are numerous. First and foremost is the strong work ethic and integrity found in the workforce."




"It was our desire to remain and expand in Lewiston because of our long-term commitment to the area and because of the strong workforce here. Our employment base is important to us, and we've had nothing but positive results from local employees. We believe Maine has the technical expertise we need to grow our company."




Maine's workforce is also highly skilled. A 2002 study by the University of Southern Maine's Center for Business and Economic Research found that 95 percent of employee respondents held high school or postsecondary degrees, and two-thirds were proficient or advanced in computer skills. The study also showed that Maine employers could easily and inexpensively find employees with required skills. The report concluded that both Maine businesses and workers are dedicated to improving and expanding training, skills, and education in order to stay on the cutting-edge of today's knowledge-based economy.

Maine businesses can receive workforce training assistance through the Governor's Training Initiative, which provides financial assistance to support job creation, retention, and upgrading by directly linking Maine's education and training resources to the needs of employers.

Through its Maine Quality Centers program, the State partners with its seven community colleges to recruit, screen and train potential employees for companies that create new jobs in Maine – at no cost to either the employer or the trainee.