The 495/MetroWest Employer Survey allows economic development advocates in the area to present data to lawmakers and state officials to promote policy changes to economically benefit the Interstate-495 corridor.

 MetroWest and Milford area companies are again invited to share elements affecting their businesses through the upcoming 495/MetroWest Employer Survey.

The survey – which launched today– is being conducted by the 495/MetroWest Partnership, Framingham State University and the MetroWest and Milford Daily News.

Michael Harrison, chairman of the Marketing Department in the College of Business at Framingham State, said the survey was created six years ago to collect economic data in the MetroWest and Milford area and gauge employers’ confidence in the area’s business climate. The regions have a strong contribution to both the national and global economy, said Harrison.

“We looked at this as an opportunity,” he said.

The survey allows economic development advocates in the area to present data to lawmakers and state officials to promote policy changes to economically benefit the Interstate-495 corridor. Data from the survey is also reviewed by members of the Gov. Charlie Baker’s administration, said Harrison.
“A lot of this data is being carried forward to Beacon Hill,” he said.It also allows local businesses to share their successes and concerns. 

“They have a voice,” said Harrison.

The 15- to 18-question survey asks employers their outlook for the region, if they are planning to expand operations and their workforce, what transportation challenges employees face and if there is a need for more workforce housing. The survey questions typically do not change from year to year, but some questions are tweaked, said Harrison.

Last year, a question was added on how tariffs would affect companies. The results were mixed as 25 percent said tariffs would hurt their business, 54 percent said it would not and a small percentage responded tariffs would be positive.

The 2018 survey found regional employers expected to see increasing profits and the need to hire more employees. More than 65 percent of last year’s respondents believed the economy will improve slightly or significantly in the coming year showing stable optimism for the region. 

Employers expected revenue to increase, with 77 percent forecasting between 1 percent and 20 percent growth.

Fifty-six percent of respondents said they plan to hire additional staff, up from 29 percent in 2013.

Many companies cited the top challenge in the region is finding skilled labor, however, several others responded the highly skilled workforce in the area is a top draw.

“It’s an interesting dynamic,” said Harrison.

Last year, 155 companies responded. Several years ago, 390 companies responded, but participation dropped between 2012 and 2016 because the survey was administered in the summer. Participation has increased in recent years.

“We’re seeing more people interested in the survey,” said Jeremy Thompson, policy manager at the 495/MetroWest Partnership – a Westborough-based public-private association that advocates for economic development, transportation and a skilled workforce in the region.

The survey will be open until Nov. 3.  CLICK HERE for survey