CHARLESTON, W.Va. — The new secretary of the West Virginia Department of Commerce says he’s focused on increasing the state’s workforce.
James Bailey, who has been a top lawyer in the executive and legislative branches of state government, was named to job last week by Gov. Jim Justice.
Bailey said on a recent MetroNews “Talkline” interview a number of economic development announcement, including the latest by Commercial Metals Company to build a metals recycling plant in Berkeley County and employ 230 people, is encouraging, but the state needs the workers to fill those jobs especially when projects move swiftly.
“These days when you get an announcement from Gov. Justice, within no time we’re breaking ground and that’s what’s really exciting to see,” Bailey said.
West Virginia is a great place to do business because state leaders make themselves available to get the work done, he said.
“At the drop of a hat, we’re here and we’re available. We’re going to do everything we can to get them here because we know we have a lot to offer and that once they get here, they’re going to love it,” Bailey said.
How is West Virginia continuing to put its best foot forward to bring in new economic developments? James Bailey, Secretary of the West Virginia Department of Commerce, provides his insight to @HoppyKercheval. WATCH: https://t.co/yCFQ3nm85Y pic.twitter.com/W0nW1awp8z
— MetroNews (@WVMetroNews) December 8, 2022
Bailey said figuring out which businesses are viable depends on different prospects. He said he has a good team to make that call.
“We have a ton of assets at our hands to do that vetting process and to learn whether or not we’re dealing with something that’s real and something that will benefit our state,” he said.
Bailey said he plans to work with WorkForce West Virginia to continue to grow the state’s workforce participation rate.
Previously, Bailey served as acting secretary of the Commerce department since July 2022, following the retirement of Ed Gaunch. He was the deputy secretary before that. At the same time, he also served as general counsel for the departments of Commerce, Tourism, and Economic Development until his appointment as acting secretary.
Bailey previously served as senior counsel for policy and legislation for Gov. Justice. He also served as counsel to the president of the West Virginia Senate, committee counsel to the State Senate and as an assistant prosecuting attorney in Kanawha County.
The Department of Commerce includes: Division of Forestry, Division of Labor, Division of Natural Resources, Geological & Economic Survey, Office of Miners’ Health, Safety and Training, WorkForce WV, and The Division of Rehabilitation Services.
