Hundreds of business leaders met at the Convention Center for an economic report and to brainstorm new ideas. We're in an "economic upswing". That is the word out of this year's Economic Summit at the Conference Center in Johnstown. And this year is the biggest yet thanks, in part, to Congressman Murtha's appearance. But, they all got to hear the economic condition of our area.

According to Congressman Murtha, economic news is good and employment numbers are strong. We're redeveloping our roots in steel and coal mining while branching out in technology. The groundwork is being prepared for Conemaugh's high tech park bringing hundreds of jobs. Community leaders are looking overseas, already bringing the Spain-based windmill company, Gamesa, to Cambria County, where hundreds of more jobs are being offered.

Overall, business leaders say while blue-collar jobs once suffered, they're now growing. So, what's next for our area?

David Fyock is the Chair of Economic Summit. He tells Channel 6 News, "There are a number of things that are underway that are not far enough along to talk about."

Dan DeVos is the President of C.T.C. He says, "The fact that we are approaching a problem with finding employees is a long shot. Big difference from 20 years ago when we had such huge unemployment."

The problem, business leaders say, can sometimes be finding people with the skills future employers need. Blue-collar positions, once dormant, are back again. This time education plays a big part in training.

DeVos says, "Folks can't find that their skills meet, or are sufficient for the opportunity that exists."

Bill Polacek is the President of JWF Industries. He tells Channel 6 News, "With JWF Industries, we expect to have 50% growth in the next two years."

Johnstown Welding and Fabrication is a reflection of many businesses in our area. Leaders credit the growth to community leaders working together.