It's human nature to look back at year's-end and reflect on how we spent our time, what we accomplished and how successful we were over the course of the past 12 months.

Sometimes we have a feeling of accomplishment and sometimes we may feel like we didn't quite do all that we felt we should.When I reflect back on what we have done at CCEDC in 2016 I am inspired by all the positives. The new businesses that we have nurtured and welcomed into the county, the numerous ribbon cutting ceremonies and the many existing businesses that have expanded their operations with the commitment to remain in Carbon. I am amazed at how we as a county have grown and how CCEDC has grown alongside.We have made wonderful friends and created strong relationships that will enhance our communities.Now it's time to set goals for 2017.Business educationThe Business Education Partnership has two goals.• First is hosting a second Teacher in the Workforce workshop. Last year's workshop was a success with 22 teachers from our schools participating.They visited our local businesses then took what they learned back to their classrooms and created customized lesson plans for the students.This will help the students understand what will be expected from them when they join the workforce; what options are available to them for a successful career and what steps they need to take in order to prepare themselves for that career whether it is a four-year college degree, postsecondary trade school or a certificate of completion.• The second goal is to have another successful 5K Earth Day Hippie Run/Walk in Lehighton. The proceeds benefit our scholarships for all five school districts and CCTI. Graduating seniors who are going on to a postsecondary school in the business field and also volunteer to help the day of the event or participate in the Hippie Run/Walk are eligible to apply for a scholarship.CCEDC also administrates several local low interest loan funds for small businesses. The Small Business Expansion Loan Fund and the CCIDA Revolving Loan fund.Manufacturer's roundtableThis group's goal is to attract more attendees and build the reputation of manufacturing as an important career choice and one that offers good-paying jobs. We are working to meet with all the manufacturers in Carbon County and develop a close working relationship.The group meets every quarter at a different "host" company to discuss issues that are manufacturing specific and tour the host's facilities.Small-business loanNew this year is a Small Business Start-up Loan that will help new entrepreneurs who may not have the financial history required for a more conventional business loan to receive the funding they may need to get their idea off the ground.Our ongoing commitment to the community and businesses that we serve is the most important goal that we have. If you are as passionate about your business and Carbon County as we are, you owe it to yourself to contact us today and see how a chamber membership can benefit you.