Dec. 20, 2021Edition

To help you navigate the ins and outs of the region's business community, WBJ has compiled a list for its Economic Forecast edition of 22 people who will have an outsized role in shaping those trends.

From technological innovations to changing the concept of traditional banking, the future of finance is going digital and breaking free from its previous brick and mortar confines.

The year has been one of recovery and resilience for schools like Clark University and Worcester Polytechnic Institute. Meanwhile, Becker College’s closure served as a stark reminder of the fate many smaller institutions may be facing. 

The coronavirus pandemic is a turning point in history, impacting society for generations to come.

The future of office and retail space is still uncertain as remote work and e-commerce maintain strong holds on the economy. One thing that seems certain: the housing market has perhaps never been hotter.

Every year, WBJ's editorial staff makes 10 predictions for news events in the coming year. Turns out, 2021 was almost impossible to predict, as we got three right.

Manufacturing is a $6.5-billion industry in Central Massachusetts, with multiple sectors experiencing upheaval in 2021. Here’s what is on tap for next year.

In more ways than one, diversity, equity, and inclusion in Central Massachusetts is a work in progress.

Biotechnology in Central Massachusetts is a rapidly growing industry, characterized as much by its big players as its nascent, up-and-coming companies. Together, players old and new stand to define what biotech in and around Worcester will look like for generations to come.

Every December, the WBJ Editorial Staff makes 10 predictions of news events and trends coming in the next year for the Central Massachusetts economy.

As Worcester commemorates its 300th anniversary next year, there will be much to celebrate. Clearly, the city is enjoying a renaissance. 

While we are focused on wrapping up 2021 business, while trying to focus on the spirit of the holiday season, all with an eye on January and beyond, it's that time of year when people are anticipating the annual ritual of New Year’s resolutions.

When young people are connected to employment and workforce experience, they learn about navigating the professional world and workplace dynamics, earn a paycheck and gain other valuable skills and perspectives, while employers develop the next generation of talent and provide an important pathway to economic opportunity and a stronger community.

Looking into the crystal ball for 2022 in WBJ’s annual Economic Forecast survey, our readers don’t have quite the same level of optimism for the upcoming year at they did heading into 2021