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A handful of Central Massachusetts companies are utilizing workforce programs to recognize and support their true capabilities.

The fried-chicken trend first became a topic of popular discussion in 2019, the year Miami-based Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen debuted its fried chicken sandwich. Since then, the interest in fried chicken has only grown, bringing along a flood of chicken-focused fast-casual restaurants.

While restaurant news has always been part of WBJ’s coverage of the broader Central Massachusetts economy, this edition marks our first attempt at this more sophisticated, analytical approach to restaurant storytelling.

The Dog Edition captures the serious business issues associated with the rising rates of pet ownership and costs of petcare, while still injecting plenty of the fun & love associated with our furry friends.

Driven by a passion for their own pets, Steve and Greta Hager opened Dogtopia of North Worcester after relocating from Texas.

With a growing need to manufacture more products domestically and construct new housing, the manufacturing and construction industries need workers more than ever. Therefore, it’s disheartening to see the Trump Administration’s efforts to summarily close the national Job Corps program, including centers in Grafton and Devens.

Worcester City Council District 1 candidate Keith Linhares argues in favor of a land value tax, which taxes the value of land rather than buildings.

As more companies prioritize mental health and connection, pet-friendly workplaces are gaining traction among business leaders.

Sherman came to Edison in a roundabout way. Several years ago, a dog breeder Edison knew selected some furniture in an exchange the two loosely considered a possible deposit for a dog one day.

A surprising amount of otherwise stern-faced lawyers have pets, something that can change Nguyen’s opinions of even the most aggressive bulldog attorney, she said.