By Nate Dillard   The Big Picture: Joby Aviation Inc. is set to revolutionize Dayton's aviation legacy with a $500 million investment to build electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft, commonly termed as "flying cars." This pioneering venture, near Dayton International Airport, aims to create 2,000 jobs by 2028, cementing Dayton's status in aviation history, according to Dayton Daily News.   Zoom In:   - Location & Investment: The facility, on a 140-acre site, ...Read More

By Nate Dillard   The Big Picture: A pioneering nonprofit in Dayton is set to transform a prototype lab into a comprehensive manufacturing hub. The Westside Makerspace, spearheaded by the Greater Dayton Union Cooperative Initiative, will be a 15,000-square-foot facility aimed at skills training and workforce development, according to the Dayton Business Journal.   Zoom In:   - Current State: The Makerspace is temporarily located at Central State University Dayton campus,...Read More

By Nate Dillard   The Big Picture: Accenture's analysis reveals that generative AI, like ChatGPT, will significantly alter work dynamics, impacting about 40% of working hours. This doesn't imply job cuts but a shift in how tasks are approached, with AI enhancing productivity and creativity, according to Bloomberg.   Zoom In: AI's role is seen as a multiplier of human capabilities, not a replacement. In customer service, for example, AI can combine with human effort to improve probl...Read More

By Nate Dillard   The Big Picture - Third Perk Coffeehouse's Transition: Juanita-Michelle Darden, the owner of Third Perk Coffeehouse & Wine Bar, has announced the closure of its downtown Dayton location on December 9. This decision marks a strategic shift towards expanding the business on Dayton's west side, according to the Dayton Business Journal.    Zoom In - Future Endeavors: In 2022, Darden purchased a building at 3907 W. Third Street for $100,000. Slated t...Read More

By Nate Dillard     The Big Picture: Dayton's economic landscape in 2024 is primarily focused on addressing workforce issues, with an emphasis on the scarcity of skilled labor. The region is strategizing ways to both attract and retain skilled workers, acknowledging the pivotal role of workforce development in its economic growth, according to the Dayton Daily News.   Zoom In: Julie Sullivan of the Dayton Development Coalition underscores the critical role of job creatio...Read More

By Nate Dillard   The Digital Divide in Dayton: Internet skills and access are essential for modern life, including job searching, education, and staying connected. However, in Dayton, many people, especially minorities, low-income individuals, and elderly residents, face a significant digital divide due to lack of internet access or digital literacy, according to this Brookings report.   Older Workers' Tech Learning Drive: Two-thirds of older workers in Dayton, particula...Read More