Business is no stranger to the Tri-Community Area of South Central Massachusetts. In addition to being centers of trade, government and culture, the towns of Southbridge, Sturbridge and Charlton are also centers of high technology. Since the middle 1800's, their heritage has been the manufacture of optical products, and the Tri-Community is now considered one of the world's major centers for fiberoptics technology. This area is also in close proximity to major New England cores of computer technology and biotechnology, which boast the best in state-of-the-art communications and high technology support systems.

Education in this region is comprehensive and stands with the full support of its participating communities. Our schools are committed to educational excellence at all levels, including vocational and private, from elementary through college. The teaching staff are highly qualified with educational preparation ranging from a B.A. to a Doctorate. The high school graduation rate compares favorably with the national average. Seventy percent of the region's graduates go on to college. The Tri-Community is close to the greatest number of prominent colleges and universities found anywhere in the nation. Diverse curricula at the schools insures that businesses have the privilege of recruiting from top graduates each May.

Support services and quality of life are unsurpassed in this region. The communities have successfully managed to maintain a high level of services, including two local hospitals and a rehab facility. Intelligent budgeting and operational practices have allowed upgrading of essential public infrastructures and the maintenance of full time police, fire and ambulance departments. With responsible management of resources, and support by an extensive network of commercial and retail establishments, the Tri-Community Area has kept an eye towards the future.

Tourism flourishes within the Tri-Community area and is a major factor in the local economy. The south central region of Massachusetts is, without a doubt, the heart of New England. Attractions offering insight into the area's historic lore include internationally famous Old Sturbridge Village, a working recreation of an 1830's New England farm community. Another favorite that draws faithful followers each year is the Brimfield Antique and Collectible Show.

Manufacturing has helped the Tri-Community become the successful area it is today. The businesses in these three towns, whether they are old and new, large or small, all share a common goal - to produce quality goods at an economical price. This devotion has given employees, as well as townspeople, a certain pride of being a part of it. Here, manufacturing plants of all types, including fiberoptics, lasers, tool & die, and cutlery all blend in with their surroundings

Open fields, wooded parks, and sparkling streams decorate these mainly rural towns, while white churches, village greens and traditional shops abound. The Tri-Community Area and surrounding countryside are classic New England. Recreational opportunities are numerous, with a variety of parks, athletic facilities and preservation areas. Quiet, friendly neighborhoods are interspersed with traditional New England farms and woodlands. Cultural, educational, and entertainment amenities of large cities are only a short drive away.

Versatility is a key component in the success of these towns. The Tri-Community Area can meet the requirements of modern businesses. As the hub of New England, the Tri-Community provides a wide array of facilities and services necessary for business, as well as easy access to all of the area's major cities.

Employment and housing costs in the area are relatively low by New England standards. Wage rates compare favorably to those found in metropolitan - areas. Personal and business services are typically provided by local companies with a commitment to quality and service at reasonable prices.