The East Tennessee labor force has turnover and absenteeism rates that are among the very lowest in the country. Workers here are acknowledged for their high productivity and excellent work attitudes. East Tennessee has a low percentage of workers in unions, as compared to the rest of the nation. Electricity for East Tennessee comes from the Tennessee Valley Authority, the largest power system in the United States. Its generating capabilities consist of a diversified mix of nuclear, coal-fired, and hydroelectric plants.
Electric power is provided to industry at competitive costs.
Natural gas is available throughout the area and water is in unlimited supply. Tellico has its own training center. Through Quality have achieved national recognition. In addition, East Tennessee is home to more than a dozen other private and public colleges.