Workforce wishes

At the start of this new year, I do not have a list of resolutions but rather a list of workforce-related wishes that I hope will occur during 2007. These wishes are shared with you in no particular order but if successful will enable this region to have an improved labor pool in the short term and set the foundation for an even stronger workforce in the next few years. Here are my wishes:

* Better business understanding of generational workplace issues. As I continue my research on the four generations working together in 2007, I find more and more information pertaining to the critical shortage of workers, qualified or not, available to employers. The days of abundant, compliant workers are long gone. Replacing those workers are individuals who see their lives and interests as more important than work. They want freedom, fun and control over work schedules. They do no really care whether or not employers agree with their philosophy.

Because there are more positions available than there are workers to fill the positions, it is a buyers market. If a business will not bend to the potential employees' demands, they will move on to a business that will bend.

These attitudes demand understanding. They are not bad attitudes, but they are definitely different attitudes. A business is challenged when it hires people from this grouping and pairs them with other employees from more traditional thinking generations. By creatively working to understand the ramifications of these issues, businesses will be able to craft adjusted programs that will more easily satisfy employees of all generations who will then deliver the output employers need.

* More worker training. Once learning became life-long, it was only a matter of time before the need to constantly train existing workforces was required for a company to survive. Employers however, often took the position that training the current worker was either the responsibility of the worker or of some government agency such as Nevadaworks. Somehow these employers did not see a corporate responsibility to educate their workers.

Today, worker skill upgrades are the responsibility of all individuals and organizations. Business must put ever more funding into training. Education must update its models so students are taught current skill sets. Governments must understand the connection between training workers with tax dollars and ongoing economic expansion. And individuals must avail themselves of all training opportunities to improve their asset value to a company.

A pilot project addressing all of these needs has been proposed to the Nevada Legislature by the Reno/Sparks Chamber. If passed this year, this wish will begin to occur by this fall.

* Workforce network. As a result of the Target2010 initiative of the Economic Development Authority of Western Nevada, a consultant has been hired to coordinate all regional workforce information and services into a toolbox to be used by local employers to help them develop and grow a strong workforce. This toolbox will share information that employers will find very useful to address the chronic lack of employees in this area. Solutions exist and the goal of the Workforce Network is to share these solutions in a positive non-threatening manner for everyone's benefit. A late spring launch should bring early fall results.

* Recruit more workers. Our region is a mecca for individuals who appreciate our natural beauty, cultural amenities, outdoor lifestyle and easy access to government business leaders. We see these people throughout the year as they pass through and wish them enjoyment while here. Now, we must let them know of the plethora of jobs available so they can consider the benefits of living here year round rather than just visiting whenever. Businesses cannot assume that outsiders know of their job openings just because they might be posted on a website. This area must switch from a passive to an aggressive campaign to inform all visitors and locals of the many employment opportunities available in northern Nevada.

Recruiting more individuals to move here will help sustain the economic growth we all enjoy. These individuals will help fill critical shortages in many health and social fields as well as in high-tech and service positions. Once here, some of these individuals will become entrepreneurs who will hire new employees while offering services and products we desire.

This wish can be implemented immediately. Tell family and friends in other areas of the country of our work opportunities and challenges. Let them know that this is a good place to work and that we welcome them. Remind them to also bring a friend.

* Regional cooperation. This area will only succeed by working together to solve common issues. Workforce training does not limit itself to one community or one area. It is not just high-tech or service or hospitality. It is every profession and occupation. We are in this together not alone. We are a region.

A regional concept to solve training issues is well under way and will gain speed throughout the year. We have a strong university and community college asset here that needs to be better understood and utilized by business. Our K-12 education system is facing challenges that are being solved daily. Let's focus on the solutions, not just the problems. Governmental agencies have adapted and changed to address today's workforce needs and have a story to share. Economic development agencies know that business look at our area as one unit and are working together to promote that oneness. And pushing all of this cooperation are business led organizations that understand the need for all to succeed.

Five wishes for this year. Not too many, not too hard, with results that are desired. I look forward to offering Nevadaworks' skill and expertise in achieving these wishes. Our community has a strong workforce and by the end of this year, it will be even better because wishes do come true!

Tom Fitzgerald is chief executive officer of Nevadaworks.