In December, state business, workforce, and education leaders convened for the inaugural Statewide Workforce Talent Team (SWATT) meeting in Kentucky, an initiative aimed at enhancing workforce development across the Commonwealth. The event attracted over 250 participants, including representatives from the Kentucky Chamber of Commerce, the Kentucky Economic Development Cabinet, the Kentucky Education and Labor Cabinet, the Kentucky Department of Education, the Kentucky Community and Technical College System (KCTCS), and the Kentucky Council on Postsecondary Education (CPE). This collaborative effort signals a strong commitment to addressing workforce needs, bolstering businesses, and stimulating economic growth in the state.
Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear expressed his support for this pioneering initiative during his opening remarks. He acknowledged the significance of the shift in workforce training paradigms, stating, “The reason we’re here is because workforce training has shifted.” He pointed out the necessity of this streamlined approach to tackle the challenges posed by Kentucky’s accelerating economic growth and to meet the talent demands of local businesses.
The purpose of the SWATT initiative was further explained by Kentucky Education and Labor Cabinet Secretary Jamie Link, who highlighted the collaborative nature of this undertaking. “This could be a generational impact on what we do over the coming months and year,” Link remarked, underscoring the importance of developing innovative workforce strategies that cater to the diverse industries and regions within the state.
Kentucky Chamber Foundation Senior Vice President Beth Davisson, Secretary Link, Kentucky Chamber President and CEO Ashli Watts, and Dr. Ryan Quarles, president of KCTCS, elaborated on SWATT's goals, which focus on simplifying workforce systems and providing a seamless experience for businesses in search of talent solutions. Watts addressed the importance of the Chamber as a connecting entity, stating that it aims to meet businesses where they are and address their foremost concerns regarding workforce issues.
A national perspective on workforce trends was provided by leaders from Deloitte, including Jordan Harris, Kyle Forrest, and Lara Wigmore. They discussed five significant trends impacting the workforce on both national and global scales: a shrinking workforce, increased retirements among older generations, immigration, a mismatch between education and job demand, and the role of technology. Forrest advised that addressing these demographic challenges collectively, rather than individually, is crucial for effective resolution.
Keynote speaker Marcie Merriman, cultural insights and customer strategy leader at Ernst & Young Americas, noted the unprecedented pace of societal changes over the past three decades. She projected that by 2030, millennials, Gen Z, and Generation Alpha will constitute 75% of the workforce, which will significantly influence workplace dynamics and expectations.
A panel comprised of employers from various industries, including Jessie Schook of KCTCS, Dylon Baker of Appalachian Regional Healthcare, Susan Brewer of Gray Construction, and Ruth Moore of Bardstown Bourbon Company, shared insights regarding their challenges in engaging talent. Brewer highlighted the value of partnerships such as the Kentucky Chamber Foundation's Bus-to-Business® and Fair Chance Academy programs, which facilitate connections with educators and students. Baker called attention to the need for clearer access to workforce resources and greater education surrounding these opportunities, especially for smaller businesses that may lack the resources of larger employers.
Kentucky Chamber Foundation Workforce Center Executive Director LaKisha Miller, Commissioner Mike Yoder of the Department of Workforce Development, and Beth Kuhn of Stonegate Strategies articulated strategies designed to align regional resources with statewide objectives and encourage collaboration. The breakout sessions allowed attendees to share best practices and establish unified goals for their regions, including improved services and streamlined communication between employers and educational institutions.
The SWATT Convening represents a significant milestone in unifying business, education, and workforce development efforts in Kentucky, aiming to reduce barriers and provide meaningful support to the businesses and communities within the Commonwealth. As this initiative evolves, stakeholders will continue to monitor its progress and impact on workforce development in the region. Further updates on the SWATT efforts will be detailed by The Bottom Line.
Source: Noah Wire Services